Information Circular 9. Instructions for Using the Minnesota System for Storage and Retrieval of Geologic Log Data

Abstract

Information on geologic formations has always been needed by government agencies, industries, and individuals interested in mineral and water resources. Increasing interest in these resources and in the growing environmental problems caused by underground storage of materials and waste disposal has created a need for ready access to geologic data. Several government agencies in Minnesota collect a large amount of geologic data. Until the present time each agency maintained its own file, although exchange of data has occurred often and freely. However, to avoid duplication of effort and to establish the most efficient data storage and retrieval system it was decided that the Minnesota Geological Survey would maintain the central file of geologic data for the State and that the data should be stored in a digital computer system. A printout would then be provided of whatever geologic data was requested by other agencies and individuals. The first need in establishing a system for computer processing of geologic data is to store geologic logs on machine-readable punched cards. The purpose of this report is to provide instructions for recording and coding geologic log data in such a manner that it can be punched by keypunch operators.