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Division of Geology and Land Survey

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Ha Ha Tonka State Park and surrounding area.

Photo circa 1970s. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Celebrating 160 years of service to Missourians

One hundred sixty years is not a very long time when speaking in geologic terms. However, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Geological Survey is observing this noteworthy milestone this year. Since 1853, the Missouri Geological Survey has provided reliable scientific information to describe and understand Missouri's wealth of natural resources.

Plan to visit our Edward L. Clark Museum of Missouri Geology this year to learn about the geology of Missouri and about contributions staff members have made to both the environmental and economic vitality of Missouri. Read more.

Earth Science Week is October 13-19, 2013

Make plans to participate and be sure to visit us during the week. “Mapping Our World,” the theme of Earth Science Week 2013, will boost awareness about the many exciting uses of maps and mapping technologies in the geosciences. We also will recognize National Fossil Day Wednesday, Oct. 16 and Geologic Map Day Friday, Oct. 18, 2013 with special activities and exhibits in our Edward L. Clark Museum of Missouri Geology. There are a number of national Art and Photo Contests in which you can nominate our National Fossil and competitions for Earth Science Week. Learn more.

Sinkhole Collapse

Sinkholes are depressed or collapsed areas formed by dissolution of carbonate bedrock or collapse of underlying caves. They range in size from several square yards to hundreds of acres and may be very shallow or hundreds of feet deep. Sinkholes are part of what is called “karst” topography, which also includes caves, spring and losing streams. We provide assistance to the citizens of Missouri by evaluating the causes and impacts of sinkhole formation and collapse. Geologists perform geologic and hydrologic evaluation to determine if collapse is attributed to a natural karst feature or is associated with the failure of a man-made feature. Learn more.