CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Allard, M.; Mate, D.; Doyon-Robitaille, J.; L’Hérault, E.; Ogdenberger, G.; Leblanc, A.-M.; and Sladen, W.
Date : 2010.
Title : Surficial geology mapping and permafrost characterization in Iqaluit, Nunavut.
Publication : 7th Annual ArcticNet Scientific Meeting. December 15-17, 2010. The Westin Ottawa, Ottawa,Ontario.
Issue : Programme.
Page(s) : 90.
Abstract
Under a joint CNGO, ESS and Laval (Centre d’études Nordiques), Landscape Hazard Mapping Initiative, field work was conducted in August 2010 to map surficial geology and permafrost properties in Iqaluit. The aim of the study are to provide geoscientific, geotechnical and permafrost thermal regime information necessary for land use planning, construction and to the identifi cation of potential hazards that may have impacts on urban and transportation infrastructure. Iqaluit is a city that is growing rapidly and contains much of the territories strategic infrastructure. For example, its airport occupies a strategic position as the gateway for the eastern Canadian Arctic. A new surficial geology map of the city has been produced. This was done using several techniques. First, air photographs dating back to 1948, when both the airport and the city were at an early stage of development, were used to view original terrain conditions. Second, field surveys were conducted to verify air photo interpretation and characterize permafrost conditions. This involved drilling and recovering shallow permafrost cores, description of stratigraphic sections in Quaternary sediments and ground penetrating radar and electrical resistivity (Ohm-Mapper and galvanic) surveys at sites representative of widespread geological units. Particular attention was paid to new areas planned for municipal expansion and the airport where major improvements are expected in order to meet the needs of increased air traffic. Three thermistor cables equipped with dataloggers were installed at key sites: in the urban area, close to the airport runway and in polygonal wetlands in Sylvia Grinnel Park. All the geoscientific data is incorporated in a GIS database and the end product is shown on a high precision DEM and a recent high resolution satellite image. The provisional map shows that the airport is built on a dense network of tundra polygons on a glacio-fluvial outwash. The older part of the city is built on raised marine beaches and the newer sectors are on bedrock and till.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology