Z-99 Imaging structure using AMT for hydrological modelling in the western USA

Summary Inversion of audiomagnetotelluric (AMT) sounding data collected in Spring Valley, Nevada, USA shows significant two-dimensional (2D) structure within the upper kilometre of the valley and helps define the shallow basement surface. The depth-to-basement profile provided by the AMT inversion is in good agreement with an independent determination made from gravity measurements. The survey was conducted as a test to determine the applicability of the AMT method to mapping basin structure to depths of 1 km or more. The results exceeded expectation and future surveys are planned to support the development of a hydrological model of eastern Nevada.