Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY With the TMX - Anchor Loop Project (the “Project”) Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. (“Terasen Pipelines”) proposes to loop a portion of its existing National Energy Board (“NEB”) regulated oil pipeline system (the “Trans Mountain pipeline” or “Trans Mountain”) to increase the capacity of the Trans Mountain pipeline to meet growing shipper demand. The Project involves the construction of 158 km of 812 mm or 914 mm (32-inch or 36-inch) diameter pipe between a location west of Hinton, Alberta at Kilometre Post/Kilometre Loop (“KP/KL") 310.1 and a location near Rearguard, British Columbia (BC) (KP/KL 468.0). The Project also includes the installation of two new pump stations at locations along the Trans Mountain pipeline, one in Alberta at Wolf (KP 188.0) and one in BC, at Chappel (KP 555.5), and the installation of associated aboveground facilities including block valves at several locations and a receiving trap for pipeline cleaning and inspection tools at a location near Rearguard, BC (KP/KL 468.0). Construction of the Project will require temporary construction camps and other temporary work yards. The Project will traverse federal, provincial and private lands, including Jasper National Park (JNP) in Alberta and Mount Robson Provincial Park (MRPP) in BC.
This technical report has been prepared to support the Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment section of the Section 52 application to the NEB. It has been designed to satisfy the information requirements identified in the Scope and Requirements of the Environmental Assessment for the Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. TMX - Anchor Loop Project (TOR) (CEA Agency et al. 2005) for the Project and in the NEB Filing Manual.
The Project follows an east-west transect through the Rocky Mountains, traversing portions of the Foothills, Front Ranges and Main Ranges. In terms of bedrock geology, Upper Cretaceous clastic sediments underlie the Foothills, the Front Ranges mainly comprise Paleozoic carbonates and Mesozoic clastics, and in the Main Ranges Precambrian sandstones, slates and shales predominate. There is no evidence that any of the bedrock formations traversed by the Project is acid-generating. Cordilleran till is the main surficial material of glacial origin, forming ground moraine and moraine blanket/veneer, with sand-gravel glaciofluvial outwash sediments locally. Postglacial deposits include colluvium on slopes, fluvial sediments, eolian dunes/blankets, recent lake basins and wetlands along the valley bottoms. Hydrogeologically, the Foothills and Rocky Mountains are a recharge area for regional groundwater flow systems that are discharged within the Interior Plains to the east or the Southern Rocky Trench to the west. Local groundwater flows occur between upland recharge areas and discharge zones along the valley bottoms and in the wetlands. Several hot and mineral springs occur close to the Project.
While major natural hazards are generally avoided, a number of ground instabilities (rockslides and slumps) affect slopes close to, and/or are encroached upon, by the Project. These features are inferred to be mostly old and inactive. Creeks exhibiting evidence of debris flow activity are also encountered and snow avalanche tracks are locally abundant, particularly west of the Continental Divide. Erodible surficial materials occur locally, valley bottom areas close to the rivers and creeks are susceptible to flooding and wind erosion may be a concern in areas of eolian deposits. Karst terrain, characterized by surface/subsurface solution features (including caves), occurs in areas with carbonate bedrock. Permafrost likely occurs in alpine areas and may exist within two isolated wetlands close to the Project.
The Proposed and Existing routes traverse similar terrain, geologically, but differences exist in terms of the relative distributions of bedrock terrain, coarse outwash deposits, wetlands, ground instabilities and debris flow channels close to the respective alignments. Based on consideration of these factors, it is concluded that the Existing Route is marginally preferrable from a terrain/geotechnical perspective.
Recommended supplementary studies are identified. These include: examination of selected ground instabilities to confirm they do not pose a threat to the Project; investigation of the potential permafrost areas; detailed soils/bedrocks investigations in areas where directionally drilled installations are being considered; subsurface investigations at proposed aboveground facility locations to provide a basis for engineering design; and development of plans for implementation of drainage and erosion control measures following construction.
