Regional Geochemical Results from the Analyses of Rock, Soil, and Vegetation Samples-Big Delta B-2 Quadrangle, Alaska

The USGS reports the chemical analyses for rocks, soil, soil water, and
vegetation, collected from throughout the Big Delta B-2 quadrangle in
east-central Alaska, for the period 1998-2002. This study focused on the
integration of geology and bedrock geochemistry with the geochemistry and
biogeochemistry of soil and vegetation. The study objectives were the
characterization of the regional tectonic setting, creation of a quadrangle
geologic map, understanding the effect of bedrock geology on the geochemical
landscape signatures, and the establishment of estimations of predevelopment
geochemical baseline concentrations for a variety of matrices. The impetus for
this work was the discovery in 1996 of the Pogo lode gold deposit in the
northwest corner of the quadrangle, the subsequent increase in mineral
exploration, and the overall mineral-occurrence importance to the State and of
the Yukon-Tanana Upland (Internal Highlands Ecoregion). Geochemical data for
the various rock units, soil horizons, grayleaf willow, green alder, feather
moss, and soil-water extracts are given along with the analytical methodology
used. The data are being released at this time with minimal interpretation.

[Summary provided by the USGS.]