Description
The general purpose of this CGS geologic map is to describe the geologic setting of this 7.5-minute quadrangle on the Western Slope of Colorado. Field work for the project was conducted in 2013. This mapping project was funded jointly by the U.S. Geological Survey through Agreement No. G13AC00213 of the STATEMAP component of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, which is authorized by the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1997, and also by the Colorado Geological Survey using the Colorado Department of Natural Resources Severance Tax Operational Funds. The CGS matching funds come from the severance paid on the production of natural gas, oil, coal, and metals. Geologic maps produced through the STATEMAP program are intended as multi-purpose maps useful for land-use planning, geotechnical engineering, geologic-hazard assessment, mineral-resource development, and ground-water exploration. Includes GIS data. Digital ZIP download. OF-15-07D
From the Author’s Notes:
The Paonia 7.5‐minute quadrangle is located in Delta County, Colorado. The region is known for its orchards, vineyards, and organic agriculture. The North Fork Gunnison River (known locally as the North Fork River) flows across the northwestern corner. The lowest elevation in the quadrangle (5,550 feet) is where the river exits to the west. To the northwest and southeast of the river are numerous gravel‐ or mud‐and‐gravel‐capped mesas, including Pitkin, Stewart, Lamborn, and Bone Mesas. Minnesota Creek flows across the northeastern and north central parts of the quadrangle. The town of Paonia (2010 population: 1,497) is located at the confluence of Minnesota Creek and the North Fork River. A cluster of high peaks and ridges, including Mt. Lamborn (11,398 feet), Landsend Peak (10,806 feet), and Second Creek Ridge, dominates in the southeastern part of the quadrangle. These summits constitute the westernmost part of the West Elk Mountains. In the southeastern part of the quadrangle is an area of gravel‐capped mesas, of which McDonald Mesa is the largest and highest, flanked by shale basins and badlands known locally as “the Adobe Hills,” or simply, “the Adobes.”