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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... I 1.0 INTRODUCTION...... 1 1.1 Route Options ...... 1 1.1.1 Proposed Route ...... 1 1.1.2 Existing Route...... 2 1.2 Regulatory Standards ...... 2 1.3 Goals of the Report...... 4 2.0 METHODOLOGY...... 4 2.1 Spatial Boundaries...... 4 2.1.1 Project Footprint...... 4 2.1.2 Local Study Area...... 4 2.1.3 Regional Study Area ...... 5 2.2 Literature Review ...... 5 2.3 Data Collection...... 5 2.3.1 Pre-Field Work ...... 5 2.3.2 Field Work ...... 5 2.4 Data Interpretation ...... 5 3.0 SETTING...... 6 3.1 Overall Project...... 6 3.2 Alberta/Jasper National Park (KP 310 to KP 406) ...... 7 3.3 Mount Robson Provincial Park/British Columbia (KP 406 to KP 468) ...... 7 4.0 RESULTS...... 8 4.1 Proposed Route ...... 8 4.1.1 Overall Project...... 8 4.1.2 Alberta/Jasper National Park (KP 310 to KP 406)...... 9 4.1.3 Mount Robson Provincial Park/British Columbia (KP 406 to KP 468)...... 11 4.2 Existing Route...... 13 4.2.1 Overall Project...... 13 4.2.2 Alberta/Jasper National Park (KP 310 to KP 406)...... 14 4.2.3 Mount Robson Provincial Park/British Columbia (KP 406 to KP 468)...... 15 4.3 Permanent Facilities...... 17 4.3.1 Wolf Pump Station (KP 188.0)...... 17 4.3.2 Chappel Pump Station (KP 555.5)...... 17 4.3.3 Scraper Trap Site (KP 468.0)...... 17 4.3.4 Valve Sites ...... 17 4.3.5 Access Roads ...... 17 4.4 Temporary Facilities for Construction ...... 18 4.4.1 Campsites ...... 18 4.4.2 Staging Areas...... 18 4.4.3 Stockpile Sites...... 18 4.4.4 Access Roads ...... 18 5.0 ROUTE COMPARISON AND EVALUATION ...... 18 6.0 SUPPLEMENTARY STUDIES...... 19 6.1 Supplementary Studies...... 19 7.0 CONCLUSIONS...... 19 8.0 REFERENCES...... 20 8.1 Literature Cited...... 20
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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix A Environmental Resource Maps...... A1 Appendix B Photoplates ...... B1
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 TMX - Anchor Loop Project...... 3
LIST OF TABLES Table 1 Spatial Boundaries of the TMX - Anchor Loop Project ...... 4 Table 2 Comparison of Proposed Route and Existing Route ...... 18
LIST OF PLATES IN APPENDIX B Plate B1 View northeast along existing Trans Mountain alignment, KP/KL 335.5, showing debris flow material (July 2005)...... B2 Plate B2 View east from Windy Point, with prominent pipeline “roach” visible in the middle distance where existing Trans Mountain alignment crosses gravelly- cobbly colluvial cone...... B2 Plate B3 View southeast from Windy Point, KP/KL 3497, showing existing Trans Mountain alignment (July 2005). The project will be located to the north and east (right)...... B2 Plate B4 View south from Windy Point, KP/KL 349.9, with Jasper Lake visible in middle distance (July 2005). Island is comprised of lacustrine and eolian materials...... B2 Plate B5 Bedrock ridge south of Pyramid Creek, KP/KL 372.8 (July 2005). The project passes between Highway 16 and the CN Railway upslope...... B3 Plate B6 View north showing bedrock ridge south of Pyramid Creek, KP/KL 373.0 (July 2005). The CN Railway is part -way upslope, while the project is located between the toe of the slope and Highway 16...... B3 Plate B7 Trans Mountain alignment, KP/KL 375.5, looking north (July 2005). The existing pipeline follows an ascending sidehill across a steep glaciofluvial terrace scarp...... B3 Plate B8 View south, KP/KL 376.2, showing Trans Mountain alignment ascending onto the glaciofluvial terrace upon which Jasper townsite is located...... B3 Plate B9 Between KL 396.5 and KL 399.5, the proposed route follows the CNA Railway grade along the toe of the Miette River valley wall (July 2005). Thick- bedded sandstones of the Miette Group are exposed...... B4 Plate B10 The CNA Railway grade is followed by the proposed route between KL 402.0 and KL 404.3, exposing Miette Group bedrock (July 2005)...... B4 Plate B11 In places, the CNA Railway grade includes high fills, KL 403.3 (July 2005)...... B4 Plate B12 View northeast towards Yellowhead Pass, KP 408.5, showing Highway 16 with Trans Mountain alignment on east (July 2005)...... B4 Plate B13 Landslide area, believed to be active, located north of the Project just west of Yellowhead Pass, KP/KL 406.5 (July 2005)...... B5 Plate B14 Between KL 416.7 and 426.3 the proposed route parallels the CN Railway along the north side. Cuts in till (moraine) are developed locally, KL 422.0 (July 2005)...... B5 Plate B15 In places where the CN Railway is paralleled, sand-gravel glaciofluvial outwash deposits within the till are exposed, KL 422.1 (July 2005)...... B5 Plate B16 View northwest from the south end of Moose Lake, KP/KL 436.0 (July 2005)...... B5 Plate B17 Along the northeast side of Moose Lake, the existing Trans Mountain pipeline is typically located upslope from Highway 16 (July 2005)...... B6 Plate B18 Runout area of recent debris flow crossing Trans Mountain alignment at KP/KL 466.6 (July 2005)...... B6
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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
asl above sea level BC British Columbia CEA Agency Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency CN Railway Canadian National Railway CNA Railway Canadian Northern Alberta Railway – an abandoned railgrade in Jasper National Park and Mount Robson Provincial Park JNP Jasper National Park KL Kilometre Loop on Proposed Route of the TMX - Anchor Loop KP Kilometre Post on Existing Trans Mountain Pipeline Route KP/KL Indicates that the Existing Trans Mountain Pipeline Route and the Proposed Route of the TMX - Anchor Loop abut one another LSA Local Study Area MRPP Mount Robson Provincial Park NEB National Energy Board RSA Regional Study Area TOR Scope and Requirements of the Environmental Assessment for the Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. TMX - Anchor Loop Project
