Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park

Kansas Geological Survey

Our purpose: To conduct and provide objective and integrative geoscience research, with emphasis on energy, mineral resources, geohazards, and water resources across the state.

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

KGS Report Assesses Health of the High Plains Aquifer

A new publication from the Kansas Geological Survey assesses current conditions and trends in water levels and groundwater usage in the High Plains aquifer, the state’s most economically important groundwater resource.

KGS Scientist, Colleagues Receive $1.16 Million NSF Grant

A collaboration of scientists from six organizations, including the KGS, has received a $1.16 million grant from the National Science Foundation to implement and study the effects of a field safety, anti-harassment, and bystander intervention training certificate program.

In New Space Race, KGS Scientists Propose Geoarchaeology Can Aid in Preserving Space Heritage

Two KGS scientists and their colleagues have proposed a new scientific subfield: planetary geoarchaeology, the study of how cultural and natural processes on Earth’s moon, on Mars, and across the solar system may be altering, preserving, or destroying the material record of space exploration.

KU Scientist Receives Honorary Membership Award from International Organization

Evan K. Franseen is the recipient of the 2023 Honorary Membership Award from SEPM, the Society for Sedimentary Geology, for “excellence in professional achievement and extraordinary service to the Society.”

Coming Events

November 30: Rocks N Rolls Colloquium

Join us at noon in Hambleton Auditorium at the KGS for this presentation by Sarah Morton, geophysicist for the Bureau of Reclamation and a KGS/KU Alum.

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