COMMITTED TO THE COMMUNITY

Have you ever wondered how geologists and engineers find the best places underground to store carbon dioxide and help reduce emissions from industrial sources of pollution? One interesting tool they use is called a magnetic survey. While it might sound technical, the basics are easy to understand—and these surveys play a big part in making carbon capture and storage (CCS) possible. The process takes place both in the field and in the office to truly understand what is happening beneath our feet. 

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First, What Is Carbon Capture and Storage?

Carbon capture and storage is a method used to reduce greenhouse gases, specifically carbon dioxide (CO2), in the atmosphere. The idea is to capture CO₂ directly from sources like manufacturers, cement and chemical plants, and biofuels producers – like we have here in Louisiana- and then safely store it long term, deep underground. 

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How Do Magnetic Surveys Help?

Before storing CO₂ underground, experts need to make sure the storage site is safe, secure, and stable. This is where magnetic surveys come in. These surveys use helicopters and specialized equipment, called a magnetometer, to measure tiny changes in the Earth's magnetic field. Those changes can reveal locations of old wells and pipelines.  

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What Can I Expect from a Magnetic Survey?

If a magnetic survey is taking place near you, here’s what you might notice: 

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1. Equipment: Low-flying helicopters 

2. Data Collection: The helicopter will fly around in patterns, collecting readings from different locations to build a map of old wells and pipelines in the area. 

3. Timeline: The survey will start on November 10, 2025. Depending on the weather, the helicopter will be out surveying for 2-3 weeks, during the weekday only. No helicopter activity will take place on the weekends. 

This information helps experts identify anomalies that might not show up on the surface.  

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Why Does It Matter?

​By using science to carefully map where hazards like old wells and pipelines might be, we can plan the safest, most effective long-term way to store and monitor CO₂ by knowing exactly what exists on and below the surface before we ever start working.