Grand Rapids (March 26, 2026) - The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is partnering with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to conduct an airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey to study groundwater resources in over 16 counties in southwest Michigan, including Kent County. The survey is expected to begin on or around the second week of April 2026 and continue for 3-4 months.
The AEM survey is conducted using a helicopter that tows a large hoop with geophysical sensors at relatively low altitudes, hundreds of feet above the ground surface. The data collected will support groundwater planning, environmental protection, and infrastructure decision-making.
This activity is expected and part of a coordinated, state-supported effort and is a non-invasive operation with no ground disruption. Additionally, aircraft will operate under FAA regulations.
What Cascade Township Residents Might See / Hear:
- Low-flying aircraft operating in grid patterns over communities
- Multiple passes over the same area during daylight hours
- Activity occurring intermittently over several months
Human and Animal Safety:
- Electromagnetic levels used are well within established safety standards
- There are no known health risks to people
- No impacts to livestock or wildlife beyond possible temporary reactions to aircraft noise
More information on the AEM survey, including a map of the survey area, can be found at Southwest MI AEM Survey. The webpage also includes a link to the USGS Flight Tracker, which will be updated once the flights begin and can be used to track the progress of the helicopter. To see an example of these flights, click on the video here. For questions, contact Sydney Ruhala at EGLE at RuhalaS@michigan.gov.