Hydrogeophysics

Surface and near-surface imaging techniques are revolutionizing scientists’ ability to characterize and monitor processes at and near Earth’s surface. Airborne geophysics can now produce models of subsurface electrical conductivity and magnetization over large areas. Near-surface geophysical techniques provide estimates of physical properties and geological structure in the subsurface in two or even three dimensions. Modern “hydrogeophysics” can provide, via non-invasive, relatively inexpensive, spatially extensive methods, in situ estimates of moisture content, porosity, hydraulic conductivity, geological structure, subsurface elastic properties, and joint/fracture density.

The WyCEHG hydrogeophysics team will acquire near-surface geophysical data in our focus sites, in order to produce the best possible images of subsurface properties. When combined with geochemical, hydrological, and ecological data, these data will provide the synoptic views of watershed-scale structure and hydrological processes needed for breakthrough science.

At our disposal in this research will be the near-surface geophysical instrumentation of FINSE (the Facility for Imaging the Near- and Sub-surface Environment). You can read more about FINSE equipment here.

Figure. GPR radargram from Laramie Range, Wyoming. Reflections correspond to subsurface fractures