Less than one-third of the U.S. is mapped at the level of detail necessary to make informed planning decisions on a local scale concerning natural resources, natural hazards, infrastructure planning, and environmental stewardship. In the Great Lakes region, the Great Lakes Geologic Mapping Coalition (GLGMC), a group including U.S. and Canadian state and provincial geological surveys, is producing detailed 3D geologic maps that are helping to provide decision-relevant information to Great Lakes state communities. Due to similar regional geology, these state surveys can work together, sharing their expertise and resources so that each can better address geologic issues in their area. Working with the communities, the GLGMC provides and makes maps that solve problems such as groundwater contamination and resource development.
The Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS) is the official repository for the records of existing wells that have been drilled in the state of Illinois. With records for over 700,000 wells, the interactive water wells map allows users to explore a range of information including the location, depth, and bedrock topography for all recorded wells in Illinois. Data for water and related wells exists for private water wells, engineering borings, and stratigraphic borings.