St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center's Geologic Core and Sample Database Metadata

Frequently anticipated questions:

• What does this data set describe?
  1. How might this data set be cited?
  2. What geographic area does the data set cover?
  3. What does it look like?
  4. Does the data set describe conditions during a particular time period?
  5. What is the general form of this data set?
  6. How does the data set represent geographic features?
  7. How does the data set describe geographic features?
• Who produced the data set?
  1. Who are the originators of the data set?
  2. Who also contributed to the data set?
  3. To whom should users address questions about the data?
• Why was the data set created?
• How was the data set created?
  1. From what previous works were the data drawn?
  2. How were the data generated, processed, and modified?
  3. What similar or related data should the user be aware of?
• How reliable are the data; what problems remain in the data set?
  1. How well have the observations been checked?
  2. How accurate are the geographic locations?
  3. How accurate are the heights or depths?
  4. Where are the gaps in the data? What is missing?
  5. How consistent are the relationships among the data, including topology?
• How can someone get a copy of the data set?
  1. Are there legal restrictions on access or use of the data?
  2. Who distributes the data?
  3. What's the catalog number I need to order this data set?
  4. What legal disclaimers am I supposed to read?
  5. How can I download or order the data?
• Who wrote the metadata?

What does this data set describe?

1. How might this data set be cited?
   Williams, Breanna N., Schreppel, Heather A., Reich, Christopher D., Smith, Kathryn E.L., Tiling-Range, Ginger, Stalk, Chelsea A., Douglas, Steven H., Dadisman, Shawn V., Flocks, James G., Toth, Lauren T., and Stathakopoulos, Anastasios, 20130725, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center's Geologic Core and Sample Database Metadata:.

   This is part of the following larger work.
   Williams, Breanna N., Schreppel, Heather A., Reich, Christopher D., Smith, Kathryn E.L., Tiling-Range, Ginger, Stalk, Chelsea A., Douglas, Steven H., Dadisman, Shawn V., Flocks, James G., Toth, Lauren T., and Stathakopoulos, Anastasios, 20130725, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center's Geologic Core and Sample Database: U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, St. Petersburg, Florida.

   Online Links:

   • https://doi.org/10.5066/F7319TR3

2. What geographic area does the data set cover?

   West_Bounding_Coordinate: -124.046882
   East_Bounding_Coordinate: 162.250000
   North_Bounding_Coordinate: 46.740893
   South_Bounding_Coordinate: -3.272100
   

3. What does it look like?
4. Does the data set describe conditions during a particular time period?

   Beginning_Date: 07-Sep-1974

   Ending_Date: 15-Dec-2021

   Currentness_Reference:

   ground condition

5. What is the general form of this data set?

   Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: application/service, tabular digital data
   

6. How does the data set represent geographic features?
   1. How are geographic features stored in the data set?
      This is a Vector data set. It contains the following vector data types (SDTS terminology):
      • Entity point (6451)
   2. What coordinate system is used to represent geographic features?
      Horizontal positions are specified in geographic coordinates, that is, latitude and longitude. Latitudes are given to the nearest 8.98315284119521e-009. Longitudes are given to the nearest 8.98315284119521e-009. Latitude and longitude values are specified in Decimal Degrees. The horizontal datum used is D_WGS_1984.
      The ellipsoid used is WGS_1984.
      The semi-major axis of the ellipsoid used is 6378137.0.
      The flattening of the ellipsoid used is 1/298.257223563.
      
7. How does the data set describe geographic features?

   SPCMSC_samples_database.csv, SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database Feature Layer (hosted)

   A comprehensive inventory of geologic (coral, coral reef, limestone, and sediment) cores and samples collected, analyzed, published, and/or archived by, or in collaboration with, USGS SPCMSC. Fields in this database include, but are not limited to: sample identification, field activity number, sample type, sampling device, site name, collection date, associated publications, types of conducted analysis(es), geographic location (latitude/longitude), collection time, collecting agency, name(s) and contact information, sample disposition, storage location, and additional notes. Please read the entity and attribute information section below for the complete list and explanation of fields in this database. (Source: USGS)

   OBJECTID*

   Internal feature number. (Source: Esri) Sequential unique whole numbers that are automatically generated. *Present in the hosted feature layer.

   pk_id

   Primary key identifier. (Source: USGS) Sequential unique whole numbers (starting at 1) assigned to each sample or core upon database accession by USGS SPCMSC. Gaps may exist in the numbering, as not all numbered records are published, or some records may have been deleted.

