Earth MRI First Five Years Accomplishments

Earth MRI: The First Five Years

The Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI) is modernizing the Nation’s mapping and geoscience data, benefitting regions, states and local communities.

By the Numbers:

40 States and Territories partnered with Earth MRI

3 times more of the Nation covered by high-quality geophysical surveys

$21.5 million directly to States for geologic and geochemical mapping

$129 million invested in data acquisition across the Nation

Stories:

Transforming Knowledge of Mineral Resource Potential

Earth MRI geophysical and geochemical data are providing a better understanding of mineral resources in below-ground deposits and mine wastes across the Nation, including of rare earth element resources in the Hicks Dome area of Illinois and Kentucky.

Revealing Hidden Hazards

Geophysical data collected in South Carolina have provided details about deep fault structures in the state that have caused earthquakes in the past. These data are also being used to map heavy mineral sands and soils in the southeast and assess their resource potential.

Strengthening Local Geoscience

Earth MRI is helping to reinvigorate State geologic surveys like Michigan’s, which has been able to newly invest in building a skilled geoscience workforce, forge new state and regional partnerships, and conduct vital research on the state’s mineral and other geologic resources.

Informing Resource Management

States like Nevada are using Earth MRI data to holistically understand the state’s natural resources, including the state’s potential for critical minerals like lithium, geothermal energy potential, and groundwater and soil qualities.

A Tool for Rebuilding and Resiliency

After the destruction of Hurricane Fiona, Earth MRI geophysical surveys are helping Puerto Rico identify future landslide threats and find local geologic materials that could be used to rebuild and strengthen infrastructure.

Timeline:

2019

The USGS Mineral Resources Program launches Earth MRI. Data collection begins.

2020

Earth MRI develops a national map of areas with critical mineral potential to guide data collection.

2021

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $320 M in Earth MRI over five years, accelerating data collection.

2022

Earth MRI incorporates a focus on mine wastes and new methods including hyperspectral mapping.

2023

Earth MRI flies its first geophysical surveys focused on landslide potential and construction materials.