Coast Forest Region Research Section - Geomorphology

About

Geomorphology is the study of the shape of the earth's surface and the processes that change the earth's surface. Within the context of British Columbia forestry, the most important processes are landslides and stream channel processes. Forestry has the potential to cause landslides, particularly on the coast of British Columbia where steep terrain and intense rainstorms result in many sites that are naturally unstable or marginally stable. Stream channels are sensitive to changes in sediment inputs, woody debris inputs, water volumes, or direct physical disturbance. Additional relevant subjects include karst (soluble limestone terrain) and alluvial fans (a depositional zone for stream channels or landslides).

The Coast Forest Region is involved in research that identifies slopes sensitive to landslides, the distance landslides travel, and physical factors that affect landslide initiation. We are also involved in research on alluvial fans and woody debris in streams.

Staff