2023 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project geotechnical data and sample descriptions: Point Lay, North Slope, Alaska

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Frequently anticipated questions:


What does this data set describe?

Title:
2023 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project geotechnical data and sample descriptions: Point Lay, North Slope, Alaska
Abstract:
2023 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project geotechnical data and sample descriptions: Point Lay, North Slope, Alaska, Raw Data File 2026-2, presents geotechnical descriptions of 160 sediment and material samples collected between July 24 and August 5, 2023, in the Point Lay and Wainwright 1:250,000 scale quadrangles in northwestern Alaska, across an approximately 21,187 km2 (8,180 mi2) area. Geologists from the Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys (DGGS) and ASRC Consulting & Environmental Services, LLC (ACES) documented the character of bedrock and unconsolidated surface materials and collected sediment samples to investigate the distribution of landforms and shallow subsurface rock and sediment in the region. This work was completed in support of a sand and gravel resource assessment for the Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project. Sample descriptions, presented here, constitute one of two data products produced for the 2023 field season and support a reconnaissance-level evaluation of potential construction material resources on the North Slope. The dataset complements Hubbard and others (2026), which provides field station locations and site descriptions for the 478 stations visited during the same campaign. Because information on local construction material resources is limited, sample descriptions offer useful insight into the quality, quantity, and distribution of potential material sources for community planning and land use decision making. These data are provided as a Raw Data File under an open end-user license and are available on the DGGS website: http://doi.org/10.14509/31806.
Supplemental_Information:
Analytical data:    Table of identification numbers, coordinates, geotechnical information, material descriptions, links to photographs of the samples, and an accompanying data dictionary.
  1. How might this data set be cited?
    Hubbard, T.D., Jose, Aleena Merin, Crawford, N.E., Walser, S.L., Haralson, M.D., and Carbaugh, R.M., 2026, 2023 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project geotechnical data and sample descriptions: Point Lay, North Slope, Alaska: Raw Data File RDF 2026-2, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 4 p.
  2. What geographic area does the data set cover?
    West_Bounding_Coordinate: -162.957957
    East_Bounding_Coordinate: -162.077623
    North_Bounding_Coordinate: 70.046934
    South_Bounding_Coordinate: 69.392345
  3. What does it look like?
  4. Does the data set describe conditions during a particular time period?
    Calendar_Date: 2023
    Currentness_Reference:
    ground condition
  5. What is the general form of this data set?
    Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: spreadsheet
  6. How does the data set represent geographic features?
    1. How are geographic features stored in the data set?
      This is a point data set.
    2. What coordinate system is used to represent geographic features?
      Horizontal positions are specified in geographic coordinates, that is, latitude and longitude. Latitudes are given to the nearest 0.0000001. Longitudes are given to the nearest 0.0000001. Latitude and longitude values are specified in decimal degrees. The horizontal datum used is WGS84.
      The ellipsoid used is WGS 84.
      The semi-major axis of the ellipsoid used is 6378137.
      The flattening of the ellipsoid used is 1/298.257223563.
  7. How does the data set describe geographic features?
    rdf2026_002_astar_point_lay_analytical_data.csv, rdf2026_002_astar_point_lay_analytical_data_dictionary.csv
    Table of identification numbers, coordinates, geotechnical information, material descriptions, links to photographs of the samples, and an accompanying data dictionary. (Source: DGGS)

Who produced the data set?

  1. Who are the originators of the data set? (may include formal authors, digital compilers, and editors)
  2. Who also contributed to the data set?
    The State of Alaska funded this work as part of the ASTAR capital improvement project. We appreciate the guidance provided by the Native Village of Point Lay and the Cully Corporation during field planning and data collection, which helped us minimize our impact on the community and the surrounding landscape. We are grateful to the employees and subcontractors of the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation (ASRC), the North Slope Borough, the North Slope Borough Planning Authority, the North Slope Borough Port Authority, Horst Expediting, Alpine Air, and the Kali School, whose logistical support and guidance were essential during field preparation and data collection. We also valued interacting with Point Lay residents and sharing our work.
  3. To whom should users address questions about the data?
    Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys
    Metadata Manager
    3354 College Road
    Fairbanks, AK
    USA

    (907)451-5020 (voice)
    (907)451-5050 (FAX)
    dggspubs@alaska.gov
    Hours_of_Service: 8 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except State holidays
    Contact_Instructions:
    Please view our website (https://www.dggs.alaska.gov) for the latest information on available data. Please contact us using the e-mail address provided above when possible.

Why was the data set created?

