NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Tags: physical sciences, geology, hydrocarbon exploration

Objective(s): To improve the public understanding of geology in the region, including folding and faulting, stratigraphic relationships, tectonic history, and unique hydrocarbon and mineral potential of Devonian strata.

Project Description: The objective of this research is to improve the public understanding of geology in the region, including folding and faulting, stratigraphic relationships, tectonic history, and unique hydrocarbon and mineral potential of Devonian strata. This objective includes sharing geoscience information with all interested parties through the production of geology maps or reports and journal papers on the geology in the regions of interest to this study. This work will be an examination of bedrock outcrops within the designated study areas. All work is done by small crews (2-3 people) working mainly on foot. Helicopters are used to set out crews, pick them up, and ferry them between outcrop sites. The work is mainly visual examination, description, measurement, and photography of outcrops. GPS units will locate the position of the outcrops on maps. Data resulting from the examination of outcrops will be used to plot maps and diagrams showing how rock units are distributed throughout the study area. The research team will also take rock samples from some outcrops, using hammers and chisels. Most are fist-sized but some are the size of one or two loaves of bread. Samples are studied in the laboratory to help understand the ages of the rock units and what rock units might contain resources underground. Information from this research will be of interest to Gwich’in and Sahtu communities and organizations, and to others (e.g., people interested in the local environment, resource exploration companies, researchers, land-use planners), and can assist in encouraging socially and environmentally responsible resource development. This work may help local communities and organizations to understand what areas are or are not promising for resource exploration. It will not necessarily lead to new exploration or economic development in the area but it can help communities understand their land’s resource potential and foster wise development of their land. All reports and maps prepared by the research team will be made publicly available for free download on NRCan's GeoGratis website: http://geogratis.gc.ca. Relevant reports and maps can also be mailed to communities upon request. Community presentations could be arranged in response to local interest. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from August 1, 2016 to August 20, 2016.