INNOVATION March-April 2017

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Analyzing Watershed Response to Resource Development Cydne Potter, GIT, is helping to unravel the complexities of watershed response to resource development. Working with Dr. Kim Green, P.Geo., at Apex Geoscience Consultants Ltd., on a recent hydro-geomorphological investigation of MacDonald Creek, near Nakusp, BC, Potter analyzes how slope aspect and elevation are distributed through the watershed. Her geospatial analysis identifies two different headwater domains that contribute to the watershed’s hydro- geomorphic characteristics (Right). MacDonald Creek flows between gentler-gradient, south-aspect slopes on its north side and a series of steep, north-flowing headwater catchments that border the main channel’s south side. This information is combined with field survey data to determine flood history and channel processes—for example,

runoff from the steep, north-facing tributaries controls the creek’s main flood events—and is used to provide recommendations to forest managers who must balance forest development with protection of water resources. Potter notes that, these days, geoscientists working in the resource sector benefit from well-rounded backgrounds that include geospatial-imaging skills like those she employed in the MacDonald Creek project. v

The projects showcased here were undertaken by members of APEGBC’s Division of Engineers and Geoscientists in the Resources Sector (DEGIRS). Innovation invites members of all APEGBC divisions to submit for publication brief descriptions with high-quality, high- resolution photos about recent projects they have been involved in. Projects should highlight the range of work division members undertake. For information and to review submission guidelines, see apeg.bc.ca/Submitting-to-Innovation.

OQM Organizational Quality Management Program

The following organizations have recently received OQM Certification. Find out more at apeg.bc.ca/oqm. Earth Fire Energy Inc. J.E. Anderson & Associates McElhanney Consulting Services Ltd. (Saskatchewan) Third Rock Geoscience Inc. Urban Systems Ltd. (Alberta) Urban Systems Ltd. (Saskatchewan) Accuva Management & Engineering Ltd. Fundy Engineering & Consulting Ltd. LSC Precast Systems Ltd. WCC Crane Solutions Inc.

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M A R CH/A P R I L 2 017

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