   field_activity_id

   The field activity number of the sample collection. Blanks in this field indicate there is insufficient information regarding collection of the cores(s) or sample(s) needed in order to assign a field activity number in CMGDS. (Source: USGS) A text string containing the field activity number (FAN). This number ensures that CMHRP data management protocols were followed. If this field is blank, the FAN is either unknown or could not be assigned to a sample collection activity due to a lack of metadata. Some FANs were retroactively created and assigned after the field activity occurred. Please visit the specific FAN's CMGDS web page for more details about the field activity.

   sample_id

   Sample identifier assigned in the field. (Source: USGS) A text string containing the sample identification code assigned by the collecting agency or group.

   sample_type

   The type of sample collected in the field. (Source: USGS)

   Value	Definition
   core	A vertical sample of relatively undisturbed geologic material (coral, coral reef, limestone, or sediment) obtained using a coring device.
   surface	A sample collected at the surface of the geologic material.

   material

   The type of geologic material contained in the sample or core. (Source: USGS)

   Value	Definition
   coral	The core or sample material is a coral skeleton.
   coral reef	The core or sample material is coral-reef framework, which can be composed of a combination of coral skeletons, reef sediment, and other calcium carbonate substrates.
   limestone	The core or sample material is consolidated calcium carbonate that is either not primarily composed of coral-reef framework or is composed of coral-reef framework that has been diagenetically altered to a secondary carbonate minerology.
   sediment	The core or sample material consists of unconsolidated sediment material.

   device

   Device used to collect the geologic core or sample. (Source: USGS)

   Value	Definition
   auger	A type of auger coring device was used to collect the sample.
   borehole	A type of borehole coring device was used to collect the sample.
   box core	A box core device was used to collect the sample.
   gravity core	A gravity core device was used to collect the sample.
   hand sample	The sample was collected by hand.
   hydraulic coring drill	A hydraulic coring drill device was used to collect the sample.
   miniSEABOSS	A miniSEABOSS device was used to collect the sample.
   piston core	A type of piston coring device was used to collect the sample.
   ponar-type grab	A type of ponar grab was used to collect the sample.
   push core	A type of push coring device was used to collect the sample.
   rotary core	A type of rotary coring device was used to collect the sample.
   sediment tile	A type of sediment tile device was used to collect the sample.
   sediment trap	A sediment trap device was used to collect the sample.
   shovel	A shovel was used to collect the sample.
   surface grab	The sample was collected using a surface grab technique.
   unknown	The type of device used to collect the sample is not known.
   Van Veen grab	A Van Veen grab device was used to collect the sample.
   vibracore	A vibracoring device was used to collect the sample.

   age_range

   The estimated age range of the sampled material for coral, coral reef, or limestone. Approximate age obtained through various laboratory methods performed on the sample material (for example, radiometric dating). Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown or not applicable. (Source: USGS)

   Value	Definition
   modern	The age of the core or sample is younger than 1950 CE (Common Era).
   0-10,000 years	The age of the core or sample is between 0 and 10,000 years before present, where "present" by radiocarbon convention is defined as 1950 CE.
   >10,000 years	The age of the core or sample is before 10,000 years before present, where "present" by radiocarbon convention is defined as 1950 CE.

   coral_species

   The species of coral if the core or sample is of coral material. Blanks indicate it is either unknown or not applicable. (Source: USGS) A text string containing the binomial name of a coral species. If the species was identified, then the abbreviated genus with full species name schema was used. Example: C. natans. If a species was not identified, then the full genus name was used, followed by "spp." Example: Orbicella spp.

   site_name

   The name of the sampling site. Blanks indicate it is either unknown or not applicable for the sample or core. (Source: USGS) A text string containing the name of the sample site, which is assigned by the principal investigator.

   core_number

   The core identification number. (Source: USGS) A combination of numeric or alphanumeric string containing the core number, which is assigned by the principal investigator.

   date_collected

   The date of sample collection. Blanks in this field indicate it is unknown. (Source: USGS) Date the sample was collected, in YYYYMMDD format. Some dates were approximated (to the month or year) due to a lack of available metadata.

   length_cm

   The length of the core collected. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown or not applicable. (Source: USGS)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	1.5
   Maximum:	2835
   Units:	centimeters

   water_depth_m

   The measured water depth at the location where the core or sample was collected. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown or not applicable. (Source: USGS)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	0
   Maximum:	2259
   Units:	meters

   publish

   Indicates whether the sample or core has associated publications. The publicly available database does not contain unpublished samples or cores. (Source: USGS)

   Value	Definition
   TRUE	The sample or core has an associated publication(s).

   pub_url

   Web URL to the applicable CMGDS field activity details page containing links to associated publication(s) pertaining to the sample or core. Some samples or cores originally published in the SPCMSC Core Archive Portal (Reich and others, 2012), did not have sufficient sample collection information for retroactive FAN assignment, and therefore do not have a URL in this field to a CMGDS field activity details page. Instead, a direct link to the associated publication(s), such as https://doi.org/10.3133/ds626, was used in this field. (Source: USGS) A text string containing the URL to the publication(s) or the list of publication(s) on the CMGDS field activity details page.

