Application of Resistivity Surveys to Regional Hydrogeologic Reconnaissance

Vertical electrical soundings using DC resistivity methods have been completed along over 60 miles of survey lines in southwest Florida. The resistivity soundings were obtained in order to outline major hydrogeologic features as part of a regional hydrogeologic investigation covering approximately 400 square miles. The two significant hydrogeologic features which can be effectively mapped on a regional scale by DC methods are the presence of shallow, high resistivity limestones associated with late Tertiary reef complexes, and the approximate depth to waters with TDS concentrations well above the potable water limits. The reef limestones commonly exhibit very high transmissivities and are potential sites for ground-water development. The approximate thickness of potable waters allows resource investigations to be limited to the most promising areas and a rough assessment of the total resource to be made for long-term planning. The interpretation and mapping of the resistivity section is accomplished through published resistivity inversion and computer graphics programs. This automated data processing produces resistivity maps and sections without requiring extensive geophysical training of the interpreter. The automatic interpretations compare well with more traditional master curve interpretation procedures, and have the same limitations with equivalence of solutions and geologic correlation, but are produced with considerably less effort.