Requests for SAFOD core and cuttings samples will be entertained approximately every six months according to established target dates posted annually on the EarthScope and ICDP websites. The next target date is January 1, 2009. The SAFOD Data Manager (SDM) will organize and collate all requests received by these dates and forward them to the SAFOD Sample Committee (SSC), with a copy sent to the NSF, for detailed review and approval.

The SSC recommends how the SAFOD samples might best be allocated in a manner that maximizes the scientific return from the available samples while preserving adequate samples for future study. The Gulf Coast Repository (GCR) (where all SAFOD samples are stored) prepares and distributes samples to the requesting investigators. The GCR will maintain full records on sample distribution, which are regularly submitted to the NSF and entered into the EarthScope/SAFOD web site by the SAFOD Data Manager.

For further information, please review the PDF document SAFOD Core Distribution [PDF] or contact the EarthScope Program Director at the National Science Foundation (kshedloc@nsf.gov).