   type_of_analyses

   Indicates what types of analyses or scientific studies were conducted on the sample or core. The terms in this field are a controlled vocabulary from the USGS Thesaurus (https://apps.usgs.gov/thesaurus/). If multiple analyses were conducted on a core or sample, each are listed in alphabetical order, separated by commas. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown or not applicable. See the associated publication(s) for detailed information regarding conducted analyses. (Source: USGS Thesaurus)

   Value	Definition
   age estimation methods	Methods used to determine the age of earth materials, typically by laboratory analysis of properties of those materials.
   atomic emission spectroscopy	Chemical detection of element concentration by examining the intensity and wavelength of light emitted from the sample when gaseous sample is ionized and maintained in a plasma state.
   bulk density	Overall density of an unconsolidated earth material.
   carbon-14 analysis	Method to determine the age of organic geologic and archaeological specimens, aged approximately 3,000 to 50,000 years, by determining the decay of the radioactive isotope carbon-14.
   carbon isotope analysis	Experimental determination of the proportion of a given stable carbon isotope (C12 or C13) in a sample.
   chemical analysis	Chemical techniques used to identify the composition of substances.
   contamination and pollution	Introduction of harmful substances into the environment by human action or natural processes.
   core analysis	Study of the composition and layers of cylindrical samples of rocks, trees, ice, and other materials extracted by drilling into a mass. Intended for broad use for the analysis of all types of core samples. The combination of this term with other terms will convey the context of the activity.
   CTD measurement	Instrumental determination of conductivity, temperature, and pressure as a function of depth to determine the salinity of seawater.
   faunal and floral census (microscopic)	Records of counts of the different microscopic species in a core, soil, sediment, rock or water sample to determine geologic age or other characteristic of the sample. Use for microscopic examinations.
   grain-size analysis	Method of studying soils, sediments, sands, or rock by determining the size, distribution, and proportion of selected particles.
   isotopic analysis	Experimental determination of the proportion of a given isotope (or isotopes) in a sample.
   laboratory methods	Techniques to analyze and test samples in a place equipped and designed for the work.
   light stable isotope analysis	Analytical technique using mass spectrometry to measure the different isotopic forms of low mass (light) elements such as oxygen, hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen and sulfur that occur in samples.
   luminescence dating	Dating methods that involve the analysis of the optical properties of minerals exposed to environmental radiation. Typically used to determine the age of subaerial exposure of surficial sediments.
   magnetic susceptibility	Nondestructive evaluation and location of magnetic materials in rock based on measuring the intensity of attraction of the materials to an induced magnetic field.
   mass spectroscopy	Instrumental technique to separate and identify molecules. Gaseous ions are formed, with or without fragmentation. Their mass/charge ratios and relative electrical abundance are then measured or the spectra are recorded.
   paleomagnetic analysis	Determination of the intensity and direction of residual magnetism in rocks to study changes in the earth's magnetic field during past geologic time.
   permeability	The ability of fluids to pass through an earth material, typically depending on the connectedness of pore space in the material.
   photography	Process of using digital or film cameras to collect images of objects.
   porosity	The proportion of open space in a rock or unconsolidated material.
   radiometric dating	Methods for age determination of rocks and fossils by measuring the proportions of naturally occurring radioactive isotopes to their decay products.
   salinity	Measure of the concentration of salts dissolved in a solution.
   sea surface temperature	Observed temperature of surface ocean waters, typically encompassing the entire mixed layer.
   stratigraphy	Branch of geology concerned with the study of the formation, composition, ordering in time, and arrangement in space of stratified rocks.
   tomography	Observation of the internal structure of an object or, as is more typical in USGS research, a cross section of the earth's crust by changing the relative orientation of a signal generator, a sensor, or both.
   water chemistry	Branch of chemistry that deals with the elements and compounds in water.
   water quality	The chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water, usually in respect to its suitability for a particular purpose.
   x-ray diffraction	Study of crystals which uses short wave electromagnetic radiations (x-rays). The x-rays, scattered by the crystal atoms, show a characteristic interference pattern that is dependent upon the structure of the crystal.
   x-ray fluorescence	Estimation of chemical element concentration by measuring the energy level of secondary X-rays generated when the sample is bombarded with high-energy X-rays or gamma rays.

   latitude

   The latitude coordinate for where the sample was collected. (Source: USGS)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	-3.2721
   Maximum:	46.74089256
   Units:	decimal degrees

   longitude

   The longitude coordinate for where the sample was collected. (Source: USGS)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	-124.0468823
   Maximum:	162.25
   Units:	decimal degrees

   reef_tract

   A description of the reef tract where the coral, coral reef, or limestone core or sample was collected, defined by the principal investigator. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown or not applicable. (Source: USGS) A text string containing the reef tract name.

