Geoconservation Programs

 
A young man in green pullover and tan ball cap stands with a tripod and camera looking toward the towering El Capitan in the distance.
Geoscientists-in-the-Parks participant, Nikita Avdievitch, conducting a “structure from motion” 3D photogrammetry survey of the 2017 El Capitan rockfalls from the Yosemite Valley floor, Yosemite National Park, California. NPS photo.

Introduction

The National Park Service works to conserve geologic resources and related visitor experiences as critical elements of overall natural resources stewardship. In nature, living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components of the ecosystem are inextricably linked, so NPS goals for conserving natural systems require attention to maintaining both biodiversity and geodiversity.

Earth scientists from many disciplines work to improve the Park Service's ability to gather, analyze, and use geoscience information. Geologic resources management is part of each park's natural resource activities, including: Inventory and Monitoring, Research, Education and Outreach, Resource Protection, Mitigation and Restoration, and Planning and Permits.

 

Inventory & Monitoring

abandoned mine structure

Abandoned Mineral Lands Inventory

geologist examining a rock out crop

Geologic Resources Inventory

Geology enthusiasts can download FREE park geologic maps and park-specific geology reports prepared by the NPS Geologic Resources Inventory.

person in snow survey pit

Geological Monitoring

Handbook for Monitoring Dynamic Geologic Processes

Paleontological Resource Inventory

soil scientist examining a soil profile

Soil Resources Inventory

4 people sitting on a rock outcrop in the desert

Stratotype Inventory

 
 

Education & Outreach

visitor in large lighted cave

Cave and Karst Outreach Materials

ranger talking to group of visitors outdoors

Earth Science Week

person examining rocks with a magnifying lens

Geologic Concepts

A geology refresher to help with understanding park landscapes and Earth systems.

ranger and youth examining rocks in gravel bar

Geoscience Teaching Resources

Geology lesson plans and classroom materials from America's largest classrooms.

touch table activity at denver museum

National Fossil Day

ranger giving a fossil talk

Paleontology Outreach Materials

 
 
 

Planning & Permits

people visiting a geologic site

Geologic Planning

school group arriving at a park

Permits

Last updated: December 18, 2024

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