Iowa-Minnesota: USGS sets gravity gradient survey

The US Geological Survey has let a contract to Bell Geospace to assist in a comprehensive, high-resolution airborne survey to assess minerals and water potential in northeastern Iowa and southeastern Minnesota.

In the project, to run through January 2013, USGS scientists will use state-of-the-art 3D subsurface maps to help determine if nickel, copper, and platinum group elements exist as in the Midcontinent Rift region. Secondary to this mission, an evaluation will be made of the geologic structure as it relates to water resources.

USGS Director Marcia McNutt said Bell Geospace will fly the 3D-full tensor gravity gradient survey 100-500 ft above the ground using a turbo-powered DC-3 aircraft.

McNutt said, “The USGS uses the latest technology to find new sources of the valuable commodities, even when buried deep beneath the Earth’s surface.”