Mining Districts of Utah (OFR-695)

By: Ken Krahulec

Utah Geological Survey Report M-695, "Mining Districts of Utah," published in 2018 by Ken Krahulec, provides a comprehensive overview of the state's rich mining history and resources. The report, accompanied by a detailed map (shown in the image), explores the numerous mining districts scattered across Utah, highlighting their locations, extracted metals, and economic significance. Districts such as Bingham Canyon, renowned for its copper and molybdenum deposits, Park City, famous for silver, lead, and zinc, and Tintic, known for gold, silver, and lead, are likely featured prominently. The report delves into the geological provinces that host these districts, including the Basin and Range, Middle Rocky Mountains, and Colorado Plateau, which are all labeled on the map. It offers valuable insights into the state's complex geological formations and the processes that led to the concentration of valuable minerals.

The accompanying map visually represents the distribution of these mining districts, using color codes to indicate the estimated total historical production value for each. These values, ranging from "No Production" to ">$1,000,000,000," are calculated based on average metal prices (e.g., copper at $750, lead at $26/lb, zinc at $15,000, gold at $1,100) and the total estimated output of each district. This data-driven approach allows for a comprehensive assessment of the economic impact of mining in Utah. The report complements this visual data with detailed narratives about the discovery, development, and historical output of each district, offering valuable insights into the state's mining heritage. It serves as a crucial resource for understanding the past and present contributions of mining to Utah's economy and development.

Report M-695, with its 191 pages, is a substantial document providing a wealth of information. The report is organized by geologic province, with mining districts color-coded by their estimated total historical production value. This value is calculated by multiplying the total number of metals produced by their estimated average price. The map, at a scale of 1:5,000,000, includes a table outlining the production value ranges. The report provides a detailed explanation of the methodology used for these calculations, as well as a comprehensive overview of each district's geological setting, mineralogy, and historical significance. It is an invaluable resource for geologists, historians, and anyone interested in Utah's mining legacy. The report format likely includes detailed descriptions of each mining district, historical production data, geological maps and cross-sections, and potentially, information on current mining operations and future potential.

Other Information:
Published: 2018
Pages: 191
Plates: 1
Scale: 1:1,000,000
Location: Utah
Media Type: Paper Publication