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The Pierre Shale, northern Great Plains; a potential isolation medium for radioactive waste

Open-File Report 77-776
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https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr77776

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Abstract

The purpose of this reconnaissance is to assess the potential of the Pierre Shale, of Late Cretaceous age, as a possible isolation medium for radioactive wastes. The regional stratigraphic and structural setting of the Pierre Shale in the northern Great Plains is summarized from subsurface data. Geologic attributes mapped and employed in the identification of areas warranting further evaluation are: depth to the base of the Pierre Shale, shale thickness, overburden thickness, lithology and mineralogy of the shale, and penetrations by oil and gas wells. Three areas emerge as most favorable; each may contain many potential disposal sites. These large geologic study areas are further described on the basis of general structural and seismic considerations and are compared with respect to topography and mineral and water resources. A large area in west-central South Dakota is recommended for extensive further study. A smaller area in northeastern Colorado also may warrant additional investigation. A relatively small area in north-central North Dakota is also delineated, but currently is not proposed for further studies.

Suggested Citation

Shurr, G.W., 1977, The Pierre Shale, northern Great Plains; a potential isolation medium for radioactive waste: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 77-776, ii, 27 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr77776.

ISSN: 2331-1258 (online)

Study Area

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title The Pierre Shale, northern Great Plains; a potential isolation medium for radioactive waste
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 77-776
DOI 10.3133/ofr77776
Year Published 1977
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Description ii, 27 p.
Country United States
State Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming
Other Geospatial Great Plains, Pierre Shale
Additional publication details