   time_collected

   The time of sample collection. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown or not applicable. (Source: USGS) Time the sample was collected in HH:MM format (time zone is local and dependent on the area of study).

   diameter_cm

   The diameter (in centimeters) of the core or sample. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown or not applicable. (Source: USGS)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	0.76
   Maximum:	15
   Units:	centimeters

   compaction_m

   The measured compaction (in meters) of the core or sample. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown or not applicable. (Source: USGS)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	0
   Maximum:	2.77
   Units:	meters

   agency

   Name of the agency that collected the sample. (Source: USGS)

   Value	Definition
   USGS	U.S. Geological Survey
   USDA-NRCS	United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service
   LDNR	Louisiana Department of Natural Resources
   Ocean-Seis	Ocean-Seismic Survey, Inc.
   USACE	U.S. Army Corp of Engineers
   Nova Southeastern University	Nova Southeastern University
   unknown	Collecting agency is unknown.
   VIMS	Virginia Institute of Marine Science
   Dial Cordy & Associates, Inc.	Dial Cordy & Associates, Inc. environmental consulting firm
   Florida Atlantic University	Florida Atlantic University

   platform

   Ship or vessel (if aquatic), or terrestrial platform upon which the sample or core was collected when known. (Source: USGS) A text string containing the ship or vessel name, if aquatic collection. If a terrestrial collection, the vehicle name, or "on foot" label was used. Field value has been entered as "unknown" if the collecting platform is not known.

   pi_name

   The name(s) of the principal investigators(s) who were responsible for core or field collection. Field value has been entered as "unknown" if the principal investigator is not known. (Source: USGS) A text string containing principal investigator name(s) by last name, first name. If multiple names are listed, each full name is separated by a semicolon.

   pi_email

   The email address(es) of the principal investigator(s) who were responsible for field collection. Blanks in this field indicate the principal investigator is unknown or the sample or core is deaccessioned. Field value has been entered as "Contact curator" if the sample is archived, but the principal investigator is no longer with the USGS. In this case, users can refer to the curator's name and email for contact information. (Source: USGS) A text string containing an email address(es).

   disposition

   Status of the sample after it was collected in the field. This field value is subject to change at any time, as the sample database is continually re-assessed and updated. (Source: USGS)

   Value	Definition
   Active	The sample or core has been collected but has not been added to the archive, this may indicate it is still being actively processed or analyzed.
   Archived	The sample or core is stored in a repository. See storage_facility field for more information.
   Deaccessioned	The sample or core is no longer stored in a repository. The sample may have been destroyed, disposed of due to not meeting archival requirements (such as lack of adequate metadata), or consumed entirely during analysis.
   unknown	The disposition of the sample is currently not known. Please contact the sample curator for more information regarding the sample's disposition.

   in_collections

   Indicates whether the sample or core is available in the USGS SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Physical Storage Collection, or in an external repository. For more information, also see the disposition and storage_facility fields. (Source: USGS)

   Value	Definition
   Yes	The sample or core is currently stored at USGS SPCMSC, in the USGS SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Physical Storage Collection, or elsewhere within the center.
   No	The sample or core is not stored at USGS SPCMSC, in the USGS SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Physical Storage Collection, or elsewhere within the center. The sample may be deaccessioned or located in an external repository, please see the disposition and storage_facility fields for more information.
   unknown	The location of the sample or core in an archival repository is not known at this time.

   curator_name

   The name of the person who has responsibility for the sample or core located in the repository. This person is the point of contact for data inquiries. Blanks in this field indicate the sample or core is deaccessioned. (Source: USGS) A text string containing curator name(s) by last name, first name.

   curator_email

   The email address of the person who has responsibility for the sample or core in the repository. This email address can be used for data inquiries. Blanks in this field indicate the sample or core has been deaccessioned. All known information for the sample or core is available in this database and accompanying publications. (Source: USGS) A text string containing an email address.

   storage_facility

   The name of the organization or storage facility where the archived sample or core is located. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown, or the sample or core is deaccessioned. (Source: USGS) A text string containing the organization or storage facility name.

   room

   The room in the storage facility where the archived sample or core is located at USGS SPCMSC. Blanks in this field indicate the room location is either unknown, not applicable, or the sample or core is deaccessioned. (Source: USGS) A text string containing information regarding storage location.

   floor

   The floor in the storage facility where the archived sample or core is located. This field is only applicable to samples archived in the USGS SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Physical Storage Collection. Blanks in this field indicate the floor is either unknown, not applicable, or the sample or core is deaccessioned. (Source: USGS) A text string containing information regarding storage location.

