The California Geological Survey (CGS) is conducting geochemical reconnaissance sampling for critical minerals in California. This web page contains the results of those reconnaissance efforts.
The goal of the sampling program is to collect data that will support current and future critical-mineral, precious-metal, base-metal, and industrial-mineral activities in California. Critical minerals as defined by the U.S. Department of Interior are mineral resources that are essential to our economy and national security and are at risk for supply disruption.
DR 2024-1 - Data Release for the Del Norte Nickel-Cobalt Laterite Geochemical Reconnaissance Project
Map showing location and size of reconnaissance area (black outline), and distribution of sample locations (blue dots). Location: north-central Del Norte County. Size: roughly 15 miles across in all directions. There are approximately 90 sample locations, distributed toward the perimeter of the recon area.
by Ben Parrish, PG and Amy Tuzzolino, PG
Summary of DR 2024-1
The CGS conducted geochemical reconnaissance sampling of laterite and associated ultramafic rocks in Del Norte County as part of its statewide geochemical reconnaissance initiative. The Del Norte County laterite deposits have historically been mined for nickel, cobalt, and chromium. Samples from laterite and ultramafic rocks of the Josephine Ophiolite in Del Norte County were collected for geochemical analyses. Samples were selected to evaluate trace-element signatures and distribution in laterite deposits and compare trace-element concentration in underlying ultramafic rocks. Samples were also selected to evaluate laterite enrichment processes for nickel, cobalt, and chromium in these deposits.
