Fracture-trace or lineament analysis is a technique that makes use of surface features on aerial photographs and satellite images to locate zones of structural weaknesses within the earth’s crust. These structural zones are usually between two and 20 meters in width and may be continuous for distances more than a kilometer. They may contain just a fracture system or several fracture systems. The use of lineament in selecting well sites is most useful in consolidated rock terrains, such as igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks, where groundwater is confined to “breaks” in the earth’s crust.

Fracture trace analysis is not a straightforward technique but rather an act. However, MEK staff have widely and successfully used this technique as our first line of action in groundwater exploration in some of the most difficult hydrogeological terrains. We have the knowledge and skillsets to identify natural linear features that are indicative of the presence of groundwater in “tight” hydrogeological terrains. Our efforts have improved well drilling success rates by 20 to 85 percent (in different rock formations) and have also led to significant improvements in well yields (i.e., amount of water coming from the well).

MEK has the expertise to conduct comprehensive land cover and land use studies using a combination of remotely sensed data and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to identify, delineate, and map land cover (vegetation, water bodies, soils, urban infrastructure, etc.) for resource planning, management, monitoring, and determining long-term changes in land cover and usage. Our consultants have the experience to utilize information collectively derived from topographic maps, remotely sensed data, aerial photographs, GIS, and field studies to successfully carry out the following:

•   Baseline mapping for GIS input;
•   Urban expansion/encroachment studies;
•   Natural resources management;
•   Routing and logistics planning;
•   Damage delineation;
•   Target detection (e.g., land/water interface, roads); and
•   Identification and categorization of natural and man-made attributes using an appropriate classification system.

Using remotely sensed data, GIS techniques, and an appropriate classification system and theme, our team will undertake and successfully complete the following studies for our clients in the agricultural sector:

•   Assessment of degraded land;
•   Soil categorization and mapping;
•   Assessment of irrigated agricultural lands;
•   Inventory and mapping of agricultural lands;
•   Farm planning and plot layout; and
•   Assessment of changes in agricultural land usage over time.

Satellite imagery analysis and interpretation can be invaluable in the analysis, assessment, and management of forests. In general, this analysis will require accurate “land cover and change” analysis. MEK has the experience to conduct comprehensive studies related to urban sprawl, forest fragmentation, land cover, and change detection analysis to assist in making informed decisions regarding the management of ecosystem species diversity, forest health, reforestation, soil conservation, water resources, and nutrient cycling.

Synoptic coverage of the earth’s surface by satellite images and aerial photographs has made the analysis of geological features possible at a regional scale. Over the years, our staff have utilized multi-spectral, high-resolution, and decipherable images to identify different soil and rock types and delineate geologic structures in more detail with greater accuracy to determine and/or reconstruct structural geological features, such as fold and faults, and possible locations of natural deposits (hydrothermal alterations) within different rock formations.

Information derived from the analysis of remote sensing data or satellite images can provide very useful information for regional site investigations and planning. Using remotely sensed data and GIS information, MEK will analyze and provide invaluable topographic (terrain) and geological (soil and rock type) information to assist in formulating sound engineering development plans. Our capable staff will conduct terrain mapping and analysis assessment using digital elevation models for specific engineering investigations when requested.

We have successfully used electromagnetic techniques to locate prolific water-bearing aquifers in consolidated rock aquifers over the years. In particular, our geophysicists have utilized EM-34 to locate relatively shallow (< 30m) and narrow water-bearing fracture zones in igneous and meta-sediments. MEK geophysicists have significant experience in deep geophysical sounding to locate aquifers and have used the TEM technique to successfully locate stratigraphic units and discriminate between fresh and saline aquifers.

The MEK team has also used the DC electrical resistivity technique to locate nearly horizontal to horizontal inter-bedded permeable water-bearing stratigraphic units sandwiched between non-water bearing formations. In a number of circumstances, our geophysicists have used the combination of DC electrical resistivity, electrical resistivity tomography, and TEM techniques to locate freshwater aquifers. Our geophysicists will ensure that the most productive and sustainable aquifers are selected for development.

Our team has used electromagnetic techniques (EM 31 and EM 38) extensively to map the spatial distribution of soil attributes, including clay content, soil moisture, soil salinity, contaminant plumes, and landfills. We have also successfully employed these techniques for locating buried objects, such as tanks and pipelines. Our vast experience in this area has prepared us to conduct these surveys in any environmental setting.

MEK geophysicists have been involved in numerous subsurface site investigations, integrating traditional geologic mapping and intrusive sampling with geophysical profiling and sounding techniques to obtain in-depth characterizations of site conditions at reduced cost for our clients. Using a combination of the above-mentioned techniques, MEK geophysicists have successfully addressed numerous challenges arising in the construction industry.