Tennessee Geological Survey
The mission of the Tennessee Geological Survey is to encourage and promote the prudent development and conservation of Tennessee’s geological, energy, and mineral resources by developing and maintaining data bases, maps and technical services; providing accurate geologic hazard assessments; and disseminating geologic information through publications and educational outreach activities.
The Tennessee Geological Survey is the lineal descendant of the first Tennessee Geological Survey that was established in 1831. It is thus one of the oldest geologic service and research organizations in the country. The survey advises other state agencies and federal and local organizations on matters relating to Tennessee geology.
The Survey’s office in Knoxville houses the State Geologist, Chief Geologist, the Eastern Region Geologist, and our GIS Coordinator. The Nashville Region Geologist covers Middle Tennessee, and our Memphis Region Geologist covers West Tennessee. Geologists are responsible for surficial mapping, subsurface geology, and technical support.
Tennessee state symbols related to geology, plus a generalized geologic map of the state.
The Survey conducts research on the geology and mineral resources of Tennessee and makes the resulting scientific and technical information available to the public through maps and other publications.
The Survey curates a large collection of historical documents relating to the geology and mineral resources of Tennessee. These include maps, reports, field observations, drillers logs, etc. organized in collections by theme. Collections are searchable and most items can be viewed and downloaded.
Tennessee has a rich history of mining dating back to the late 18th century. Tennessee mines the second greatest variety of mineral resources of any state east of the Mississippi River (behind North Carolina).
Updated 01-2020
The Gray Fossil Site is located in Washington County near the community of Gray, Tennessee. Tennessee Department of Transportation geologist Larry Bolt first noticed the unusual geology in excavations during the realignment and widening of State Route 75.
These photomosaics were made during construction of the new alignment of State Route 52 between Celina and the Overton County line. They include interpretations of deep water channels filled with crinoidal limestone that are excellent examples of point bar-like deposits in a deep water setting.
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This Page Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 10:47 AM