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The most common methods used for landfill location are the geophysical methods of electromagnetic conductivity (EM), ground penetrating radar (GPR), and ground resistivity. Photographs showing how these geophysical survey methods are conducted and the results that can be obtained are shown below:

Electromagnetic Conductivity Surveys of Landfills and Trench Debris

The instruments shown above can locate buried trenches, landfills, and inorganic or salt plumes. The shallow EM conductivity meter locates metal and measures ground conductivity to a depth of 20 feet (6 m). The EM metal detector locates metal to 10 feet and can more accurately define the metal target locations than the shallow EM conductivity meter. The deeper EM conductivity meter can measure ground conductivity to 100 feet (30 m). The EM conductivity instruments are excellent for locating inorganic and salt plumes from landfills and waste pits.

The map (above) shows the results of a survey conducted with GeoModel, Inc.'s EM ground conductivity meter. Areas of former trenching can be seen in blue and buried metal can be seen in red and orange.

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) Surveys

GeoModel, Inc. can conduct ground penetrating radar (GPR) for buried trench and landfill location. The 200 MHz antenna (seen below) was used to obtain the data on two trenches. The antenna can be pulled by hand, ATV, or truck.

Company Background

GeoModel, Inc. was founded in 1991 as a geophysical services and environmental consulting firm. The company principals have over 50 years of combined experience and have conducted numerous EM, GPR, and resistivity surveys for landfill location, including landfill cells, trenches, and plumes. All projects are conducted by registered professional geologists.

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