A Geologic and Mineral Exploration Spatial Database for the Stillwater Complex, Montana

Abstract

The Stillwater Complex is a Neoarchean, ultramafic to mafic layered intrusion exposed in the Beartooth Mountains in south-central Montana. This igneous intrusion contains magmatic mineralization that is variably enriched in strategic and critical commodities such as chromium, nickel, and the platinum-group elements. One deposit, the J-M Reef, is the sole source of primary production and reserves for platinum-group elements in the United States.

A large amount of information has been collected on the Stillwater Complex. In the 1930s, academics, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the [U.S.] Bureau of Mines initiated geologic investigations on the Stillwater Complex. Since that time, more than 600 publications on the Stillwater Complex have appeared in the scientific literature. Exploration and mining companies have collected even more information since the 1920s.

This report provides essential spatially referenced datasets based on geologic mapping and mineral exploration activities conducted from the 1920s to the 1990s. This information will facilitate research on the complex and provide background material needed to explore for mineral resources and to develop sound land-management policy.

First posted October 28, 2014