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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
1.0 INTRODUCTION With the TMX - Anchor Loop Project (the “Project”) Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. (“Terasen Pipelines”) proposes to loop a portion of its existing National Energy Board (“NEB”) regulated oil pipeline system (the “Trans Mountain pipeline” or “Trans Mountain”) to increase the capacity of the Trans Mountain pipeline to meet growing shipper demand. The Project involves the construction of 158 km of 812 mm or 914 mm (32-inch or 36-inch) diameter pipe between a location west of Hinton, Alberta at Kilometre Post/Kilometre Loop (“KP/KL") 310.1 and a location near Rearguard, British Columbia (BC) (KP/KL 468.0). The Project also includes the installation of two new pump stations at locations along the Trans Mountain pipeline, one in Alberta at Wolf (KP 188.0) and one in BC, at Chappel (KP 555.5), and the installation of associated aboveground facilities including block valves at several locations and a receiving trap for pipeline cleaning and inspection tools at a location near Rearguard, BC (KP/KL 468.0). Construction of the Project will require temporary construction camps and other temporary work yards. The Project will traverse federal, provincial and private lands, including Jasper National Park (JNP) in Alberta and Mount Robson Provincial Park (MRPP) in BC.
The Project loops only a small portion of the Trans Mountain pipeline’s 1,146 km length (Figure 1). A pipeline “loop” is a common and widely-used term describing an additional segment of pipeline parallel to and interconnected with an existing pipeline system. The construction of a loop is a method of adding capacity and operational flexibility to an existing pipeline system. The Trans Mountain pipeline system was constructed in 1952-1953. Two loops were added to the system in 1957, bringing the configuration of the pipeline system (other than pump stations) to its present state.
Construction of the Project is scheduled to commence in mid-2007 and extend until the third quarter of 2008.
1.1 Route Options Two pipeline route options were assessed in detail for the TMX - Anchor Loop Project, namely the Proposed Route and the Existing Route (i.e., the Trans Mountain pipeline). Both route options are evaluated within this report.
Known reference points along the existing pipeline system are commonly referred to as a Kilometre Post or "KP". KP 0.0 is located at the Edmonton Terminal where the existing Trans Mountain system originates. KPs are approximately 1 km apart and are primarily used to describe features along the pipeline for operations and maintenance purposes. To delineate features along the Proposed Route, the symbol "KL" or Kilometre Loop has been applied throughout this report. In locations where the Existing Route and the Proposed Route parallel one another, the symbol "KP/KL" has been used to clearly indicate to the reader that the two route alignments abut one another. Where the Proposed Route diverges away from the Existing Route, the KL symbol is used on its own.
1.1.1 Proposed Route The Proposed Route originates in Alberta, approximately 8 km west of the Town of Hinton at KP/KL 310.1 and follows the Existing Route through forested provincial Crown land in Alberta (KP/KL 310.1 to KL 325.7). At KP/KL 324.3, the route diverges from the Existing Route and parallels Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16) into JNP.
The JNP portion of the Proposed Route (KL 325.7 to KP/KL 405.9) traverses federal Crown land. The Proposed Route and the Existing Route are generally coincident within JNP, with the exception of the following segments:
• KL 325.6 to KL 336.3 where the route parallels Highway 16;
• KL 336.3 to KL 337.5 where the route crosses the Athabasca River at a new location;
• KL 349.6 to KL 349.9 where the route traverses Windy Point;
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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
• KL 377.8 to KL 379.0 where the route follows an existing power line, Highway 16 and a borrow pit;
• KL 380.2 to KL 382.9 where the route parallels an existing access road (Wynd Road);
• KL 388.1 to KL 391.0 where the route follows Highway 16; and
• KL 396.3 to KP/KL 405.9 where the route follows the abandoned Canadian Northern Alberta (CNA) Railway grade before entering MRPP in BC.
Within MRPP (KP/KL 405.9 to KP/KL 466.3), the Proposed Route traverses provincial Crown land and diverges from the Existing Route for four segments:
• KL 407.4 to KL 409.7 where the route follows the abandoned CNA Railway grade;
• KL 416.0 to KL 435.3 where the route parallels the Canadian National (CN) Railway and the abandoned CNA Railway grade;
• KL 448.9 to KL 455.3 where the route follows the abandoned CNA Railway grade; and
• KL 457.6 to KL 461.6 where the route parallels the CN Railway on the south side of the Fraser River.
The final portion of the Proposed Route lies within BC (KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 468.0), and traverses both provincial Crown land and private lands near the west boundary of MRPP.