   stack_wall

   The stack or wall number in the storage facility where the archived sample or core is located. This field is only applicable to samples or cores archived in the USGS SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Physical Storage Collection. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown, not applicable, or the sample or core is deaccessioned. (Source: USGS) A text string containing information regarding storage location.

   column

   The column of shelves in the storage location where the archived sample or core is located. This field is only applicable to samples or cores archived in the USGS SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Physical Storage Collection. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown, not applicable, or the sample or core is deaccessioned. (Source: USGS) A text string containing information regarding storage location.

   row

   The row of shelves in the storage location where the archived sample or core is located. This field is only applicable to samples or cores archived in the USGS SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Physical Storage Collection. Blanks in this field indicate it is either unknown, not applicable, or the sample or core is deaccessioned. (Source: USGS) A text string containing information regarding storage location.

   field_activity_url

   Web URL to the applicable CMGDS field activity details page containing field activity information and links to associated publication(s) pertaining to the sample or core. Blanks in this field indicate there was insufficient field collection information needed for retroactive FAN assignment. (Source: USGS) A text string containing a URL.

   notes

   Additional information about the sample or core that may be of interest. (Source: USGS) A text string containing notes regarding the sample or core.

   geog_approx

   Indicates if the geographic coordinates used to identify the location of sample collected are approximate and did not use modern GPS technology, the location was identified using a map, or some other geographic approximation method. (Source: USGS)

   Value	Definition
   Yes	Geographic coordinates are considered approximate.
   No	Geographic coordinates are not considered approximate.

Who produced the data set?

1. Who are the originators of the data set? (may include formal authors, digital compilers, and editors)
   • Breanna N. Williams
   • Heather A. Schreppel
   • Christopher D. Reich
   • Kathryn E.L. Smith
   • Ginger Tiling-Range
   • Chelsea A. Stalk
   • Steven H. Douglas
   • Shawn V. Dadisman
   • James G. Flocks
   • Lauren T. Toth
   • Anastasios Stathakopoulos
2. Who also contributed to the data set?
   The USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center would like to recognize additional collaborators that assisted with field collection, analysis, and/or archival for some samples found within this database, Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (LDNR), Nova Southeastern University, Ocean-Seismic Survey, Inc (Ocean-Seis), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Eckerd College, Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS), Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), Florida Geological Survey (FGS), USGS South Atlantic Water Science Center, USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center (PCMSC), University of New Orleans (UNO), Dial Cordy & Associates, Inc., and Florida Atlantic University.
3. To whom should users address questions about the data?
   U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Attn: USGS SPCMSC Data Management Group

   Data Management

   600 4th Street South

   St. Petersburg, Florida
   

   USA

   727-502-8000 (voice)

Why was the data set created?

How was the data set created?

1. From what previous works were the data drawn?

   SPCMSC Core Archive Portal (source 1 of 2)

   Reich, Chris D., Streubert, Matt I., Dwyer, Brendan, Godbout, Megan, Muslic, Adis, and Umberger, Dan, 20120104, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center's Core Archive Portal: U.S. Geological Survey Data Series 626.

   Online Links:

   • https://doi.org/10.3133/ds626

   Type_of_Source_Media: tabular digital data
   Source_Contribution:

   This data set is the original USGS SPCMSC Core Archive Portal. Data consisted predominately of coral and rock cores collected by the USGS in south Florida, Bahamas, Gulf of Mexico, and Virgin Islands. All rock sample records recorded in Data Series 626 have since been reclassified to either coral, coral reef, limestone, or sediment material during an update the database in April 2022 to improve descriptive accuracy. The database was combined with the SPCMSC sediment sample database to create a more comprehensive record of past geologic sampling efforts from SPCMSC. Some dates and other collection information may have been altered from this publication since its original release, as more accurate information from published research was discovered.

   SPCMSC Sediment Samples Database (source 2 of 2)

   Schreppel, Heather A., Smith, Kathryn E.L., Flocks, James G., Dadisman, Shawn A., Tiling-Range, Ginger, Douglas, Steven H., Stalk, Chelsea A., and Williams, Breanna N., 20130122, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center's Sediment Samples Database.

   Type_of_Source_Media: tabular digital data
   Source_Contribution:

   The SPCSMC Sediment Samples Database contained information on sediment cores and samples collected by SPCMSC staff and collaborators located predominately in the Gulf of Mexico. The database only contained information on sediment grab samples and cores that have been published in an official USGS publication or a peer-reviewed scholarly publication. Data from the SPCMSC Core Archive Portal (Reich and others, 2012) was combined with this database (Schreppel and others, 2013) to create a more comprehensive record of geologic cores and samples associated with USGS SPCMSC. Some dates and other collection information may have been altered from this database since its original release, as more accurate information from published research was discovered.

