Aquifer characterization in Solaison (Haute-Savoie, France) with GPR and seismic reflection methods

A project aimed at mapping and characterizing potential aquifers in the syncline of Solaison, a village in the French Alps (Northern Subalpine Chain), included ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and high-resolution seismic reflection surveying (Fig.1). The GPR technique was chosen for studying the uppermost sediments, particularly peat. The main peat layer is a high-altitude (~1510 m elevation) blanket type with a lateral extent of <200 m. Its southern portion has two major gullies that are >2 m deep and trend northwest-southeast with slight meanders. Seismic surveying was intended for imaging the thickness and distribution of the deeper Quaternary deposits beneath the peat.