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Abstract
Geophysical Characterization of Karst Geohazards in the Western Delaware Basin, Culberson County, Texas
Authors: Dr. Wesley A. Brown and Dr. Kevin W. Stafford
Department of Earth Sciences and Geological Resources (ESGR), SFASU
Differential dissolution of Permian evaporite karst across the Gypsum Plain in west Texas presents significant geotechnical challenges, particularly in Culberson County, where increased petroleum exploration and transportation have led to higher vehicular traffic. The Castile Formation, predominant in this area, is composed of gypsum and anhydrite, which are highly susceptible to dissolution through surface water, groundwater flow, and meteoric processes. As a result, karst features such as sinkholes, surface subsidence, and caves of both epigenic and hypogenic origin frequently occur along roadways in this region.
Traditional karst survey methods are effective at mapping subsurface features once identified, but they often fail to capture the full extent of features that do not present obvious surface expressions. To address this, researchers at Stephen F. Austin State University, in collaboration with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), are conducting an integrated geophysical study to assess karst geohazards along sections of proposed and existing stretches of Ranch to Market Roads managed by TxDOT's El Paso District. This ongoing study utilizes capacitively coupled resistivity, direct current resistivity, ground-penetrating radar, and speleogenetic analysis to characterize subsurface conditions. This presentation will provide an overview of preliminary findings from these ongoing investigations in Culberson County, Texas.
Biography
Dr. Wesley A. Brown serves as the Chair of the Department of Earth Sciences at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU), where he has been a faculty member since 2006. He holds a Ph.D. in Geological Sciences from the University of Texas at El Paso, specializing in Earthquake Seismology, Lithospheric Structure and Integrated Geophysics. Dr. Brown’s research focuses on geophysics, seismotectonics, and the assessment of karst and evaporite geohazards, with a particular emphasis on the Delaware Basin in Texas.
Throughout his career, Dr. Brown has held numerous academic positions, progressing from Assistant Professor to his current role as Department Chair. He has led significant geophysical research projects, authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, and collaborated with multiple national and state level organizations.
An active member of several professional societies—including the American Geophysical Union (AGU), Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG), and Seismological Society of America (SSA)—Dr. Brown continues to contribute to advancements in geophysical methods and applications. His dedication to student mentorship is reflected in his extensive supervision of graduate research. He has directed and served on committees for numerous master’s theses, covering topics such as seismic interpretation, electrical resistivity, and karst geohazard delineation.
Dr. Brown’s work exemplifies a strong commitment to research, education, and service, advancing the field of geophysics while addressing critical infrastructure and environmental challenges in Texas and beyond.
