2026 CGS Geology Calendar available now! Explore Colorado’s varied geological landscapes through the seasons. Order your calendar for $15 on our Amazon storefront.
STATEMAP 7.5′ quadrangle maps OF-23-02 Geologic Map of the Ignacio Quadrangle, La Plata County, Colorado
STATEMAP 7.5′ quadrangle maps OF-23-01 Geologic Map of the Badger Wash Quadrangle, Mesa County, Colorado
STATEMAP 7.5′ quadrangle maps OF-22-07 Geologic Map of the Spinney Mountain Quadrangle, Park County, Colorado
Powder Wash field gas plant, Moffat County. Photo credit: Larry Scott (CGS) Energy Colorado’s energy resources, including oil, natural gas, coal, wind, solar, and geothermal, are essential for meeting societal needs and supporting economic growth and energy security in the state and across the U.S.
Constellation Drive landslide, Colorado Springs, Colorado, August 2015. Photo credit: T.C. Wait for the CGS Hazards Colorado’s unique geology and varied topography expose residents to numerous geologic hazards, including landslides, debris flows, rockfall, swelling soils and earthquakes, making hazard awareness and mitigation essential for protecting lives, infrastructure, and natural resources.
Rhodochrosite (Colorado state mineral) and quartz in hand sample. Photo credit: Matt Morgan (CGS). Minerals Building on Colorado’s rich mining history, modern demand focuses on metals like gold, silver, and molybdenum, along with critical minerals and aggregate resources— vital to the state’s economy, developing and using modern technologies, and national security. Colorado is also renowned for hosting world-class mineral specimens, attracting collectors and researchers from around the globe.
The Loch at Rocky Mountain National Park, near Estes Park, CO. Photo credit: Emily Perman (CGS). Water Essential to the arid West and surrounding states, Colorado’s water resources — rivers, lakes, reservoirs, groundwater, and thermal springs — are vital for meeting the needs of communities, agriculture, and industry, while also supporting recreation and tourism through activities like fishing, rafting, and boating.
Exposed folding at Dinosaur National Monument, Moffat County. Photo Credit: Nate Rogers (CGS). Geology From the eastern plains to 14,000-foot peaks and western red-rock canyons, Colorado’s landscape reveals a rich geologic history. Beyond its unmatched natural beauty, the state’s geology provides essential water, mineral, and energy resources which offers a place where all can live, work, and play.
Spread of recent hard copies of CGS publications. Photo credit: Matt Morgan (CGS). Publications Explore our extensive collection of free digital publications, including reports, maps, and guides on geology, water, minerals, energy, and hazards— offering valuable insights for professionals, educators, and anyone curious about Colorado’s geological resources!