Reconnaissance geochemistry of stream sediments from three areas near Juneau, Alaska

Results of a preliminary inquiry into background metal content of stream sediments near Juneau, Alaska, and whether this background is related to geologic terrane indicate that stream sediments derived chiefly from metamorphic rocks show significantly higher modal nickel, zinc, and arsenic than do sediments derived mainly from sedimentary or igneous rocks. Metal-content data that are closely related to areal geology will be required before systematic geochemical prospecting by stream-sediment sampling in southeast Alaska will be very effective.