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The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is conducting an Airborne Electromagnetic (AEM) Survey project in Southwestern and Southeastern Wisconsin.
The survey is in partnership with Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
The survey will use airborne electromagnetic (AEM) technology to better understand how surface water and groundwater are connected, and the geometry of different aquifer units. To accomplish this, AEM data will be collected to image surficial confining units, shallow aquifers, and bedrock units. The use of a helicopter-towed AEM sensor (looks like a large hoop hanging from a cable) for this type of evaluation uses cutting-edge technology and provides accurate science-based data about below-ground properties that are otherwise difficult to assess over large areas. This project is in response to public feedback on groundwater quality, limited data on depth to bedrock, and to further define aquifer properties in relation to surface activities.
Flights are expected to start in late February/early March 2022 and exact dates will be weather dependent. At this time, surveying will take place in the following counties: Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, Green, Waukesha, Walworth, Racine, and Kenosha.
Much of Wisconsin’s drinking water comes from groundwater and groundwater sources. Degradation of groundwater quality has been a rising concern as well as the influence of groundwater connections to our streams. Having a better understanding of aquifer properties as well as connectivity to the surface (depth to bedrock), allows practical guidance for the development of approaches to maintain a healthy groundwater system. Using AEM allows scientists to develop a 3D image of the subsurface geology to better predict how water moves through those layers and how groundwater and surface water are connected.
This survey supports public health efforts to help protect groundwater and promote water quality. The results of the survey will:
Create a better understanding of aquifer properties
Address groundwater quality
Improves understanding of the influence of surface activities (agriculture, mining, development, etc.) on groundwater quality
This project uses the strength of local, state, and federal resources to help many citizens in southern Wisconsin.
Map of where the helicopter will be flying:
General footage of the surveying equipment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSTddN9njuk
Example of how to view and use the data: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fbCZLgQPl8
| Topic | Agency | Contact | Phone | |
| Southwest Wisconsin flight | USGS | Matt Komiskey | mjkomisk@usgs.gov | 608-821-3930 |
| AEM survey and flight paths | USGS | Burke Minsley | bminsley@usgs.gov | 303-236-5718 |
| Southeast Wisconsin flight | USGS | Jim Duncker | jduncker@usgs.gov | 217-493-7512 |
| Southeast Wisconsin flight | USGS | Judith Thomas | juthomas@usgs.gov | 779-400-6583 |
| WGNHS | Dave Hart | david.hart@wisc.edu | 608-262-2307 |
Below is media associated with this project.
Geophysical equipment loop with sensor from SKYTEM for electromagnetic (AEM) survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop with sensor from SKYTEM for electromagnetic (AEM) survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Smiley face on front of electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Smiley face on front of electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop on ground below attached via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop on ground below attached via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop below attached via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop below attached via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop for airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey on ground prior to liftoff. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop for airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey on ground prior to liftoff. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
USGS employees and cooperators watching and photographing helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop below attached via slingload. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
USGS employees and cooperators watching and photographing helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop below attached via slingload. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop for airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey on ground prior to liftoff. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop for airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey on ground prior to liftoff. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Helicopter used to tow electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter used to tow electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Photo of helicopter with geophysical equipment loop deployed below it via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Photo of helicopter with geophysical equipment loop deployed below it via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Low-flying helicopter with geophysical equipment loop deployed below it via slingload. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Low-flying helicopter with geophysical equipment loop deployed below it via slingload. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is conducting an Airborne Electromagnetic (AEM) Survey project in Southwestern and Southeastern Wisconsin.
The survey is in partnership with Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
The survey will use airborne electromagnetic (AEM) technology to better understand how surface water and groundwater are connected, and the geometry of different aquifer units. To accomplish this, AEM data will be collected to image surficial confining units, shallow aquifers, and bedrock units. The use of a helicopter-towed AEM sensor (looks like a large hoop hanging from a cable) for this type of evaluation uses cutting-edge technology and provides accurate science-based data about below-ground properties that are otherwise difficult to assess over large areas. This project is in response to public feedback on groundwater quality, limited data on depth to bedrock, and to further define aquifer properties in relation to surface activities.
Flights are expected to start in late February/early March 2022 and exact dates will be weather dependent. At this time, surveying will take place in the following counties: Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, Green, Waukesha, Walworth, Racine, and Kenosha.
Much of Wisconsin’s drinking water comes from groundwater and groundwater sources. Degradation of groundwater quality has been a rising concern as well as the influence of groundwater connections to our streams. Having a better understanding of aquifer properties as well as connectivity to the surface (depth to bedrock), allows practical guidance for the development of approaches to maintain a healthy groundwater system. Using AEM allows scientists to develop a 3D image of the subsurface geology to better predict how water moves through those layers and how groundwater and surface water are connected.
This survey supports public health efforts to help protect groundwater and promote water quality. The results of the survey will:
Create a better understanding of aquifer properties
Address groundwater quality
Improves understanding of the influence of surface activities (agriculture, mining, development, etc.) on groundwater quality
This project uses the strength of local, state, and federal resources to help many citizens in southern Wisconsin.
Map of where the helicopter will be flying:
General footage of the surveying equipment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSTddN9njuk
Example of how to view and use the data: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fbCZLgQPl8
| Topic | Agency | Contact | Phone | |
| Southwest Wisconsin flight | USGS | Matt Komiskey | mjkomisk@usgs.gov | 608-821-3930 |
| AEM survey and flight paths | USGS | Burke Minsley | bminsley@usgs.gov | 303-236-5718 |
| Southeast Wisconsin flight | USGS | Jim Duncker | jduncker@usgs.gov | 217-493-7512 |
| Southeast Wisconsin flight | USGS | Judith Thomas | juthomas@usgs.gov | 779-400-6583 |
| WGNHS | Dave Hart | david.hart@wisc.edu | 608-262-2307 |
Below is media associated with this project.
Geophysical equipment loop with sensor from SKYTEM for electromagnetic (AEM) survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop with sensor from SKYTEM for electromagnetic (AEM) survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Smiley face on front of electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Smiley face on front of electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop on ground below attached via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop on ground below attached via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop below attached via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop below attached via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop for airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey on ground prior to liftoff. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop for airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey on ground prior to liftoff. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
USGS employees and cooperators watching and photographing helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop below attached via slingload. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
USGS employees and cooperators watching and photographing helicopter lifting off with geophysical equipment loop below attached via slingload. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop for airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey on ground prior to liftoff. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Geophysical equipment loop for airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey on ground prior to liftoff. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Research geophysicist Burke Minsley discussing aerial electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment with group of USGS employees and Cooperators at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in t
Helicopter used to tow electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Helicopter used to tow electromagnetic (AEM) survey equipment at AEM survey in southwest Wisconsin 2022. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Photo of helicopter with geophysical equipment loop deployed below it via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Photo of helicopter with geophysical equipment loop deployed below it via slingload. Technician on ground for scale. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Low-flying helicopter with geophysical equipment loop deployed below it via slingload. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.
Low-flying helicopter with geophysical equipment loop deployed below it via slingload. In March 2022, a helicopter carried an airborne electromagnetic induction sensor over parts of southeast and southwest Wisconsin as part of a USGS study to map the aquifers in the region.