SMALLMOUTH HUNTER

  The ISGS team of scientists will focus on obtaining seismic geophysical data in the City of Belvidere.  This method is done by introducing seismic waves with a mechanical device on the ground surface and recording the return signals that travel through and bounce off the different geologic materials.  This is another tool that provides geophysical data that can reflect the different geologic layers and geologic structures hidden below. Usually, this process is repeated along a line to create a geologic profile below that line.  The urbanized area northwest of Belvidere has been and continues to be developed with private water wells. Well drillers provide a record of the materials they drilled through and that information is submitted to the Boone County Health Department.  The database from these many wells has been digitized to provide the geologic details of that area.  This information will be incorporated into the map products later in this study.

Looking at the map, our eyes are drawn to the prominent yellowish-tan pattern of airborne data striking a diagonal path across the map of Boone County. This pattern is likely a reflection of the Troy Bedrock Valley.  It is an unprecedented view, even in this raw, unprocessed image, and seems to suggest geological complexities about the bedrock valley that have never been known before. The raw data also includes conspicuous patterns that likely indicate human influences such as powerlines and buried pipelines, the data refinement processes will ultimately remove these distortions as the geologic interpretation is done.   Unraveling the rest of Boone County’s geologic story will help define the role this feature has in connection with our water supply.  The perspective that this one image offers is fascinating, but combining this image with the layers of information above and below it will afford our community a truly exceptional level of precision and confidence to strategically plan and protect the water resources we all depend on.  

It is equally important for you to know that we continue to work at the local level as well.  Boone County officials stressed the need to utilize this new information once it becomes available.  There are many steps needed to make that happen! Public outreach, like this article, informs you about what is being learned, and how we can apply that new knowledge effectively.  Important next steps include reviewing and updating the Regional Stormwater Management Plan and reconvening the Boone County Regional Stormwater Management Committee.  These efforts depend on community collaboration and support.  As always, I encourage you to contact me if you have questions about this project.

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