Bell Geospace Contracted by USGS for Important Iowa and Minnesota Survey

Bell Geospace, the World leaders in Gravity Gradiometry, has been contracted by the United States Geological Survey to assist in a comprehensive, high-resolution airborne survey to study the rock layers in northeastern Iowa and southeastern Minnesota.  The project, running through January 2013, will help researchers in an assessment of mineral and water resources of the region. 

USGS scientists plan to use the 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.

“Modern society is critically dependent on clean water and a vast array of minerals to maintain and enhance our quality of life,” said USGS Director Marcia McNutt.  “The USGS uses the latest technology to find new sources of the valuable commodities, even when buried deep beneath the Earth’s surface.”

Due to its ability to fly close to the ground (100-500 feet above ground), Bell Geospace will use their BT67 (Turbo modified DC-3) aircraft to conduct a 3D-Full Tensor Gravity Gradient survey.  The DC-3 has been retrofitted with modern avionics, electronics and gas turbine engines so as to eliminate any health risk to people or animals.  “We are pleased to be included in this important survey,” said Bell Geospace CEO Scott Hammond.  “We recognize the impact this project might have on the region and are confident that the 3D-FTG will exceed USGS scientist’s expectations.”

###

In 1994 Bell Geospace, a private company, was the first to commercialize the use of Full Tensor Gravity (FTG) for resource exploration.  Since then, Bell Geospace has flown over 1 million kilometers using this technology and providing their clients with the most precise data in the industry.  Bell Geospace has offices in North America and Europe.  More on Bell Geospace may be found at www.BellGeo.com.

Media Contact:

Shannon Selph

Rhino Marketing

sselph@rhinomarketing.cc

713.681.6711