The British Geological Survey has collected over 50,000 offshore samples using grabs, dredges and shallow coring devices (to a maximum depth of 6m below the sea bed). The collection also includes additional third party data and has assisted in the creation of BGS marine geology maps. The distribution is variable, but in general there are sample stations spaced approximately every 5 - 10 km across the entire UK Continental Shelf (UKCS), and in some localised areas the sampling density is much higher. The data held include digital data and analogue records (sample data sheets), plus associated physical sample material. Sample data sheets, which have been scanned, contain index information and geological descriptions. They become more detailed from 1983 onwards. Coded geological descriptions were entered on sheets which were subsequently digitized, and this information is available for about 10,000 samples. The data also includes results of analyses such as micropalaeontological examination or age dating. All sample material is managed as part of the BGS materials collection and are available for examination and subsampling. The data are stored within the National Geoscience Data Centre (NGDC) and Marine Environmental Data and Information Network (MEDIN) Data Archive Centre (DAC) for Geology and Geophysics. These geological data are delivered via the BGS GeoIndex. Separate layers are provided for different types of sample: borehole-type samples, grab samples and other equipment types. These layers contain the geological data, and metadata about the samples themselves, as well as links to scanned datasheets and core logs, are provided in separate metadata layers. For some of these samples, particle size analysis (PSA), geochemical and geotechnical data are also available, and these data are provided in separate layers. The data are applicable to a wide range of uses including environmental, geotechnical and geological studies. Reference: Fannin, NGT. (1989) Offshore Investigations 1966-87. British Geological Survey Technical Report WB/89/2, British Geological Survey.
