CHARACTERIZATION OF FAULT ZONES THROUGH HYDROGEOLOGIC METHODS

Hydrogeology is a very specific field of study that focuses on the flow, transport, and distribution of ground water. The research team has attempted to implement hydrogeologic methods in characterizing fault zones, by studying and observing the ground water flow in the Wildcat Fault-zone region along the East Canyon of the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. By testing, observing and analyzing ground water flow and permeability along the fault plane, it is believed that a fault zone can be in fact characterized. Five boreholes were drilled along the East Canyon, to help in collecting and analyzing ground water data to better interpret our theories of how the fault zone is affecting the groundwater flow near the fault. The boreholes are monitored regularly and equipped with several sensors each, for data logging. The exact location of the fault plane is still disputed amongst those involved in the research project. Yet, the methods utilized in this project, can be transcended into future work and understanding for regions with similar tectonic environments, such as Japan.