May 17, 2023 |
Photo – Map of survey area – Courtesy usgs.gov
In a press release issued May 15 ,2023, the US Geological Survey stated that they and the Wyoming State Geological Survey have partnered together to produce a 3D map of central Wyoming.
Beginning this month, helicopters from the two agencies will fly 300 feet above the surfaces of South Pass, at the southern end of the Wind River Range, and the Granite Mountains, west of Pathfinder Reservoir, to collect geophysical data.
The press release says the equipment used on the helicopters consists of magnetic field and radiation detectors. Geological Survey scientists will use the data to construct a three-dimensional image of the area. The 3D maps will help the scientists locate underground water, mineral, and energy sources.
The US Geological Survey statement pointed out that the survey equipment posed no threat to humans or animals and no pictures or video would be taken. The data will be made available to the public once the research is completed.
The project is part of the US Geological Survey’s Earth Mapping Resources Initiative. According to the USGS website, “Earth MRI will improve our knowledge of the geologic framework in the United States and identify areas that may have the potential to contain undiscovered critical mineral resources.” The stated goal of the project is to strengthen our economy by reducing our country’s reliance on outside mineral production.
For more information about the low-level survey flights, visit the USGS Newsroom and search for state news releases for Wyoming. Or click the following link: Joint Wyoming State Geological Survey-U.S. Geological Survey Effort to Study Mineral Resources in Central Wyoming | U.S. Geological Survey (usgs.gov)
