Explanation subsurface models

Data and information on the structure and properties of the subsurface of the Netherlands is of prime importance for the sustainable use and management of the resources beneath our feet. The Geological Survey of the Netherlands – TNO systematically constructs 3D models based on the hundreds of thousands of borehole data and cone penetration tests held in the DINO database and decades of geological mapping experience.

The models predict the geometry and occurrence of unconsolidated sediments, such as sand, clay and peat in the subsurface. The models can be used as a starting point for e.g. groundwater surveys and the forecast of subsidence. The models also contribute to the insight in the geological development of the Netherlands and they are important building blocks for further geoscientific research.

For the shallow subsurface (to a depth of 500 m) the Geological Survey has developed three models: the Digital Geological Model (DGM), the Hydrogeological Model (REGIS II) and GeoTOP. All three models are freely available via the internet: www.dinoloket.nl.

The Geological map of the Kingdom of the Netherlands shows the geological deposits of the upper meters of the subsurface. The map covers the Netherlands, the Dutch Continental Shelf, and the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.

Subsurfacemodels on DINOloket

On the DINOloket, the models are available in several options:

Various visualisations of the models are available in the Subsurface Models module. By requesting the datasets, the models can be visualised in your own environment/on your own computer in ArcGIS or with the freely available SubsurfaceViewer. The geological map can be downloaded in various GIS formats. You can choose between the map of the Netherlands & the Dutch Continental Shelf or the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. In addition, the map can be downloaded as a PDF that covers all parts of the Kingdom.