Lopez, G.P., Brem, A., McGill, D. and McKenzie, J. (2024): Airborne geophysics data analysis and interpretation, northeastern Alberta; Alberta Energy Regulator / Alberta Geological Survey, AER/AGS Special Report 122.
The Alberta Geological Survey (AGS) outsourced the geological interpretation of the 2021 to 2023 high-resolution airborne magnetic and gravity surveys conducted by the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) / AGS in northern Alberta. This interpretation focused on modifying the boundaries of basement domains, dividing known domains into subdomains, distinguishing anomalies in the basement (intrusions, ductile structures, brittle faults, etc.), identifying late brittle faults in the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin (WCSB), and correlating geophysical anomalies with kimberlite pipes. Although this report does not identify any specific mineral occurrences, critical mineral potential is discussed and several potential controls on mineralization are suggested for various commodities (zinc, uranium, etc.).
All production of geophysical products and interpretation of data was conducted by Ronacher McKenzie Geoscience Inc. (RMG), as well as subcontractor Fathom Geophysics LLC, with oversight and approval by the AER and AGS. Using the 2021 to 2023 aeromagnetic and gravity data, RMG synthesized a selection of grid-based filter products to aid subsequent interpretation. Additionally, RMG commissioned Fathom Geophysics LLC to produce automatic structure and radial symmetry detection filters, and other geophysical products. By integrating this new information with existing geological data, the authors’ interpretation included modifications to basement domain boundaries and, notably, division of known basement domains into smaller subdomains. In addition, the authors identified possible intrusions and ductile structures in the basement and delineated brittle faults and kimberlite pipes. Subsequently, a compilation map and report were produced by RMG to highlight all new geological interpretations in northern Alberta. RMG also included an array of new GIS and geophysical products in their deliverables.
This work was completed under the Mineral Grant provided by the Government of Alberta dated June 22, 2021.