1.1.2 Existing Route The Existing Route parallels the existing Trans Mountain system for its entire length. The Existing Route originates in Alberta, approximately 8 km west of the Town of Hinton at KP 310.1, and follows the Trans Mountain system through Alberta (KP 310.1 to KP 325.7), JNP (KP 325.7 to KP/KL 405.9), MRPP (KP/KL 405.9 to KP 466.3) and BC (KP 466.3 to KP 468.0).
1.2 Regulatory Standards This report addresses the baseline terrain/geomorphology, geology and groundwater components of the National Energy Board Filing Requirements (NEB 2004) and the Scope and Requirements of the Environmental Assessment for the Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. TMX - Anchor Loop Project (TOR) (CEA Agency et al. 2005).
Table A-4 in the NEB Filing Manual places emphasis on the occurrence, as applicable, of permafrost conditions, areas of ground instability (landslides), areas of acid-generating bedrock and areas of potential flooding or erosion. Areas of high fire potential and historic land use as it may relate to contaminated soils or sediments are being addressed in separate technical reports.
Details regarding the various provincial and federal agency requirements for the Project as a whole and the scope of the assessment are presented in the TOR (CEA Agency et al. 2005). A list of federal and provincial acts, regulations and policies pertaining to the planning, construction and operation of the TMX - Anchor Loop Project is also contained in the TOR.
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264600 314600 364600 414600 464600 514600 564600 614600
R 10 R 9 R 8 R 7 R 6 R 5 R 4 R 3 R 2 R 1 R 27 R 26 R 25 R 24 R 23 R 22 R 21 R 20 R 19 R 18 R 17 R 16 R 15 R 14 R 13 R 12 R 11 R 10 R 9 R 8 R 7 R 6 N N A A
I T 58 I
BRITISH D D I
ALBERTA I R
COLUMBIA R 0 Fort McMurray 0 E
0 T 57 0 E 9 9 3 3 M M
7 7
9 9
Dawson Creek H H 5 5 T
Grande Prairie T T 56 X F I I
MAP EXTENT S F Prince George T 55 Edmonton Hinton Stony Plain Willmore Valemount Jasper Wilderness Williams Lake Red Deer Area Obed Lake Niton Chip T 54 Provincial Park KP 173.4 Banff KP 147.1 Calgary Kamloops T 53 Whistler Merritt Wolf Vancouver Surrey Kelowna Nanaimo CANADA Edson 0 KP 188 T 52 0 Abbotsford 0 0
9 Victoria KP 228.7 9
3 US A Rock Lake - 3 2 2
9 Solomon Creek 9 5 T 51 5 Wildland Park
Hinton T 50 KP 317.7 T 49 Jasper KP 310.1 National Park KP 468.0 T 48 Mount Robson 9 Provincial T 47 0 3H 83E 0 0 0
9 Park 9 3 9 3 7 3A 83D Rearguard Wildhorse 7 8 Cariboo T 46 8 5 5 Mountains KP 476.8 Wildland Provincial Jasper Park Park KP 369.5 T 45
Mount Robson T 44 Provincial Jasper Park National Park T 43 Albreda A L B E R T A KP 519.1 T 42 0 0 0 0 9 9 3 3 2 T 41 2 8 8 5 Wells Gray 5 Provincial Park Chappel KP 555.5 TMX - ANCHOR LOOP PROJECT
White Goat LEGEND Wilderness Area Proposed TMX - Anchor Loop Hydrology
0 Existing Trans Mountain 0 0 Park and Protected Areas 0 9 Pipeline (TMPL) 9 3 3 7 7
7 New Pump Station Provincial Boundary 7 5 5 9 3A 83D Banff Existing Pump Station 83D 83C 92P 82M National Park Projection: Zone 11 - Datum: NAD83 82M 82N Hillshade: Ministry of Natural Resources Canada 2005. Finn Hydrology/Provincial Boundary: Ensight Information Services Ltd. 2005; Siffleur Government of Canada 2003, Canada Centre for Remote Sensing, The Atlas of Canada. KP 612.5 Wilderness Park and Protected Areas: Government of Alberta 2004; BC Parks Victoria 2004. Area Although there is no reason to believe that there are any errors associated with the data used to generate this product or in B R I T I S H the product itself, users of these data are advised that errors in the data may be present.
SCALE: 1:1,500,000 C O L U M B I A km 0 12.5 25 50
0 (All Locations Approximate) 0 0 0 9 9
3 Blackpool 3 2 McMurphy November 2005 FIGURE 1 2 7 3739 7
5 KP 709.9 5 KP 645
264600 314600 364600 414600 464600 514600 564600 614600
00_3739_TechRep_Fig_1.mxd Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
1.3 Goals of the Report This technical report has been prepared to support the geological and terrain component of the Environmental Assessment report prepared for the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEA Agency) and the Section 52 application to the NEB. As well as reviewing background geological information and describing the study methodology, it discusses the geological setting, provides a narrative description of terrain/geological conditions for the Project, compares the Proposed and Existing Routes, and identifies supplementary study requirements. As noted in Section 1.2, it is designed to satisfy the information needs identified in the NEB Filing Manual and the TOR issued for the Project (CEA Agency et al. 2005).
