The Logic (or lack of it) of Environmental Geophysics - Examples from the Ogallala Aquifer

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Meeting ID: 932 0137 7630
Passcode: 013011

Presenter

Todd Halihan, Ph.D., P.Gp.
Professor
Boone Pickens School of Geology
Oklahoma State University

Description

Scientists assume problems are logical, but not when humans are involved! Investigating the subsurface requires evaluating a system with highly variable parameters, which can be simplified as lognormally distributed. The medical and hydrocarbon industries have approached complexity by utilizing geophysics prior to significant intrusive work, either surgery or drilling. The logic of these industries is that geophysics provides information to make invasive work, like drilling, more targeted and effective. While adding cost to the front of the project, the total project costs and associated risks are lower. The environmental industry utilizes geophysics, but not on a standard or consistent basis. Looking at environmental and water quality projects, this seminar evaluates the factors that adversely affect the industry due to the framework currently used for applying geophysics in the field, using the Ogallala Aquifer as a useful example.