Yukon Stream Sediment Geochemistry Compilation 1976-2006

30,000 stream sediment samples from Yukon, analyzed using three methods: AAS, INAA, and ICPMS. This compilation updates a 2003 release and includes reanalysis of 24,000 samples for improved detection limits and element range. Data is organized into six feature classes by analytical method.

Use Cases

• Compare elemental concentrations from INAA and ICPMS feature classes to assess analytical method differences.
• Analyze geochemical trends over the 1976-2006 collection period using sample location and timestamp data.
• Identify pathfinder elements like Au, As, Sb, and W using the RGS_INAA feature class for mineral exploration targeting.
• Integrate site-specific physiography and water quality data from the RGS_SITE_WATER feature class with geochemical results for environmental studies.

Strengths

• Compiles over 30,000 physical samples providing substantial spatial coverage for Yukon.
• Includes reanalysis of 24,000 samples via ICPMS, offering upgraded detection limits and a broader range of elements.
• Data spans a 30-year collection period from 1976 to 2006, enabling temporal trend analysis.
• Organized into six distinct feature classes (e.g., RGS_INAA, RGS_ICPMS) for method-specific analysis.

Limitations

• AAS method data is noted as partially digesting samples, making it inaccurate for REE, Ta, Nb, As, Sb, Sn, Hg, Cr, or Au determinations.
• Sample collection ended in 2006, making the data temporally stale for current environmental or exploration assessments.
• The dataset's structure across multiple feature classes may require significant integration effort for holistic analysis.

Provenance

Source

Government of Yukon

Collection Method

Stream sediment samples collected and analyzed using AAS, INAA/FA-NA, and ICPMS methods on the minus 0.177 mm fraction.

Time Range

1976 to 2006

Freshness

Last updated in March 2026, though underlying sample collection ended in 2006.

Geography

Yukon, Canada