2.0 METHODOLOGY
2.1 Spatial Boundaries Three spatial boundaries were considered in the geotechnical report. These spatial boundaries ranged from a local scale to a regional scale (see Table 1).
TABLE 1
SPATIAL BOUNDARIES OF THE TMX - ANCHOR LOOP PROJECT
Scale Study Area Project Footprint The land area to be disturbed by construction and clearing activities Local Study Area A 2 km wide area (1 km on each side of the Proposed Route) located mainly in the montane ecoregion Regional Study Area 9,319 km2 covered by ten 1:50 000 scale map sheets within the Greater Yellowhead Ecosystem
2.1.1 Project Footprint The Project Footprint is defined as the land area along the pipeline route that is expected to be disturbed by pipeline construction and clean-up activities. The Project Footprint includes:
• permanent pipeline easement;
• temporary access routes;
• temporary construction workspace;
• temporary stockpile sites, staging areas, borrow pits and camps; and
• the Footprint of proposed permanent facilities (e.g., pump stations related to the TMX - Anchor Loop).
2.1.2 Local Study Area The Local Study Area (LSA) is defined as a 2 km wide band centred on the Proposed Route. The LSA contains the Project Footprint area and encompasses most direct and indirect Project-related impacts.
The LSA is generally located within the montane ecoregion within JNP and the MRPP travel corridor.
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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
2.1.3 Regional Study Area The Regional Study Area (RSA) includes 9,319 km2 covered by ten 1:50,000 scale NTS map sheets. The Proposed Route and Existing Route are located roughly in the centre of this large area. The RSA generally corresponds to the Greater Yellowhead Ecosystem and is used for the qualitative analysis of terrain and groundwater conditions.
2.2 Literature Review Terrain/geomorphologic, geological and hydrogeological background information were reviewed. Published bedrock geology maps exist for the Project Footprint, LSA and portions of the RSA, however, surficial geology and hydrogeology mapping is only available for the Alberta/JNP portion of the Project. References cited, including consultant geotechnical reports concerned with the existing Trans Mountain pipeline, are listed in Section 8.1.
2.3 Data Collection
2.3.1 Pre-Field Work Terrain and surficial geology conditions have been mapped within the LSA based on interpretation of 1:40,000 and 1:60,000 scale black and white stereo aerial photos. The Terrain Classification System for BC (Howes and Kenk 1988) was used. Primary objectives during the aerial photo interpretation exercise were to map the distribution of landforms and surficial deposits and to identify areas of actual or potential geotechnical concern. These areas of actual or potential geotechnical concern included ground instabilities (landslides) and other natural hazards such as debris flows and avalanche tracks, shallow bedrock areas, sidehill segments and wetlands, as well as areas that have erodible surficial materials, are prone to wind erosion, have poor surface drainage and/or potential for flooding and exhibit evidence of groundwater seepage, etc.
The terrain mapping was carried out on a preliminary basis prior to the fieldwork then in a final version, with the benefit of field observations and other ground truth information, on return to the office. Results of the terrain mapping study are presented on a series of 1:20,000 scale aerial photo-based Environmental Resource Maps (Appendix A, Maps 1 to 24).
2.3.2 Field Work A route reconnaissance was carried out, between July 13 and 15, 2005, by Mr. Ian Jones, P.Geol, of Geo-Engineering and Mr. Alex Creagh of TERA Environmental Consultants. The Proposed Route and the Existing Route were examined on the ground as access conditions permitted. Natural and anthropogenic exposures were documented and areas of geotechnical concern, including those identified during discussions with Integrated Pipeline Projects Inc., the pipeline engineers for the Project, were examined. The MRPP/BC portions of both routes were also examined from the air, using a helicopter out of Valemount, BC. A selection of photographs is presented in Appendix B.
All field investigations were undertaken in accordance with the terms and conditions of BC Parks permits #PG0510206. A research and special activity permit was not required for this component of the field work carried out in JNP.
2.4 Data Interpretation The results of the background literature search, terrain mapping and field reconnaissance were reviewed and analyzed. On this basis, the geological setting was established (Section 3.0) and narrative descriptions were developed for the Project as a whole, as well as for the Alberta/JNP and MRPP/BC portions (Sections 4.1 through 4.3). Section 5.0 compares the Proposed and Existing Routes, while Section 6.0 identifies requirements for supplementary studies.
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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
3.0 SETTING
3.1 Overall Project The Project follows a transect through the Rocky Mountains. From east to west, the western part of the Foothills is first traversed, then the Front Ranges and, finally, a portion of the Main Ranges. Relief and topography are variable. The mountain tops rise as much as 3,100 m above the valley bottom in the Mount Robson area. The bedrock-controlled upper valley slopes are typically steep to very steep, while lower relief and gentler slopes are characteristic of the lower slopes and valley bottom areas. Elevations range from about 1,100 m above sea level (asl) at the east end of the Project (KP/KL 310.1), to 1,060 m asl at the Jasper townsite (KP/KL 375.5), to 1,143 m at Yellowhead Pass (KP/KL 405.6) to 875 m asl at the west end of the Project (KP/KL 468.0).
