Solifluction and related processes, eastern Banks Island, N.W.T.

• Published in: Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences
• Main Authors: Egginton, P. A., French, H. M.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Canadian Science Publishing 1985
• Subjects: Banks Island
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/e85-175; http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/e85-175

Mean surface soil movement measured over the period 1972–1983 on eight relatively low angle (< 10°), well drained slopes on eastern Banks Island averaged 0.6 cm/year. Substantial variation in mean movement was recorded amongst the slopes. The variation relates to differences in soil moisture conditions, soil grain size, and the position of the measurement transect relative to the crest or base of the slope. The former two variables and therefore the rate of movement can change rapidly across any given slope, particularly when stripes are present.Three types of movement are identified in the study area: (1) mud burst and mud flow, (2) classic solifluction, and (3) pluglike flow. The latter occurs along discrete shear planes located both within and at the base of the active layer. The existence of episodic and relatively rapid mass movement on these slopes suggests that long-term monitoring programs are necessary to adequately assess and measure slope movement.