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LiDAR-assisted mapping and environmental risk assessment of the Carboniferous rocks in the Cumberland sub-basin of Nova Scotia

Document
Call Number
LE3 .A278 2023
Date Issued
2023
Supervisor
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Degree Level
Honours
Degree Discipline
Abstract
The objective of this project is two-fold: to examine the accuracy of the current geological map and to produce an environmental risk assessment in a small area near Pugwash, Nova Scotia. This area lies within the Cumberland sub-basin, a component of the late Paleozoic Maritimes Basin spanning much of onshore and offshore Atlantic Canada. The current geological map of the Oxford/Pugwash area includes three sizeable, yet independent, salt diapirs mapped along a NE–SW trend. However, this map predates developments in the understanding of salt tectonics that support the notion that the three diapirs are likely part of a larger salt structure, likely a salt wall. To test the hypothesis, the areas between the diapirs are examined to determine if there is evidence of a salt wall connecting them. Sinkholes outside the mapped diapir limits, borehole data, and geological mapping all support the interpretation that a salt wall, and not isolated salt diapirs, exist in the area of interest. To address the second part of this project, producing an environmental risk assessment, we collect data from the local populace, through informal interviews and surveys, about sinkhole risks in the area. It is apparent during these interviews, that most locals are unaware of any potential geological hazards (e.g., sinkholes) in their communities. The overall goal of this second objective is to increase public awareness of geohazards to mitigate the potential impact of sudden structural collapses.
Rights
The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.
Publisher
Acadia University

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