Iowa's Geology
Iowa’s bedrock, glacial deposits and soils are the rich legacy of a billion years of earth history. They contain valuable minerals, energy resources, and ample supplies of groundwater. They also host areas of unstable ground, unforeseen risks for construction and development, and regions vulnerable to groundwater and ecosystem degradation. These buried treasures and hazards are not uniformly distributed across the state, and significant information of the states geology is needed to develop resources and avoid hazards. As such, knowledge of Iowa’s geology is a key component for resilient communities, economic development, and a healthy environment for Iowa’s citizens.

Iowa's bedrock aquifer systems as they exist across Iowa.

Questions? Contact Bob Libra, State Geologist of Iowa:, 319-430-2954

Geologic and well data, reports, geologic maps, and technical assistance are available from the Iowa Geological Survey at the University of Iowa. 319-335-1575