Jan. 23, 2014 — Aquinnah, MA— Geologic Earth Exploration, Inc. completed field borings this past week at the Gay Head Lighthouse site. The effort, under the direction and supervision of GEI Consultants, is a critical part of a study to determine the composition of the soils underlying the lighthouse and below the potential relocation sites. Engineers and geologists will review the data and samples collected to determine the suitability of the locations to support the lighthouse as well as the geological sustainability of each site over a long period of time.
Geologic Earth Explorations crew conducting borings tests
The field work consisted of boring 22 individual holes to a depth of 20 to 40 feet and collecting soil samples at 5-foot intervals. While the GEI field engineer collected samples and recorded drilling data, a research geologist, Byron Stone from the U.S. Geological Survey, examined the core samples to determine their composition at different depths. In addition, Stone, a consultant to The Save the Gay Head Lighthouse Committee, will assess the relocation sites to help determine the best site in terms of resistance to future erosion. By analyzing the depths and thicknesses of silt, sand and clay layers and the evidence of ground water, Stone will render an opinion on the long-term sustainability of the sites.
GEI will conduct a series of lab tests on collected samples and make recommendations for type of foundation specific to existing soil properties. A new foundation will have to be constructed for the Lighthouse once it is moved.
The final report is expected in the next few weeks.
Background
The Gay Head Lighthouse, a Martha’s Vineyard treasure and one of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places of 2013, currently sits 46 feet (Aug 2013) from an eroding cliff and geological experts recommend it should be moved in the next year or so or the area around it may not be stable enough to safely do so. The Save the Gay Head Lighthouse Committee is working to save this iconic structure and working navigational beacon, which has stood at the picturesque cliffs of the western most tip of the island since 1799 and was replaced with the current brick lighthouse in 1854. The committee’s objective is to move and restore the Gay Head Lighthouse to a location which will sustain it for many generations. The fundraising goal to cover these costs is $3 million. For more information or to make a donation, visit http://gayheadlight.org/.
About Geologic Earth Exploration
Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Norfolk, Mass., Geologic Earth Exploration offers drilling services that surpass the technical capabilities of its competitors. Whether conditions involve high hydraulic pressure, difficult recovery bedrock or other challenging scenarios, Geologic Earth Exploration offers customers the very best drilling talent on the market.
About GEI Consultants, Inc.
Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Woburn, Mass., GEI has completed more than 35,000 projects in all 50 United States and 25 countries worldwide. GEI brings to its clients a refreshing blend of technical expertise, collaborative spirit and innovation. GEI is a trusted source of technical expertise to hundreds of clients nationwide who value high-quality service and work products and who seek a strong partner to achieve their desired project outcomes.
About Byron Stone PhD:
Reasearch Geologist at the U.S. Geological Survey/U.S. Dept. of Interior, Hartford, CT
Director of the Massachusetts Quarternary Geology Project
Aeologic brings the highest level of drilling
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