Media Alert: Low-level flights to image geology over portions of the Blue Mountains in northeastern Oregon and western Idaho

The flights are part of the U.S. Geological Survey's Earth Mapping Resources Initiative, a national effort to modernize mapping of critical minerals and the nation's geology. Earth MRI is a partnership with Oregon's Department of Geology and Mineral Industries and other state geological surveys, as well as industry and universities.

"Partnership with state surveys helps accomplish national goals like mapping the critical minerals the U.S. needs. Investigators at Oregon's Department of Geology and Mineral Industries are helping with the work of the nation -- and adding to state knowledge crucial to water resources, hazards and the resource economy," said Jamey Jones, science coordinator for the U.S. Geological Survey's Earth Mapping Resources Initiative.

"DOGAMI is excited to partner with the USGS on an airborne geophysical survey of this magnitude and importance. The data returned will significantly enhance ongoing and planned geologic studies in the region. DOGAMI is already on the ground performing geological mapping, with much more planned," said Oregon State Geologist Ruarri Day-Stirrat, Director of DOGAMI.

Potential mineral commodities in the region include antimony, chromium, cobalt, gallium, nickel, tungsten, and zinc, all of which are on the List of Critical Minerals maintained by the USGS as essential for the U.S. economy and national security. One industrial use of cobalt is for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries used in computers, power tools and vehicles. There is also additional potential for copper, silver and gold in the survey area. In addition, this survey will improve understanding of geothermal and water resources and seismic hazards of the region.

The USGS has contracted with the Merrick-Surdex JV and New-Sense Geophysics to collect the airborne data. Their helicopter aircraft will be equipped with an elongated "stinger" that houses sensors collecting data and extends in front of the main cabin. These scientific instruments are completely passive with no emissions that pose a risk to humans, animals, or plant life. No photography or video data will be collected. The aircraft will be flown by experienced pilots who are specially trained and approved for low-level flying. These pilots work with the FAA to ensure flights are safe and in accordance with U.S. law. The surveys will be conducted during daylight hours only.

Flights will be based out of the nearby airports, including Oxbow Airport, Baker City Airport, Bald Mountain Airport, Huntington, Lockhart Airport, and Ellingson Airstrip.