Geologic maps show the types, ages, and distribution of rocks or sediment in a given area. As such, geologic maps provide fundamental data for use in the exploration for oil and gas, industrial and construction minerals, and ground-water resources. The maps also aid in the planning and development of an area by identifying potential geologic hazards. The Geological Survey of Alabama is committed to producing new geologic maps in areas where basic geologic data are needed to support industrial and urban development. In order to accomplish this goal, the Survey participates in the STATEMAP component of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program. The purpose of the Program is to produce new, detailed geologic maps of areas deemed critical to the state, primarily where rapid urban and industrial growth is occurring. Through STATEMAP, The Geological Survey of Alabama has completed and published more than 30 new geologic maps at the 7.5-minute (1:24,000) scale, and several more are in progress. The maps are color plots and are accompanied by explanations and booklets summarizing the geology of the quadrangles. The maps are available for purchase from the Publications Sales office. In addition, several of the most recently published maps and associated explanations have been posted on the Alabama Metadata Portal in PDF format. For an historical summary of Geological Survey of Alabama's participation in the STATEMAP program, click here. In 2006, the Geologic Survey of Alabama released Special Map 220A, Geologic Map of Alabama, Digital Version 1.0. The map is derived from Special Map 220, Geologic Map of Alabama, published on paper at a scale of 1:250,000 in 1988. Special Map 220A is available on CD-ROM at no cost from the Publications Sales Office. It is also available for inspection and downloading through the Alabama Metadata Portal. For more information on the Geologic Mapping Program, contact Ed Osborne via email or by phone at (205) 247-3540.