Water detection response team geophysics element case histories

Abstract : The U.S. Army Water Detection Response Team is designed to offer assistance to the military in securing water supplies in support of military operations. Currently, the team is staffed by volunteer civilians. However, plans are to transition field operations functions of the team to active or reserve military units. The Geophysics Element of the team develops and maintains capability to apply surface geophysical methods for location of well drilling sites. The Geophysics Element will be deployed only if existing data are insufficient to support assistance requests. The Geophysics Element is equipped to conduct and interpret seismic refraction, electrical resistivity, and very low frequency electromagnetic surveys for water well siting. The response team has assisted requesting major commands in Southwest Asia, Northeast Africa, Central American, and Korea. The Geophysics Element has been deployed to participate in several major military exercises. Case histories of the Geophysics Element involvement in these exercises are presented in this report. Keywords: Geophysical prospecting; Water wells/detection; Stratigraphy; Structural geology; Ground water; Electromagnetic wave reflections; Site selection/hydrology.