2. How were the data generated, processed, and modified?

   Date: 2012 (process 1 of 7)

   Information from core description sheets and publications on sediment samples and cores were populated into an Excel spreadsheet by manual entry. Sediment samples and cores that were physically archived in the USGS SPCMSC Core Laboratory were populated with associated repository storage locations in the database. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Attn: Heather A. Schreppel

   Geographer (Data Management Specialist)

   600 4th Street South

   St. Petersburg, Florida
   

   USA

   727-502-8000 (voice)

   hschreppel@usgs.gov

   Data sources used in this process:

   • SPCMSC Sediment Samples Database

   Date: 2012 (process 2 of 7)

   Information from description sheets and published research on rock (which have since been reclassified to a different material type to improve descriptive accuracy) and coral cores archived within the USGS SPCMSC Core Laboratory repository were populated into Excel spreadsheet by manual entry. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Attn: Christopher D. Reich

   Geologist

   600 4th Street South

   St. Petersburg, Florida
   

   USA

   727-502-8000 (voice)

   creich@usgs.gov

   Data sources used in this process:

   • SPCMSC Core Archive Portal

   Date: 24-Jun-2013 (process 3 of 7)

   Publishing the database (original methodology): Data from the SPCMSC Core Archive Portal were combined into comparable columns in the SPCSMC Sediment Samples Database in Microsoft Excel to create a single, complete database of all SPCMSC geologic samples and cores, formally known as the SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database. Attribute names were adjusted, but no essential information was lost or deleted during the collation. After collation of the two datasets, the Excel spreadsheet file (.xlsx) of the database was filtered to exclude cores and samples that have not been documented in published research. A filter was applied to the ‘publish’ field as ‘TRUE’ in the .xlsx. This filtered copy of the published-only database was saved as a comma-separated values file (.csv). To preserve attribute field names, the .csv file was imported as a feature class into a file geodatabase using ArcMap 10.1. Next, the file geodatabase feature class was imported into an ArcSDE enterprise geodatabase. The enterprise geodatabase feature class was added and saved into a map document (.mxd), and then published as a web service using ArcGIS Server in ArcGIS Enterprise. The web service was then added to a new web map (SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Map) in ArcGIS Online and saved. Lastly, the web map was added to a web mapping application using ArcGIS Web AppBuilder and various widgets and functionality were developed on the application. The SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database was made publicly accessible on ArcGIS Online via a web mapping application, known as the SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Mapping Application, at https://doi.org/10.5066/F7319TR3. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Attn: Kathryn E.L. Smith

   Research Ecologist

   600 4th Street South

   St. Petersburg, Florida
   

   USA

   727-502-8000 (voice)

   kelsmith@usgs.gov

   Data sources used in this process:

   • SPCMSC Core Archive Portal
   • SPCMSC Sediment Samples Database

   Data sources produced in this process:

   • SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database
   • SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Mapping Application
   • SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Map

   Date: 2021 (process 4 of 7)

   Republishing the database (original methodology): Information about samples and cores were added to the existing Excel spreadsheet as more were collected in the field, or new information was published about previously collected cores or samples. Only the published cores and sample records were republished at every iteration. Core and sample information may have been altered in the database from previous iterations of the database, as more accurate information from published research was discovered. Once updated with new information, the database (.csv) was republished using the methodology mentioned in the previous process step. The version of ArcMap used to republish the database changed over time as new versions were released by Esri. The final version used for this publishing method was ArcMap 10.6. Once the enterprise geodatabase feature class was updated and the web service was republished, the existing web map and web application automatically updated on ArcGIS Online. This methodology was performed on a continual, as-needed basis from 2013-2021. New publishing methodology was introduced in September 2022. Please refer to the subsequent process steps for more information. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Attn: Breanna N. Williams

   Geographer

   600 4th Street South

   St. Petersburg, Florida
   

   USA

   727-502-8000 (voice)

   bnwilliams@usgs.gov

   Data sources used in this process:

   • SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database

   Data sources produced in this process:

   • SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database
   • SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Mapping Application
   • SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Map

   Date: 06-Sep-2022 (process 5 of 7)

