The Michigan Geological Repository for Research and Education is an important component of the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences and of Western Michigan University. This facility enables faculty to continue the original Michigan Basin Core Research Laboratory's mission of conducting Michigan subsurface geological research and technology transfer focused on oil and gas exploration and development and carbon dioxide sequestration. MGRRE’s faculty and students also conduct geological research about geothermal energy, glacial geology and mapping, groundwater aquifers, subsurface mineral deposits and the geological history of the Michigan Basin.
The 27,000 square-foot MGRRE facility archives the most comprehensive collection of geological samples and data in the state of Michigan, including approximately 530,000 linear feet of rock cores. These cores were drilled during oil, gas and mineral exploration; environmental research; and geological mapping projects. Datasets about subsurface resources are provided through the internet and are also disseminated through the National Data Catalogue. Educational activities include K-12 and post-graduate training and industry outreach. In addition, MGRRE provides a number of industry services, such as:
- Field-to-regional-level geological research projects.
- Searchable online databases.
- Cutting-edge technology workshops offered via our role as the Michigan Center for the Petroleum Technology Transfer Council.
- Sample and data archives.
For a quick summary of our facility, staff, research and achievements, please see our Fact Sheet and Key Achievements.