The rock fracture group at UB has developed a methodology that combines digital fracture analysis in sparse outcrops with soil gas analyses to detect buried faults and fractures. The results of six New York studies have shown that fractures that are vertically continuous through units of different lithologies are characterized by much larger soil gas anomalies. Structural studies by Bob Jacobi and his students have determined that these fracture systems are characterized by high density of fractures over a narrow zone and are related to faults at depth – although no offset may be apparent at the surface. Such fractures typically extend through unconsolidated deposits above the bedrock, suggesting that they are hydraulically important. The common continuation of the fractures through the unconsolidated sediments suggests that many of the local fault systems have been reactivated since the last glaciation. Our technique allows rapid detection of such fracture zones.

From 690 take the Thompson Road North exit. Follow Thompson Road north to the Carrier Circle. Take Route 298 East. Go ~1/2 mile to the first light, Wyndham is on the left.

From the Thruway take exit 35 (East Syracuse and Route 298). After toll both go around the traffic circle to Route 298 East. Go ~1/2 mile to the first light, Wyndham is on the left.