Low flying planes and helicopters will be flying over portions of Frederick and Clarke Counties through December.

The Virginia Department of Energy is aiding the U.S. Geological Survey in their national effort to modernize geographical maps, topographical surveys, and geochemical sampling.

This will be the area’s first high resolution public survey in 45 years.

No pictures or videos will be taken with the equipment.

Experienced pilots were contracted to fly as low as 300 feet to use instruments that will help scientists evaluate natural resources or potential hazards.

The pilots will operate out of Cumberland, Maryland.