Geo-mapping Frontiers

The scientific research and results of this project are available via GEOSCAN.

In the final phase of GEM, a new project entitled Geo-mapping Frontiers has been initiated to improve geoscience knowledge in the least understood parts of Canada’s North.

Project leader: John Percival

Hypothesis:

By upgrading sparse knowledge coverage of remote northern regions, can predictive geological models be developed in support of exploration targeting?

Research objectives include:

• create an inventory and a geo-located database for samples, maps and field notes collected in 1950s-60s helicopter reconnaissance operations;
• collect new geochronological, geochemical and geophysical data on archival samples;
• build remote predictive maps using available and recently acquired data;
• acquire new geophysical and geochemical surveys;
• re-interpret existing marine seismic datasets acquired by industry;
• test emerging geological models through targeted field work and develop new hypotheses;
• establish a surficial geological framework through air photo interpretation and targeted till sampling; and
• assess feasibility of future work in remote regions.

Scientific Highlights

• Recognition of ring structures and testing linkage with volcanic vents with epithermal gold-silver potential over a 250,000 km² region of mainland Nunavut.
• Development of a regional lithotectonic framework for the Chantrey – Queen Maud corridor (Nunavut) and assessment of metallogenic potential.
• Identification of supracrustal belts and mafic-ultramafic intrusions in the Tehery – Cape Dobbs area, Nunavut.
• Recognition of mafic intrusive units, major structures and geochemical anomalies in the South Rae region of N.W.T.
• Development of modeling tools for testing the nature of anomalies detected on seismic profiles.

Information about other GEM mineral projects is available on the Geo-mapping for minerals web page.