This information provides essential baseline data on local sand, gravel, and surface materials to guide community planning, infrastructure development, and land management decisions on the North Slope.

How was the data set created?

  1. From what previous works were the data drawn?
  2. How were the data generated, processed, and modified?
    Date: 2023 (process 1 of 1)
    Field data collection - Between July 24 and August 5, 2023, DGGS staff and contractors collected geologic data and samples at 478 field sites. Field site data include location, field station number, method used to collect data (e.g., surface or outcrop observation, test pit, probe, or auger hole), site observations, and a description of the field station and its surrounding area. We used GPS enabled tablets running the ESRI ArcGIS Field Maps app, which reported a mean horizontal accuracy of approximately 10 meters, to record location information and collect data. Latitude and longitude were recorded in the WGS84 datum. The samples were then transported to Fairbanks, where they were described and photographed. Samples were categorized into three categories: rock samples, unconsolidated samples, and clasts. Rock samples were collected from in situ bedrock. Unconsolidated samples contain sediment collected within a defined interval. Clasts are generally gravel size samples, selectively collected from a field site, that represent the composition of the materials present at the site. The recorded attribute information varies by sample category. The data have not been reviewed for technical content and should be considered preliminary.
  3. What similar or related data should the user be aware of?
    Buzard, R.M., Heiner, Daniel, Overbeck, J.R., and Glenn, R.J.T., 2021, Photogrammetry-derived orthoimagery and elevation for Wainwright, Alaska, collected August 3, 2021: Raw Data File RDF 2021-18, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 4 p
    Crawford, N.E., Walser, S.L., Jose, Aleena Merin, Hubbard, T.D., Stokes, T.B., Wilson, S.Y., Gavel, M.M., and Montayne, Simone, 2025, 2019 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project field station data and descriptions: Inigok airstrip and Teshekpuk Lake region, North Slope, Alaska: Raw Data File RDF 2025-3, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 159 p
    Daanen, R.P., and Stokes, T.B., 2023, Sonar and seismic lake surveys along the proposed triangle road corridor, northwestern Alaska, collected July 6-13, 2021: Raw Data File RDF 2023-1, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 19 p
    Gavel, M.M., and Hubbard, T.D., 2021, Digital data addendum: Analytical data and field observations from surficial geology and morphology of the Alaskan central Arctic Coastal Plain, 1981-1987: Report of Investigation RI 93-1A, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 6 p
    Hubbard, T.D., Jose, Aleena Merin, Crawford, N.E., Walser, S.L., Haralson, M.D., Carbaugh, R.M., Wilson, S.Y., and Milo, Amit, 2026, 2023 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project field station location data and descriptions: Point Lay region, North Slope, Alaska: Raw Data File RDF 2026-1, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 4 p
    Germann, J.T., and Daanen, R.P., 2022, Profile and discharge data for five waterways in the Utqiagvik-Atqasuk-Wainwright region, Alaska, collected August 2022: Raw Data File RDF 2022-15, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 5 p
    Germann, J.T., Daanen, R.P., Stokes, T.B., and Wikstrom Jones, K.M., 2024, Installation of environmental and hydrological monitoring stations-Utqiagvik-Wainwright-Atqasuk region, Alaska, August 2022: Raw Data File RDF 2023-21, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 4 p
    Haralson, M.D., Hubbard, T.D., and Montayne, Simone, 2023, 2021 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project field station location data and descriptions: Wainwright, Atqasuk, and Utqiagvik, North Slope, Alaska: Raw Data File RDF 2023-4, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 5 p
    Haralson, M.D., Hubbard, T.D., and Montayne, Simone, 2023, 2021 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project field geotechnical data and sample descriptions: Wainwright, Atqasuk, and Utqiagvik, North Slope, Alaska: Raw Data File RDF 2023-5, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 4 p
    Haralson, M.D., Hubbard, T.D., Hoffman, H.A., and Montayne, Simone, 2023, 2022 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources project (ASTAR) geotechnical data and sample descriptions: Utqiaġvik region (Barrow triangle), North Slope, Alaska: Raw Data File RDF 2023-13, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 5 p
    Haralson, M.D., Hubbard, T.D., Hoffman, H.A., and Montayne, Simone, 2023, 2022 Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources project (ASTAR) field station location data and descriptions: Utqiaġvik region (Barrow triangle), North Slope, Alaska: Raw Data File RDF 2023-12, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 5 p
    Herbst, A.M., and Daanen, R.P., 2022, Lidar-derived elevation data for the Utqiagvik-Atqasuk region, Alaska, collected August 2019: Raw Data File RDF 2022-10, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 8 p
    Hubbard, T.D., Montayne, Simone, Stokes, T.B., Gallagher, T.T., Crawford, N.E., and Johnson, K.J., 2025, Catalog of drill log cards and sample images from USGS seismic shothole sites in the National Petroleum Reserve - Alaska (1974-1981): Raw Data File RDF 2025-18, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 3 p
    Tannenbaum, T.G., Speeter, G.G., and Hubbard, T.D., 2024, Arctic Strategic Transportation and Resources (ASTAR) project geophysical report: capacitively-coupled resistivity survey for Utqiagvik, Atqasuk, and Wainright road network, North Slope, Alaska: Preliminary Interpretive Report PIR 2023-1, Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, Fairbanks, Alaska, United States.