Yorath and Gadd (1995) present a compilation, based on Geological Survey of Canada maps (Price et al. 1977, Mountjoy 1980, Mountjoy and Price 1985), showing the bedrock geology of the area traversed by the Project (including the Footprint, LSA and parts of the RSA). The Alberta/JNP portion is also mapped by Hamilton et al. (1999). In summary, from east to west:
• Upper Cretaceous clastic sediments (sandstone, siltstone and shale, with coal seams) underlie the Foothills;
• the Front Ranges comprise Paleozoic (Devonian to Permian) carbonates, shales and sandstones and Mesozoic (Triassic, Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous) sandstones, siltstones and shales, respectively forming the ridges and intervening valleys; and
• in the Main Ranges, Hadrynian (Precambrian) sandstones, slates and shales predominate, overlain on the mountain tops and upper valley slopes by quartzites and carbonates of Paleozoic (Cambrian and Ordovician) age.
Structurally, conditions are quite varied. The Foothills strata are folded and faulted while in the Front Ranges, as a result of thrust faulting, Paleozoic bedrock formations generally overlie younger (Mesozoic) strata. In the Main Ranges, the Precambrian strata are intensely folded/faulted but the overlying Cambrian-Ordovician formations are relatively undeformed.
There is no evidence that any of the bedrock formations traversed by the Project is acid-generating.
As noted, terrain/surficial geology mapping exists for the Alberta and JNP portions of the Project (Roed 1970, Reimchen 1975, Reimchen and Bayrock 1975, Bayrock and Reimchen 1980, Levson et al. 2000) but is not available for the MRPP/BC segment. Cordilleran till, a mixture of clay to boulder size material laid down by the glaciers, is the main surficial material of glacial origin, forming ground moraine and moraine blanket/veneer. Sand-gravel glaciofluvial outwash sediments are present locally. Postglacial deposits include colluvium on slopes, fluvial floodplains, terraces and fans, eolian dunes/blankets, recent lacustrine sediments and wetlands.
Hydrogeologically, the Foothills and Rocky Mountains constitute a regional recharge area for major groundwater flow systems that are discharged either to the east within the Interior Plains (Lennox 1993) or within the Southern Rocky Trench to the west (Yorath et al. 1991). Local groundwater flows take place between upland recharge areas and discharge zones along the valley bottoms and in the wetland areas (Barnes 1977, 1978). Several hot and mineral springs, associated with upward groundwater migration along faults, occur close to the Project, including Miette hot springs and Cold Sulphur and Overlander mineral springs in JNP (Gadd 1995). None is located within the LSA.
In general, major natural hazards are avoided by the Proposed and Existing routes. However, a number of ground instabilities (rockslides and slumps) are encroached upon by the Project Footprint or affect slopes close to the Project within the LSA. Based on aerial photo interpretation and limited field observations, these landslides are inferred to be old and inactive in most instances. Creeks with evidence of debris flow activity occur within the LSA and are encountered by the Project Footprint in both JNP and MRPP, while snow avalanche tracks are locally abundant within the LSA in MRPP, but only cross the Project Footprint at one location. Erodible surficial materials occur on slopes and within areas of eolian
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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005 deposits where wind erosion may also be a concern, while valley bottom areas close to the rivers and creeks are susceptible to flooding. Karst terrain, characterized by surface/subsurface solution features including caves, occurs in areas of carbonate (limestone) bedrock close to the Project (outside the LSA but within the RSA) in JNP and MRPP (Rollins 2004) but none is crossed by the Existing or Proposed route.
The pipeline routes are located south of the region where perennially frozen ground is present and are at too low an elevation for alpine permafrost to be a consideration. However, permafrost likely exists in alpine areas within the RSA, and may be present within the LSA in two isolated wetlands in JNP (see Section 4.1.2.9).
3.2 Alberta/Jasper National Park (KP 310 to KP 406) This route segment traverses the western Foothills, the Front Ranges and the eastern part of the Main Ranges. Mountain tops close to the Project rise to elevations in excess of 2,500 m asl, while upper valley slopes are typically bedrock-controlled and steep to very steep. Lower relief and gentler slopes characterize the valley bottom areas and lower valley slopes. Elevations along the Project range from about 1,100 m asl at the Hinton Scraper Trap site (KP/KL 310.1), to 1,060 m asl at the Jasper townsite (KP/KL 375.5), to 1,143 m at Yellowhead Pass (KP/KL 405.6).
