Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park

Kansas Geological Survey

Advancing Science, Serving Kansas

Research Programs

KGS scientist conducting field work

Water Resources and Geohydrology

Studying aquifers, rivers, and streams to provide a scientific foundation for water management.
Drill rig in Barber County

Energy

Exploring oil and gas resources, carbon and hydrogen storage, and other energy initiatives.
Bungee-assisted weight drop attached to Bobcat Toolcat.

Geophysics and Hazards

Monitoring earthquakes, developing seismic techniques, and supporting field-based research.

Research Programs

Scientist examining a rock outcrop

Geology and Mineral Resources

Studying and mapping the geologic resources of the state.
Scientists excavating bison bones

Geoarchaeology

Searching for evidence of the earliest people to inhabit the Central Great Plains.

KGS sign

About the KGS

Our mission, positions available, advisory committees, and frequently asked questions.

Outreach, Education, and Publications

Little Jerusalem hoodoo

Educational Resources

Learn about the geology of Kansas featuring geologic sites, classroom activities, and more
Covers of KGS publications

Publications

Books and maps on the geology, minerals, and natural resources of the state.
The KGS Data Resources Library

Archives and Libraries

Kansas Geologic Sample Repository, Data Resources Library, and KGS Drill Core Library.

KGS in the News

“Surficial Geology of Lincoln County, Kansas” contains the map as well as a cross section and an illustrated stratigraphic column.

KGS map wins award at professional conference

A new geologic map of Lincoln County received second place in the "Thematic Map" category at the largest international conference dedicated to geographic information system technology.
Map showing flight lines for airborne survey of northwest Kansas

Airborne Survey of Northwest Kansas Aquifer Completed Successfully

The Kansas Geological Survey and its research partners recently completed an airborne survey in northwest Kansas that will allow scientists to create a 3-D image of the High Plains aquifer in that area at a level of detail that has not previously been possible.
Crew members extract core from Lyon County well.

KGS Assesses Potential for Critical Minerals in Eastern Kansas

The KGS, in collaboration with industry partners, recently drilled and cored a well in Lyon County to evaluate layers of underground rock that may be enriched in critical minerals — non-fuel minerals and elements that are vital to electronics and other advanced technologies.
Helicopter towing scientific equipment

Airborne Electromagnetic Survey of Aquifer Conditions in Northwestern Kansas

Beginning in late May and continuing for much of June, residents of northwest Kansas may see a low-flying helicopter towing a large hexagonal frame, part of a project to map groundwater conditions in the Ogallala aquifer in that part of the state.

Coming Events

August 21: Geology 101-The Present is the Key to the Past

Join us on August 21 at 1 pm and learn how geologists figure out the past using clues from the present. This is a live stream event that is free to the public.

September 4: Geology 101-Dating the Rocks

Join us on September 4 at 1 pm and learn how geologists determine the age and time period of rocks using clues from the layers. This is a live stream event that is free to the public.

September 7: OK Kids Day at Shawnee North Community Park

We'll be at Shawnee North Community Park with hands on activities. You'll also be able to bring home a free rock/mineral!

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