    Online Links:

    Other_Citation_Details: 72 p

How reliable are the data; what problems remain in the data set?

  1. How well have the observations been checked?
    The accompanying report and data tables provide a comprehensive discussion of processing methods, with errors reported in the tables where applicable. This data is being released as part of the DGGS RDF series, which includes content describing approved techniques and methods for the collection, storage, visualization, analysis, and interpretation of scientific data. While the information has been reviewed by several geologists familiar with the study area, the data and report have not undergone formal review for technical content or conformity to DGGS editorial standards. For inquiries regarding analytical values or procedures, the originating lab is the best point of contact.
  2. How accurate are the geographic locations?
    We used GPS enabled tablets running the ESRI ArcGIS Field Maps app, which reported a mean horizontal accuracy of approximately 10 meters, to record location information and collect data. Latitude and longitude were recorded in the WGS84 datum.
  3. How accurate are the heights or depths?
  4. Where are the gaps in the data? What is missing?
    This data release is complete.
  5. How consistent are the relationships among the observations, including topology?
    Not applicable

How can someone get a copy of the data set?

Are there legal restrictions on access or use of the data?
Access_Constraints:
This report, map, and/or dataset is available directly from the State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources, Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys (see contact information below).
Use_Constraints:
Any hard copies or published datasets utilizing these datasets shall clearly indicate their source. If the user has modified the data in any way, the user is obligated to describe the types of modifications the user has made. The user specifically agrees not to misrepresent these datasets, nor to imply that changes made by the user were approved by the State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources, Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys. The State of Alaska makes no express or implied warranties (including warranties for merchantability and fitness) with respect to the character, functions, or capabilities of the electronic data or products or their appropriateness for any user's purposes. In no event will the State of Alaska be liable for any incidental, indirect, special, consequential, or other damages suffered by the user or any other person or entity whether from the use of the electronic services or products or any failure thereof or otherwise. In no event will the State of Alaska's liability to the Requestor or anyone else exceed the fee paid for the electronic service or product.
  1. Who distributes the data set? (Distributor 1 of 1)
    Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys
    Metadata Manager
    3354 College Road
    Fairbanks, AK
    USA

    (907)451-5020 (voice)
    (907)451-5050 (FAX)
    dggspubs@alaska.gov
    Hours_of_Service: 8 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except State holidays
    Contact_Instructions:
    Please view our website (https://www.dggs.alaska.gov) for the latest information on available data. Please contact us using the e-mail address provided above when possible.
  2. What's the catalog number I need to order this data set? RDF 2026-2
  3. What legal disclaimers am I supposed to read?
    The State of Alaska makes no expressed or implied warranties (including warranties for merchantability and fitness) with respect to the character, functions, or capabilities of the electronic data or products or their appropriateness for any user's purposes. In no event will the State of Alaska be liable for any incidental, indirect, special, consequential, or other damages suffered by the user or any other person or entity whether from the use of the electronic services or products or any failure thereof or otherwise. In no event will the State of Alaska's liability to the Requestor or anyone else exceed the fee paid for the electronic service or product.
  4. How can I download or order the data?

Who wrote the metadata?

Dates:
Last modified: 14-Jan-2026
Metadata author:
Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys
Attn: Simone Montayne
Metadata Manager
3354 College Road
Fairbanks, AK
USA

(907)451-5020 (voice)
(907)451-5050 (FAX)
dggspubs@alaska.gov
Hours_of_Service: 8 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except State holidays
Metadata standard:
FGDC Content Standard for Digital Geospatial Metadata (FGDC-STD-001-1998)
Metadata extensions used:

Generated by mp version 2.9.50 on Wed Jan 14 16:25:47 2026