Media Alert: Low-level flights to image geology of southern Colorado

The flights are a collaborative effort between the USGS and the Colorado Geological Survey.

"Partnership with state surveys helps accomplish national goals like mapping the critical minerals the U.S. needs. The Colorado Geological Survey is helping with the work of the nation -- and adding to state knowledge crucial to water resources, hazards and the resource economy," said Jamey Jones, science coordinator for the U.S. Geological Survey's Earth Mapping Resource Initiative.

"Modern airborne geophysical surveys provide an unprecedented view of the geology beneath the surface and represent a valuable investment in our scientific understanding of Colorado. The data collected in the East San Juan Mountains will help advance our knowledge of the region's geology and mineral systems while supporting future geologic mapping, resource assessments, groundwater investigations, and other scientific studies. These publicly available data will benefit not only ongoing work at the Colorado Geological Survey, but also researchers, land managers, industry, and decision-makers across the state and nation for years to come," said Matt Morgan, Colorado State Geologist.

The survey is designed to map rocks within the south-central Colorado Mineral Belt, which is known to have rocks with critical mineral potential. The planned survey includes magnetic and radiometric data collected from a helicopter along flight lines spaced 660 feet (200 meters) apart at a height of 320 feet (100 meters). The survey also spans a critical groundwater recharge area for the San Luis Valley.

The USGS has contracted with NV5 Geospatial and Precision GeoSurveys to collect the airborne data. Their AS350 helicopter will be equipped with an elongated "stinger" that extends from the main cabin which houses sensors collecting data. These scientific instruments are completely passive with no emissions that pose a risk to humans, animals, or plant life. No photography or video data will be collected. The aircraft will be flown by experienced pilots who are specially trained and approved for low-level flying. These pilots work with the FAA to ensure flights are safe and in accordance with U.S. law. The surveys will be conducted during daylight hours only.

Flights will be based out of several regional airports and will fly over the following Colorado and New Mexico counties: Conejos; Gunnison; Hinsdale; Mineral; Rio Grande; Saguache; Rio Arriba.

The survey fits into a broader effort by the USGS, the Colorado Geological survey, and other partners-including private companies, academics and state and federal agencies-to modernize our understanding of the nation's fundamental geologic framework and knowledge of mineral resources, and to identify energy and groundwater resources and natural hazards.

This effort is known as the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative, and it includes airborne geophysical surveys like this one, geochemical reconnaissance surveys, topographic mapping using LiDAR technology, hyperspectral surveys, and geologic mapping projects.