Folded/faulted Upper Cretaceous sandstones, siltstones and shales of the Alberta Group and Brazeau Formation underlie the Foothills. Valley bottom areas within the Front Ranges are generally developed, on clastic sediments (sandstone, conglomerate and shale/mudstone) of Triassic (Spray River Group), Jurassic (Fernie Group) and Lower Cretaceous (Luscar and Cadomin formations) age, while the ridges comprise Upper Devonian and Mississippian carbonates, part of the Fairholme Group and Sassenach, Palliser and Banff formations (which have been thrust over younger Mesozoic strata). Miette Group sandstones, slates and shales underlie the Jasper townsite and areas to the west. On the mountain tops and upper slopes, the Precambrian strata are overlain by Gog Group quartzites and carbonates (Snake Indian, Eldon, Pika, Arctomys and Survey Peak formations) of mostly Cambrian age.
In terms of surficial geology, the dominant deposit is till deposited by Cordilleran (mountain) glaciers. It forms ground moraine and moraine blankets/veneers within the Foothills and along the lower valley slopes in the Front and Main ranges. Coarse, cobbly and bouldery, sand-gravel glaciofluvial outwash sediments occur within the Jasper townsite and locally elsewhere. Colluvium on slopes, fluvial floodplains and terraces, fluvial/colluvial fans, recent lake basins and wetlands are the main postglacial landforms, with minor eolian dunes/blankets. Valley bottom areas close to the rivers and creeks are prone to flooding, while the wetlands are poorly drained, often with standing water. As noted, wind erosion may be a concern in areas of eolian deposits, e.g., close to Jasper Lake and in the Jasper townsite.
Evidence of mass wasting and natural hazards close to the Alberta portion of the Project is limited. Within JNP, a number of rockslides and slumps, mostly inferred to be old and inactive, occur along the Miette River valley walls west of Jasper. Debris flow activity is widespread and some avalanche tracks were mapped. Karst terrain, with caves, exists within the RSA in the Roche Miette, Pyramid Mountain and Maligne Canyon areas. Possible permafrost was observed in two wetland areas within the LSA in JNP. Perennially frozen ground likely also occurs in alpine areas outside the LSA, but within the RSA.
3.3 Mount Robson Provincial Park/British Columbia (KP 406 to KP 468) This portion of the Project is entirely located within the Main Ranges. The mountain tops, rising to 3,954 m asl (Mount Robson), are as much as 3,100 m above the Fraser River valley bottom and the bedrock-controlled upper valley slopes are steep to very steep. Typically, the valley bottom areas and lower slopes have lower relief and gentler slopes. Elevations along the Project range from 1,143 m at Yellowhead Pass (KP/KL 405.6) to about 875 m asl in the Rearguard area at the west end of the Project (KP/KL 468.0).
Sandstone, slate and shale bedrock of the Middle Miette Group is mostly traversed by the MRPP/BC portion of the Project. Cambrian quartzites and carbonates overlie the Precambrian strata on mountain tops and upper valley slopes within the RSA.
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As elsewhere, Cordilleran till is the dominant surficial deposit of glacial origin, forming ground moraine and moraine blanket/veneer. Glaciofluvial sand-gravel outwash deposits are mapped in the vicinity of Yellowhead and Whitney lakes, and locally elsewhere. Postglacial landforms include colluvium on slopes, fluvial sediments along the Fraser River valley bottom, wetlands and occasional recent lake basins. Areas close to rivers and creeks are susceptible to flooding and the wetlands are typically very poorly drained, with standing water.
Mass wasting in the form of landslides and debris flows is fairly widespread. As elsewhere, most of the terrain instabilities, such as rockslides and slumps, are inferred to be old and inactive. Evidence of past and recent debris flow activity was also observed and snow avalanche tracks are locally abundant, particularly in MRPP. Karst terrain with caves exists in the Moose River headwaters (Goat and Arctomys creek valleys) and Berg Lake area in MRPP, all located within the RSA. No evidence of permafrost was observed; however, as elsewhere, it likely occurs in alpine areas outside the LSA.
4.0 RESULTS
4.1 Proposed Route Section 4.1.1 describes conditions along the Proposed Route within the LSA, while Sections 4.1.2 and 4.1.3 discuss conditions along the Project Footprint for the Proposed Route within the Alberta/JNP and MRPP/BC portions of the Project, respectively.
4.1.1 Overall Project
4.1.1.1 Physiography The Proposed Route crosses the western edge of the Foothills at about KP/KL 321.5 and the boundary between the Front and Main ranges at about KP/KL 372.0 (Gadd and Yorath 1995). Elevations along the Proposed Route range from about 1,100 m asl at the Hinton Scraper Trap site (KL/KP 310.1), to 1,060 m asl at Jasper townsite (KL/KP 375.5), to 1,143 m at Yellowhead Pass (KL/KP 405.6), to 875 m asl at the west end of the Project (KL/KP 468.0).
4.1.1.2 Bedrock Geology As detailed in the Section 3.0, Mesozoic clastic bedrock underlies the Foothills and valley bottom areas of the Front Ranges, Paleozoic carbonates and quartzites form the ridges in the Front Ranges and mountain tops in the Main Ranges, and Precambrian strata exist along the valleys in the Main Ranges. Within the LSA, the proposed route encounters bedrock in some areas along the Athabasca River valley east of Jasper and where the alignment follows the abandoned CNA Railway grade west of the townsite.
