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

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.