Combined use of frequency-domain electromagnetic and electrical resistivity surveys to delineate near-lake groundwater flow in the semi-arid Nebraska Sand Hills, USA

Authors

John T. Ong, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
John W. Lane Jr., U.S. Geological Survey
Vitaly A. Zlotnik, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Todd Halihan, Oklahoma State University - Main Campus
Eric A. White, U.S. Geological Survey

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

2010

Comments

Published by Ong, Lane, Zlotnik, Halihan & White in Hydrogeology Journal (2010)

Abstract

A frequency-domain electromagnetic (FDEM) survey can be used to select locations for the more quantitative and labor-intensive electrical resistivity surveys. The FDEM survey rapidly characterized the groundwaterflow directions and configured the saline plumes caused by evaporation from several groundwater-dominated lakes in the Nebraska Sand Hills, USA. The FDEM instrument was mounted on a fiberglass cart and towed by an all-terrain vehicle, covering about 25km/day. Around the saline lakes, areas with high electrical conductivity are consistent with the regional and local groundwater flow directions. The efficacy of this geophysical approach is attributed to: the high contrast in electrical conductivity between various groundwater zones; the shallow location of the saline zones; minimal cultural interference; and relative homogeneity of the aquifer materials.