Mount Currie in southwestern British Columbia represents a region of active geological processes and significant geotechnical challenges. My doctoral research, presented in Chapter 4 of this thesis (https://summit.sfu.ca/item/38467 ), integrates structural geology, satellite remote sensing, and geotechnical modeling to evaluate rock slope instability across this prominent landscape. This article offers a detailed review of key figures that collectively build a robust case for understanding and forecasting slope failure mechanisms at Mount Currie.

Figure 4.10 – Constructing 3D Structural Planes from LiDAR Lineaments

This figure illustrates the methodology used to convert LiDAR-derived slope lineaments into three-dimensional geological planes. Two approaches—manual digitization and automated extraction—were employed using the AkhDefo software platform. Accurate 3D plane fitting is foundational in rock slope stability studies as it allows for precise modeling of failure surfaces in structurally controlled slopes.

Figure 4.11 – Fault Kinematics and Slope Stability Modeling

Here, the Limit Equilibrium Analysis (LEA) is employed to estimate Factors of Safety (FoS) across different domains at Mount Currie. By incorporating fault orientations and LiDAR-derived features, this model identifies areas where slope angles and discontinuities converge to create mechanically unstable configurations. The result is a nuanced geotechnical map highlighting potential failure zones.

Figure 4.12 – Quantifying Failure Depth and Probability

Building on the LEA framework, this figure introduces two critical outputs: the maximum depth of failure and the associated probability of collapse. These quantitative metrics are essential for prioritizing risk mitigation in areas exhibiting both deep-seated instability and a high likelihood of failure under static or dynamic loading conditions.

Figure 4.15 – Conceptual Geological Model of Failure Mechanisms

This figure synthesizes geological and geomorphic data into a conceptual model highlighting the primary forces acting on Mount Currie’s slopes. It emphasizes the role of regional thrust faulting, gravitational spreading at the mountain crest, and the residual influence of alpine glaciation. Together, these elements explain the structural evolution and current deformation patterns observed in the field and remote data.

Figure 4.16 – Sensitivity Analysis: Shear Strength Parameters vs Factor of Safety

This figure presents a sensitivity analysis showing how variations in shear strength parameters—specifically cohesion and internal friction angle—affect the overall Factor of Safety. Understanding this relationship is key to modeling slope response under changing environmental or loading conditions.

Figure 4.17 – Kinematics of a Critical Wedge Failure

This figure presents a three-dimensional view of a mechanically valid “key block” formed by intersecting discontinuities. Kinematic modeling reveals how displacement of this primary block could initiate a cascade of wedge sliding failures. A supporting table details the angular relationships and physical dimensions that define the block geometry—critical information for hazard forecasting.

Figure 4.18 – Horizontal Displacement Trends from InSAR

Using processed Sentinel-1 radar data from 2018 to 2020, this figure maps horizontal displacement across the entire Mount Currie ridge. It provides spatial validation of the LEA model by revealing active deformation zones that align closely with predicted instability regions. NE3 Peak emerges as the most dynamically active zone in the horizontal plane.

Figure 4.19 – Vertical Displacement and Multidimensional Analysis

Complementing the horizontal displacement data, this figure focuses on vertical ground movement. The juxtaposition of LEA predictions and InSAR-derived velocities confirms that NE3 Peak also exhibits significant vertical motion. This reinforces the conclusion that the area is undergoing progressive failure, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring.

Conclusion

The integration of structural mapping, LiDAR analysis, slope stability modeling, and InSAR time-series data offers a multidimensional framework for assessing rock slope hazards at Mount Currie. These figures collectively highlight the power of a multidisciplinary approach in understanding complex geological systems. Through this work, I aim to contribute a comprehensive methodology for identifying and mitigating slope instability in similarly dynamic terrains.