The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has launched an extensive project to map Colorado’s geological history using low-flying helicopters equipped with sophisticated geophysical instruments. Starting in mid-August 2024, these flights will span multiple counties in north-central Colorado, including Boulder, Chaffee, and Clear Creek. The project aims to last up to three months, depending on weather and wildfire conditions.
The survey’s primary goal is to enhance the understanding of Colorado’s geological history, particularly within the Colorado Mineral Belt, a region rich in essential mineral resources critical to the nation’s security and economy.
By collecting detailed geophysical data, the USGS aims to develop high-resolution, three-dimensional models of bedrock composition and structure. These models will provide critical insights into mineral resource potential, groundwater pathways, and infrastructure planning while shedding light on the region’s 2-billion-year-old geological history.
Covering vast stretches of Colorado, the helicopters will operate out of regional airports in Leadville and Longmont, with the potential to shift as necessary for optimal data collection. The flights will occur only during daylight hours and are expected to span up to three months, depending on conditions. This Colorado Geological Mapping effort is crucial for better understanding the area’s subsurface features.
The helicopters will fly approximately 300 feet above the ground but will increase their altitude to 1,000 feet over populated areas to minimize disturbances. The aircraft will follow pre-planned north-south flight paths, spaced about 3,280 feet apart.
The survey uses helicopters equipped with an elongated “stinger” mounted to the underside of the cabin. This stinger, along with instruments inside the cabin, will measure variations in the Earth’s magnetic field and natural low-level radiation caused by different rock types.
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This data is crucial for mapping subsurface geological features and will contribute significantly to the Colorado Geological Mapping project.
Impact:
The collected data will be processed to create detailed 3D maps, which will be made publicly available upon completion. These maps are expected to provide valuable insights into Colorado’s mineral resources, guide water resource management, and inform land-use planning.
Additionally, this survey is one of three airborne surveys mapping the Colorado Mineral Belt. The southwestern block was completed in 2023, and a central block survey is ongoing following a winter hiatus.
The USGS has contracted NV5 Geospatial, Edcon-PRJ, and Precision GeoSurveys to collect the data for this Colorado Geological Mapping survey. The project is expected to have far-reaching implications, not only for resource management and environmental protection but also for the economic development of Colorado.
References: USGS Media Alert on Low-level Helicopter Flights USGS.gov
