As part of a geological mapping study, a helicopter towing a large hoop from a cable will begin making low-level flights over the area starting Monday and lasting about a week.

The helicopter will fly along pre-planned flight paths relatively low to the ground at 100 to 200 feet above the surface, according to a press release from Dylan Hagen, Webster County’s emergency management coordinator.

A sensor that resembles a large hula-hoop will be towed beneath the helicopter to measure tiny electromagnetic signals that can be used to map features below Earth’s surface.

The public is asked to not call 911 if they see the low-flying helicopter, however if they have any concerns, they should call the non-emergency dispatch line at 515-573-2323.