Integration of structural, gravity, and magnetic data using the weights of evidence method as a tool for kimberlite exploration in the Buffalo Head Hills, Northern Central Alberta

Abstract

In the Buffalo Head Hills area a weights of evidence statistical approach was used to determine the spatial relationship of NNE-, NE-, NW-, and ENE-trending lineaments to known kimberlite locations. This method outlined different degrees of spatial correlation between and lineaments, with higher correlations defined for the NNE, NE, and ENE lineament data sets. A weights of evidence model then was constructed using the structural lineament maps, the Buffalo High and Buffalo Utikuma terrane boundary, Bouguer gravity data, and magnetic characteristics of the Buffalo High and Buffalo Utikuma terranes. The model reveals maximum favorability for kimberlite exploration along the Buffalo High and Utikuma terrane boundary in correspondence with NNE-trending lineaments and their intersections with NE and ENE lineaments. The relationship of the kimberlite occurrences along the Buffalo High-Buffalo Utikuma terrane boundary and structural lineaments seems to favor an hypothesis of kimberlite emplacement through a major zone of weakness in the basement, here characterized by the boundary between the Buffalo High and Buffalo Utikumaterranes.