News Release 509

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES UNLEASHES
POWERFUL TOOL THAT AIDS IN PLANNING PROCESS

Volume 34-509

Contact: Hylan Beydler

(For immediate release)

573-368-2118

ROLLA, MO, NOV. 14, 2006 - It is often said that information is power, and the second edition of the Missouri Environmental Geology Atlas CD-ROM, or MEGA 2007, puts a significant amount of power at users' fingertips.

The MEGA 2007 CD-ROM is a collection of interactive computer maps that allows users access to more than 30 statewide geographic information system (GIS) data layers, all from their computer desktops. Significant improvements and additions have been made since MEGA's debut in 2003. New data layers have been added and many of the existing data layers updated.

Because the state has been collecting geologic data since the mid-1800s, vast amounts of data are available. This information enables users to apply earth science data to real-world issues. Many of the data layers allow for better decisions related to the use and protection of our state's water. Landowners, developers, engineers, geologists, planners, consultants, first responders, researchers, teachers and students will find this tool particularly helpful.

Rick Elgin, a licensed geologist with Midwest Environmental Consultants in Jefferson City, often uses MEGA to identify geologic features. When fuel leaked from an underground tank and contaminated area groundwater wells, Elgin used data from MEGA to identify the area's geologic features and evaluate how the local aquifers are being used. This information helped focus exploration and cleanup efforts in a more cost-effective manner.

"The data in MEGA is one of several tools we use when contacted by clients seeking potential contamination to a site," Elgin said. "We welcome the additional layers offered in MEGA 2007."

Among the additions is a water table map showing uppermost groundwater elevations, giving users an idea of what direction the groundwater is moving. Other new data layers include drill areas depicting requirements for well construction area boundaries and a mine and mineral occurrence layer. A significant addition to the existing well log layer is a simplified well log that lists various materials encountered during drilling. Missouri House and Senate district boundaries are also part of the collection. Additional data layers include: bedrock geology, well and spring locations, dyetrace data, public land survey system information, geologic structures, sinkhole locations, alluvial floodplains, abandoned wells, certified wells, dye traces, surficial materials, stream hydrology and the U.S. Public Land Survey System. This CD-ROM also provides public domain information such as streams, lakes, major roads, urban areas and county boundaries.

"I think users of the first version of MEGA (2003) will be very impressed with the new data layers and improvements included with this new edition (MEGA 2007)," said Mimi Garstang, state geologist and director of the Department of Natural Resources' Division of Geology and Land Survey. "I am excited about getting more information in the hands of decision-makers across the state. It will help us all do our jobs better."

Herb Turner, a middle school science teacher in Waynesville, appreciates that the program is designed for use by the general public. Students currently are using MEGA to create maps for the city council that will combine recreational use areas with environmental information.

"This tool allows us to share so much information with the community," Turner said. "MEGA is especially helpful because the data is compiled in a common format and in one place. We don't have to do hard searches on the Internet for the data or import."

MEGA 2007 can be purchased for $45 through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Division of Geology and Land Survey. To order a copy, contact the division's publications desk at 573-368-2125 or 800-361-4827, or order online at www.dnr.mo.gov/geology/adm/publications/MapsOrder.htm.

For news releases on the Web, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/newsrel. For a complete listing of the department's upcoming meetings, hearings and events, visit the department's online calendar at www.dnr.mo.gov/calendar/search.do.

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