News Release, Kansas Geological Survey, Sept. 5, 1996
The map, based on field work by Tulsa geologist Allan Bennison, depicts the age and type of rocks at the earth's surface. The map also shows roads, towns, rivers and ponds, railroads, and other features.
Because they show the type of bedrock likely to be encountered in a given location, geologic maps are useful in construction, in searching for water and mineral deposits, and in a variety of engineering and environmental uses.
According to Bennison, most of Montgomery County is covered by limestones, sandstones, and shales deposited during the Pennsylvanian Period, about 300 million years ago. Sands and gravels deposited during the past few million years are commonly found near and along the county's streams and rivers.
The map also shows geologic features, such as faults and folds in surface rock formations.
"Most of the sedimentary rocks in Montgomery County were deposited as sea levels rose and fell during the Pennsylvanian Period, and were later tilted by earth movements," said Bennison. "Those Pennsylvanian rocks also produced the oil and gas deposits that are common in the area today."
The map is drawn at a scale of 1:50,000, so that one inch on the map equals about 3/4 mile of actual distance. The full-color map measures about 40 inches by 40 inches. It includes a depiction of two cross sections across the county, which show the appearance of underground rock layers, and a brief discussion of the county's geology.
The new map updates a geologic map of Montgomery County done in 1974. It is one in a series of new geologic maps being produced by the Survey.
Copies of the new are available from the Kansas Geological Survey, 1930 Constant Ave., Lawrence, KS 66047 (or phone 785-864-3965). The cost is $15.00, plus $5.00 for handling. Kansas residents should add 6.9% sales tax.