ABSTRACT
In Louisiana, a low-lying state on the Gulf coastal plain, one such problem is that there is limited availability of rock or stone because virtually the entire state consists of Tertiary and Quaternary sediments. Gravel production has been relatively steady in Louisiana, with annual production ranging from about 5-13 million metric t/yr since 1950. Thus, the geologic-geomorphic units in Louisiana were divided into areas of relative suitability for aggregate exploration. Regional mapping of aggregate suitability was accomplished by using the Geologic Map of Louisiana with some modifications of terminology. The sand and gravel industry has a precarious future in Louisiana because of the environmental effects associated with floodplain mining, more awareness of liability, the growing involvement of regulatory agencies, and the increasing operating costs.
