Seismic Survey in Whitehorse Trough

A seismic survey in the Whitehorse Trough near Carmacks was carried out between February and April, 2004. This was jointly planned by the Geological Survey of Canada and the Yukon Geological Survey.

Download the GSC Current Research preliminary paper on the seismic survey

Download the display poster of the seismic survey

Why was this work done?

The seismic survey is part of a scientific study to learn more about the geology and the oil and gas potential of the Whitehorse Trough.

This is an area that underlies a triangular area between Minto, Carcross and Teslin, and continues into northern British Columbia, west of Atlin. The project also included geological mapping and detailed studies of rock units.

How is this information being used?

It is being used by the Yukon Geological Survey to gain a better understanding of the geological history of the Whitehorse Trough, which is in turn being made available to industry and the public.

Exploration companies will use the information to evaluate the petroleum resource potential in the Whitehorse Trough.

The Oil and Gas Management branch of Energy, Mines & Resources will use the information to determine the economic potential for oil and gas exploration in regards to a future land sale.

What are the environmental impacts?

This survey is different from most other seismic surveys in that it is entirely within the highway right-of-way and there is virtually no environmental impact. No trees were cut and the ground was not disturbed. Vibrations from the seismic equipment cannot be felt so had minimal impact on people or wildlife.

Where did the seismic survey take place?

The seismic work took place within the right-of-ways of the Campbell and Klondike highways and the Mount Nansen Road. Data processing was carried out in Ottawa. The results have been analysed by one of our geologists and is the subject of a paper which will be published soon.

How much did it cost?

The Geological Survey of Canada and the Yukon Geological Survey jointly funded this Targeted Geoscience Initiative. The total cost of the project was approximately $930,000 with up to $230,000 contributed by the Yukon government.