   Editing the database in PostgreSQL (current methodology): A new editing method for the SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database was implemented in September 2022 to improve and modernize management of the database. The .xlsx copy of the database containing both the unpublished and published sample records was uploaded into Navicat (version 11.2.16) as a PostgreSQL database. Navicat is graphical database management and development software. PostgreSQL is an open-source relational database management system that utilizes Structured Query Language (SQL), a programming language used for database design, manipulation, and management. Edits to the database are made periodically throughout the biannual update window, and a backup is exported each day edits occur (in .sql format). The backups are stored on an internal server for safekeeping. Edits to the database are executed by either of the following methods: manual edit to the database within Navicat using an edit session in the software, or upload of a .csv to the database in Navicat containing edits of additions using the primary key identifier (pk_id) to add a new record or edit existing records. Updates and edits to the database are made in the following instances: new samples are collected by SPCMSC researchers, new donated or contracted samples are received by SPCMSC, new research about samples are published, changes are made to disposition or storage locations, or new sample information becomes available. All published edits to the database are recorded within a version history document. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Attn: Breanna N. Williams

   Geographer

   600 4th Street South

   St. Petersburg, Florida
   

   USA

   727-502-8000 (voice)

   bnwilliams@usgs.gov

   Date: 06-Sep-2022 (process 6 of 7)

   Quality control and quality assurance (QA/QC) (current methodology): Once edits are complete for the biannual update, they are quality checked by another member of the SPCMSC data management group to ensure data integrity. This reviewer validates the following: geospatial and temporal coordinates have been transcribed/transposed correctly, changes to the metadata are complete and accurate, the version history fully documents changes made to the database, no typos or errors were introduced during the data entry process, field activity numbers and associated publications are accurate with valid links, and the analyses field uses controlled vocabulary from the USGS Thesaurus. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Attn: Heather A. Schreppel

   Geographer (Data Management Specialist)

   600 4th Street South

   St. Petersburg, Florida
   

   USA

   727-502-8000 (voice)

   hschreppel@usgs.gov

   Date: 06-Sep-2022 (process 7 of 7)

   Publishing the database (current methodology): After QA/QC has been performed, a copy of the database is published to ArcGIS Online. This new method improves the integration of the database with online services. The current methods are as follows: 1. In Navicat, the samples database manager applies a filter to the database. Samples with 'TRUE' in the 'publish' attribute are selected, and the data is exported as a comma-separated values (.csv) file. 2. A pre-defined template ArcGIS Project File (.aprx) is opened in ArcGIS Pro 2.8.3. The ‘Table to Point Feature Class’ geoprocessing tool is used to convert the .csv file into a feature class and is saved in a file geodatabase (.gdb) on an internal server to preserve the field names. The coordinate system for the shapefile is set to the World Geodetic System of 1984 (WGS 84). 3. Six copies of the samples database feature class are added to the Contents pane within ArcGIS Pro. These layers are then selected and placed into a Group Layer and each sample category is defined using a Definition Query. This process sorts the data by the material and sample type fields. The data is currently classified into the following categories: coral cores, coral samples, coral reef cores, limestone cores, sediment cores, and sediment samples. Each layer in the Contents pane is renamed to reflect these sample categories. Additional categories may be added in the future if new sample types are collected and published. 4. Next, each sample category is uniquely symbolized for increased accessibility. Symbol colors and shapes have been chosen to make the dataset and web applicable more accessible to people with disabilities based on Section 508 standards for information and communication technology. For more information about Section 508, refer to https://www.section508.gov/. 5. The group layer is shared as a hosted feature layer to ArcGIS Online as the SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database Feature Layer (hosted). To do this, in ArcGIS Pro, the samples database manager selects the group layer in the contents pane and choses 'Share' > 'Share As Web Layer' > 'Publish'. Other supporting documents and files are also published to the web for user access, which includes this metadata record (.txt and .xml), a version history document (version_history_SPCMSC_samples_database.docx) and a comma-separated values (CSV) file (SPCMSC_samples_database.csv) export of the database. These files are published as a CSV Collection (SPCMSC_samples_database.zip) item in ArcGIS Online and are uploaded directly to the item using a web browser. Next, the samples database manager sends an email request to the USGS Enterprise GIS (EGIS) team to make the ArcGIS Online items (Feature Layer (hosted) and CSV collection) publicly available. During the first time publishing the database, the hosted feature layer was added to the SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Map. This was completed by opening the existing ArcGIS Online web map (generated from the previous publishing methodology) and replacing the prior web service URL to the database with the URL of the new hosted feature layer. In subsequent updates, this web map is automatically updated with new data once the hosted feature layer is published and made public. This web map is also linked to the SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Mapping Application, and automatically updates within the application. The SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database is republished approximately every six months. During republishing, the same steps are followed but the older copy of the database feature class in the geodatabase is renamed to append the date of the last update in YYYYMMDD format. The data source for the group layer is also updated to the new feature class source, which reloads and updates the dataset while preserving the previously set definition queries and symbology. Next, the hosted feature layer is overwritten by clicking on the group layer and selecting Share > Overwrite Web Layer > Publish. Upon overwriting the layer, it is no longer publicly shared, and the samples database manager will send an email to the USGS EGIS team requesting the item be made public again. This may result in a brief downtime, where the database may be unavailable to users. At this time, the ArcGIS Online CSV Collection item is also updated with the newest files by the samples database manager via the ArcGIS Online website. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Attn: Breanna N. Williams

