USGS Science⌕ Search

Geology topics

Research about Massachusetts

Source-linked reports with geographic coverage including Massachusetts.

At least 739 records · Page 41Linked to original sources
USGS1969

The talc, soapstone, and asbestos deposits of Massachusetts

Several talc and soapstone deposits were worked in Massachusetts from about 1810 to 1922. Most of these deposits are in the Chester Amphibolite, or in serpentine lenses in or adjacent to the amphibolite along a belt that extends north-south across the State from Rowe to West Granville; it appears to be a continuation of the Vermont talc belt. The only deposits outside of this belt that have been worked are a talc and soapstone deposit in the north-west corner of Hinsdale and soapstone deposits on the east side of Soapstone Hill in the western part of Petersham. Very little asbestos has been produced in Massachusetts. A small amount of anthophyllite asbestos was obtained from the deposit in Hinsdale, and from a deposit in southwestern Pelham. The talc and soapstone deposits of Massachusetts were formed from serpentine and possibly from amphibolite, schist, and dolomitic limestone. Those fromed from serpentine are mainly at the ends of the serpentine bodies, and those that appear to have been formed from amphibolite or schist are on the faults and folds.

Massachusetts↗
USGS1968

Availability of ground water in the northern part, Tenmile and Taunton River basins, southeastern Massachusetts

The northern part of the Tenmile and Taunton River basins occupies an area of about 195 square miles. It includes some of the rapidly growing suburbs of Boston, Attleboro, and Brockton and lies along major highways connecting Boston with Fall River and Providence, Rhode Island. (See location map.) The purpose of this report is to delineate the extent of and to estimate the annual sustained yield and pumpage of the principal aquifers that are suitable for exploration for high-yielding wells to meet the needs of municipal water systems and industry. Lesser aquifers providing water for industrial, commercial, domestic, and some municipal supplies are also outlined. This report is based on geologic mapping, records of about 2,200 wells and test borings, seismic records, and discussion of water problems with municipal and corporate officials, drillers, and consulting engineers. Selected test borings and wells, including most municipal and industrial wells, are located on the map. They indicate areas from which water is pumped, saturated thickness and texture of materials, yield of wells, and areas in which exploratory work has already been done. Additional subsurface data are listed in a separate report (Williams and Willey, 1967).

Massachusetts↗