3D geological model of the Red River Valley, central North America

The increasing reliance of a growing population on groundwater has precipitated the development of new geological mapping tools and products for better understanding, sustaining, and protecting this valuable resource. Improved access to digital surficial maps, associated soils maps, and digital drillhole databases, as well as digitization and reconciliation of existing paper geological maps and increasing computer power, have given us the ability to produce regional 3D geological models. Starting in 2000, after six years of data compilation, a hydrostratigraphic model was built for the 200 km by 230 km Winnipeg area of southeastern Manitoba (Figure 1). A corresponding groundwater-flow model was completed by Paula Kennedy of the University of Manitoba in 2002. Since then, the 3D geological model has been extended northward to include the Lake Winnipeg basin. As modeling continues, the need for cross-border co-ordination increases. To this end, Co-operative 3D geological modeling projects have been initiated with Saskatchewan; the WilIiston basin architecture and hydrocarbon potential project, and with Minnesota and North Dakota; 3D geological model of groundwater-bearing strata in the Fargo-Moorhead region (Figure 2). The focus of the Williston basin architecture project is rock units, which will provide a base for continued 3D Quaternary modeling in southwestern Manitoba.