Three dimensional geological modeling and survey-grade geospatial documentation of GSSPs: Using the Silurian System as a case study for the Geologic Time Scale

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Here, we propose a web-based, open-access, digital resource introduced here as the Digital Integrated Stratigraphy Project (DISP). The premise behind the DISP is to eliminate stratigraphic ambiguity associated with sample position within a stratigraphic section. For example, it is often difficult to compare one author’s measured section and data against another author’s geographically identical measured section and data as there are often discrepancies in the thicknesses of units, the assignments of litho- and chronostratigraphic terms, and/or the precise line of measured sections between authors. The DISP will provide a solution to this problem by producing a precise digital rendering of the outcrop using LIDAR and overlain digital photography to produce a cm to mm-scale accurate digital version of a given outcrop globally referenced by global navigation satellite positioning (GNSS). Once available online as shown at www.utdallas.edu/igeology , where a series of digital outcrops in Oklahoma are accessible, researchers could access the program and digital models. We also have the means to log their sample positions online directly onto the digital outcrop using a methodology where a user could attribute on an outcrop model by working on the 2D images thus allowing unambiguous stratigraphic reference for future research. The proposed project will serve as a proof-of-concept for the DISP with a limited initial goal of addressing the six Silurian Global Boundary Stratotype Sections and Points (GSSPs) located within Wales and England.