JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com/KFGO) – Residents of Stutsman and Kidder counties might notice a helicopter carrying unusual equipment starting next week.

Beginning Monday, the North Dakota Department of Water Resources will conduct an electromagnetic survey over 1,450 square miles in the area.

The survey will feature a helicopter flying about 100 feet above the ground with a large metal hoop-shaped antenna underneath. This antenna sends and receives electromagnetic signals, which geologists will use to map aquifers.

The helicopter will follow a 1,620-mile route in east-west patterns, spaced 500 to 2,000 meters apart. The pilot, specially trained for this operation, will avoid flying over populated areas.