Integrating GIS and Field Geology in Interpreting the Structural Orientation of Miango and Environs, Jos Plateau of Nigeria

Abstract

Integrating GIS and field geological studies has provided the basis for a re-examination of the structural geology of the area, and has enhanced a new interpretation of the structural orientation of Miango and environs to be made. In addition to detecting structures(faults, fracture system), a number of important structures were mapped and analysed using the imagery, and the resulting map represents a modification from the existing publications. The analysed structures were interpreted in form of lineaments which show dominant trends of NE-SW, NW-SE, and N-S.Direction statistics and rose diagrams for all the interpreted linear features acquired in the study area by field geological observation were also prepared. The dominant trends of N-S, NW-SE and NE-SW respectively correspond to the general trend of Precambrian to Cambrian rocks in Nigeria, including rocks of the Basement Complex, as a result all the rock types are said to be Pan-African in age. These coincidence of structural orientation of landsat lineaments and field structures clearly brings to bear that their integration is highly significant in tracking geological structures relevant to mineralization and groundwater occurrence (fracture in the form of faults, shear zones, etc) within Miango area. They are complementary.