   Geographer

   600 4th Street South

   St. Petersburg, Florida
   

   USA

   727-502-8000 (voice)

   bnwilliams@usgs.gov

   Data sources used in this process:

   • SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database

   Data sources produced in this process:

   • SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database Feature Layer (hosted)
   • SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Mapping Application
   • SPCMSC Core Viewer Web Map
   • SPCMSC_samples_database.csv
   • version_history_SPCMSC_samples_database.docx
   • SPCMSC_samples_database.zip

3. What similar or related data should the user be aware of?
   Williams, Breanna N., and Schreppel, Heather A., 20220916, The USGS SPCMSC Geologic Core and Sample Database: Esri, ArcGIS Online.

   Online Links:

   • https://doi.org/10.5066/P9X3XFIN

   Williams, Breanna N., and Schreppel, Heather A., 20130725, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center's Geologic Core and Sample Database: U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Online.

   Online Links:

   • https://www.sciencebase.gov/catalog/item/607eca01d34e8564d6809dfc

   Curators of Marine and Lacustrine Geological Samples Consortium, 20151009, The Index to Marine and Lacustrine Geological Samples (IMLGS): NOAA NCEI, Online.

   Online Links:

   • https://doi.org/10.7289/V5H41PB8

How reliable are the data; what problems remain in the data set?

1. How well have the observations been checked?
   The validity or accuracy of information on the geologic samples and cores are dependent on individual surveys and the availability of information regarding historic field collection procedures. Database fields have been left blank when the information could not be obtained from available records and publications. Latitude/Longitude coordinates of field locations where cores and samples were collected could not always be determined, particularly for samples or cores obtained prior to the availability of Global Positioning System (GPS). Therefore, some locations should be considered approximate. The error for location coordinates ranges considerably depending on the date of collection and the availability of information in existing records. Samples or cores whose collection locations have been approximated are indicated as such in the geog_approx field. Consult the associated publication(s) for that sample or core for more information regarding locational accuracy.
2. How accurate are the geographic locations?
   The coordinates for many of the cores collected prior to GPS technology are generalized and based on general descriptions of field surveys; therefore, the spatial error can be up to several hundred meters. With the use of modern GPS tools, most samples and cores collected after 1991 have the potential to be more accurate; however, no estimate of accuracy has been conducted. Consult the associated publication(s) for that sample or core for more information regarding horizontal positional accuracy details.
3. How accurate are the heights or depths?
   
4. Where are the gaps in the data? What is missing?
   Data are considered complete and available records for samples and cores published by the U.S. Geological Survey's St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center are found within the database. Unpublished records for samples or cores are not included in the publicly available version of the database.
5. How consistent are the relationships among the observations, including topology?
   This database includes samples and cores collected during multiple field activities and various publications; therefore, no fidelity checks have been conducted. Samples or cores may have the same coordinates due to close proximity and spatial accuracy of geographic records.

How can someone get a copy of the data set?

1. Who distributes the data set? (Distributor 1 of 1)
   
   U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Attn: USGS SPCMSC Data Management Group

   Data Management

   600 4th Street South

   St. Petersburg, Florida
   

   USA

   727-502-8000 (voice)

   gs-g-spcmsc_data_inquiries@usgs.gov
2. What's the catalog number I need to order this data set?
3. What legal disclaimers am I supposed to read?
   This publication was prepared by an agency of the United States Government. Although these data have been processed successfully on a computer system at the U.S. Geological Survey, no warranty expressed or implied is made regarding the display or utility of the data on any other system, nor shall the act of distribution imply any such warranty. The U.S. Geological Survey shall not be held liable for improper or incorrect use of the data described and (or) contained herein. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government or any agency thereof.
4. How can I download or order the data?
   • Availability in digital form:

     Data format:	feature services, comma-delimited text, Microsoft Word document
     Network links:	https://doi.org/10.5066/F7319TR3 https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=4add5d8cbc9f4ea48c8797b859a53491 https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=a5d63eeb709d49b188a260c70376fb94 https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=3012a799c82e486fb2c25751bd605962

   • Cost to order the data: None, if obtained online

Who wrote the metadata?

Dates:

Last modified: 14-Sep-2022

Metadata author:

U.S. Geological Survey - St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center

Attn: Breanna Williams

Geographer

600 4th Street South

St. Petersburg, FL

USA

727-502-8000 (voice)

bnwilliams@usgs.gov

Metadata standard:

Content Standard for Digital Geospatial Metadata (FGDC-STD-001-1998)