Mapping Volcanogenic Mineralization: Study of the Westminster Terrane of the Mid-Atlantic Piedmont (2021-2023)

The Maryland Geological Survey (MGS) is working in cooperation with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) on an Earth MRI study on mineralization in the “Linganore District” of in eastern Frederick County and western Carroll County, Maryland. The Linganore District, a region of central Maryland extending from New Market to Westminster, was a source of copper during the American Revolution and produced copper, zinc and lead intermittently through the 1800’s and early 1900’s (Heyl and Pearre, 1965). Critical minerals known to occur in the Linganore district include zinc (Zn), barite (Ba), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn).

MGS is mapping and sampling mineralized zones of the soil and underlying bedrock within the Westminster terrane, which is part of the eastern Piedmont physiographic province. Previous studies suggest that mineralization is concentrated along the boundaries between the greenstone basalts and marble bedrock (Graybill, 2012). MGS is mapping the distribution of these geologic contacts using statewide aeromagnetic surveys being flown by the USGS as well as more detailed magnetic surveys flown by drone. After completion of aeromagnetic surveys, sampling of potential mineralized areas will be conducted. These samples will then be analyzed by the USGS for their trace and major element content and examined by MGS geologists for mineral content.

Graybill, E.A., 2012. Age, Origin and Mineral Resources of the Sams Creek/Wakefield Complex, Maryland Piedmont. Unpublished M.A. Thesis, Ohio University, Athens, 108 p.

Heyl, A.V., and Pearre, N.C., 1965. Copper, Zinc, Lead, Iron, Cobalt, and Barite Deposits in the Piedmont Upland of Maryland. Maryland Geological Survey, Bulletin 28, 72 p.

Contact information
Maryland Geological Survey
Richard A. Ortt, Jr., Director
David K. Brezinski (410) 554-5526
david.brezinski@maryland.gov