Lessons learned in a consulting career using near-surface geophysics

Abstract

Over the last 40 years, the use of geophysical surveys in engineering, water resources, environmental and archaeological projects has changed dramatically. What once took weeks of field work and post-processing efforts can now be accomplished in a single day with the use of advantaged equipment technologies, geospatial control and software. As a result, the ability of geophysics to accurately describe what is unseen in the near-surface environment has advanced such that it is now becoming an integral part of most complex site characterization efforts. Furthermore, challenges that were once thought impossible to overcome in order to achieve success have now become within the grasp of an ordinary consultant. This presentation will outline key lessons learned in the application of geophysical surveys within an engineering and environmental consulting practice over the last several decades, and highlight those with short case histories that demonstrate the advancement of geophysical applications during this time period and the successes that were able to be achieved.