About the KGS
An accessible version of the documents on this site will be made available upon request. Please contact the KGS at kgs-editor@ku.edu to request the document be made available in an accessible format.
The Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) is a research and service division of the University of Kansas that investigates and provides information about the state's geologic and groundwater resources. The KGS has no regulatory authority and does not take positions on natural resource issues.
KGS scientists pursue research related to surface and subsurface geology, energy resources, groundwater, and environmental hazards. They develop innovative tools and techniques, monitor earthquakes and groundwater levels, investigate water-quality concerns, and map the state's surface geology. Their analyses, findings, and data are shared with the scientific community and general public through publications, online resources, and presentations. The KGS also houses thousands of oil and gas and water well records filed with the state over several decades as well as thousands of rock cores and cuttings brought to Earth's surface during oil and gas drilling.
The main headquarters of the KGS is in the west district of the University of Kansas in Lawrence, and the Kansas Geologic Sample Repository is in Wichita. Between the two locations, the KGS has a staff of approximately 115 employees, including 35 student employees. The KGS reports to the Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Kansas and has a 12-member advisory committee to provide review and guidance.
Jay Kalbas is Director of the KGS, which has multiple research programs and several supporting units that provide public services and online resources.
KGS Research Programs
- Energy: geology related to oil and gas exploration and other energy resources
- Geophysics and Hazards: geophysics, seismic techniques, and earthquake monitoring; this program includes Exploration Services, which provides support for field-based activities
- Geology and Mineral Resources: stratigraphy, mapping, and mineral resources
- Water Resources/Geohydrology: groundwater and surface water resources
- Geoarchaeology: Odyssey Archaeological Research Program and other geoarchaeology resources
Outreach, Education, and Services
- Educational Resources: GeoKansas, classroom activities and teacher resources, geologic sites interactive map, photo gallery
- Publications: books and maps on the geology, minerals, and natural resources of Kansas
- Libraries and Archives: oil, gas, and water well records; drill core and cuttings from wells