CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Azam, S.; and Khan, F
Date : 2010.
Title : Engineering characteristics of Avonlea Badland sediments.
Publication : Prairie Summit - Le sommet des Prairies. Joint Conference of Canadian Association of Geographers, Canadian Cartographic Association, Canadian Geomorphology Research Group, Canadian Remote Sensing Society / Conférence conjointe de l’Association canadienne des géographes, l’Association canadienne de cartographie, le Groupe canadien de recherche en géomorphologie, la Société canadienne de télédétection. June 1 to 5, 2010. Regina, Saskatchewan.
Issue : Program and Abstract Volume.
Page(s) : 76.
Abstract
The engineering characteristics of badland sediments are derived from geologic history and climatic conditions. Different types of geomaterials are generally encountered in such landscapes as evident from lithologic variations in composition and texture. Three distinct slope surfaces (steep cemented sandstone, mildly-sloped weathered mudrock, and flat basal pediment) characterize the Avonlea badlands in the semi-arid environment of southern Saskatchewan. Seasonal variations in water availability (snow melt in spring and rainfall in summer) and water deficiency (low rainfall and freezing in fall and winter) result in periodic saturation and de-saturation of surface soils in the area. Given the increasing economic activity, a geotechnical evaluation of marginal materials is required for construction in such terrains. The main objective of this paper is to investigate the engineering behaviour of Avonlea badland sediments. The soil water characteristics curve and the hydraulic conductivity is being determined for selected samples. Preliminary results indicate that a genetic relationship exists between the cemented sandstone and the basal pediment. Further, the investigated materials respond differently when exposed to identical water saturation conditions. These data will be used to develop a clear understanding of hydrological losses (particularly infiltration rates and amounts) and cyclic changes in material behaviour under the prevalent climate.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology