Joe D Collins

joe.collins@mtsu.edu

Henrique Momm

Geosciences

Discipline specific equipment

DSB 238 (Geomorphology Lab)

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Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) has been used for over 40 years in shallow subsurface investigations. It is a quick, non-invasive, non-destructive geophysical measurement tool that allows archaeologists, geoscientists, and utilities/construction personnel to explore subsurface features using electromagnetic waves to distinguish differences in properties of buried targets. The Department of Geosciences has a 26-year-old GPR that is no longer maintained by the original manufacturer and uses software that does not work on new technology in the department, making it impossible to upkeep and use. As a new faculty member, Dr. Joe Collins is in the process of developing his research program in geomorphology around GPR, which relies heavily on understanding subsurface features, such as caves and sinkholes. If funded, the new GPR will be used extensively in the Department of Geosciences: 1) as a major tool for subsurface studies; 2) as a teaching tool for GEOL 4020 (30 students/year), Gen Ed GEOL 1031 Labs (~ 1750 students/year) and Gen ed PGEO 1030 (~ 200 students/year); and 3) in collaboration with local entities who have written letters of support (i.e. Consolidated Utility District, Rutherford County, Tennessee; Nashville City Cemetery Association). Overall, new GPR will improve research capacity and publications of faculty and students in the Geosciences, provide a foundation for local and regional research and interdisciplinary collaboration across the university, outreach and collaboration with local and regional entities, and provide leverage for future external proposals for research funding.