4.1.1.3 Karst Karst terrain with caves exists in the Roche Miette, Pyramid Mountain and Maligne Canyon areas of JNP, and in the Goat and Arctomys creek valleys (Moose River headwaters) and Berg Lake area in MRPP. However, these occurrences are all located outside the LSA, as previously noted.
4.1.1.4 Surficial Geology Cordilleran till is the dominant glacial surficial deposit within the LSA, forming ground moraine and moraine blanket/veneer, with local glaciofluvial sand-gravel outwash sediments. As elsewhere, postglacial deposits include colluvium on slopes and fluvial sediments, forming floodplains, terraces and fans along the Athabasca, Miette and Fraser river valley bottoms. Eolian deposits exist in the Jasper Lake and Jasper townsite areas and wetlands, locally extensive, are encountered throughout. Sections 4.1.2.3 and 4.1.3.3 discuss the interpreted distribution of landforms and surficial materials within the LSA (Appendix A, Environmental Resource Maps).
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4.1.1.5 Fluvial Geomorphology The Athabasca River has a braided channel and active floodplain bordered by inactive floodplain/low terrace and inactive braided floodplain areas. Major tributaries including the Fiddle, Snake Indian, Rocky and Snaring rivers, which exhibit a “trellised” drainage pattern related to the overall northwest-southeast trending bedrock structure in the Front Ranges, also have braided channels and flow across extensive fluvial fans to their confluences with the Athabasca River. East from Yellowhead Pass to Jasper townsite, the Miette River mostly meanders irregularly within a narrow floodplain bordered by inactive floodplain/low terrace areas but, in places, flows through extensive wetlands. In MRPP and BC, the Fraser River for the most part has an irregularly meandering channel and narrow active floodplain, bordered by inactive floodplain/low terrace areas. Downstream from the Robson River confluence, however, it flows around gravel bars and vegetated islands and its channel may be described as braided and in places anastomosing.
4.1.1.6 Mass Wasting and Natural Hazards Within the LSA, mass wasting features are generally confined to areas in JNP west of the Jasper townsite and MRPP. Rockslides and slumps in bedrock and/or surficial material, inferred to be mostly old and inactive, occur along the Miette and Fraser valley walls and are locally encroached upon by the Project Footprint. Streams exhibiting evidence of debris flow activity are also encountered and snow avalanche tracks are locally abundant. Snow avalanches are most prevalent on the west side of the Continental Divide, in MRPP and BC.
4.1.1.7 Potential for Flooding or Erosion Within the LSA there are fluvial floodplain and wetland areas that are poorly drained, with standing water, and/or frequently inundated. Potential for erosion exists, as noted, on long gentle slopes and in moderately to steeply sloping terrain, as well as in areas of erosion-susceptible (e.g., eolian) surficial materials.
4.1.1.8 Wind Erosion Potential for erosion by wind exists in areas that are composed of eolian silt-sand dune and blanket deposits (e.g., in the Jasper Lake area). Windblown silt and sand, known as loess, also exists within the Jasper townsite and elsewhere along the Athabasca River valley and may be susceptible to erosion following disturbance associated with construction.
4.1.1.9 Permafrost Evidence of possible permafrost was observed within two wetland areas in JNP, northwest of the Project at KP/KL 344.4 and close to the Project Footprint between KP/KL 361.9 and KP/KL 362.3, but at no other locations within the LSA. Perennially frozen ground likely also exists in alpine areas within the RSA.
4.1.2 Alberta/Jasper National Park (KP 310 to KP 406)
4.1.2.1 Physiography Section 4.1.1.1 discusses the relief and topography within the LSA in the vicinity of the Proposed Route. Elevations along the Footprint for the Proposed Route range from about 1,100 m asl at the east end of the Project (KP/KL 310.1), to 1,060 m asl at the Jasper townsite (KP/KL 375.5), to 1,143 m asl at the Yellowhead Pass (KP/KL 405.6).
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4.1.2.2 Bedrock Geology East of the Jasper townsite in JNP, the Project Footprint for the Proposed Route encounters predominantly limestone bedrock, forming northwest-southeast trending ridges in three areas: between KP/KL 345.85 and KP/KL 346.0; at Windy Point (KP/KL 349.3 to KP/KL 350.3); and close to and south of Pyramid Creek (KP/KL 371.9 to KP/KL 373.0). Sandstone and shale bedrock is encountered along the abandoned CNA Railway grade west of the townsite, between KL 396.3 and KL 398.2, KL 398.6 and KL 399.5, and KL 402.0 and KL 405.4. Plates B2 and B3 in Appendix B, show the Windy Point area and Plates B5 and B6 show the Pyramid Creek area.
4.1.2.3 Surficial Geology Between the east end of the Project and the JNP boundary (KL 325.7), the Proposed Route traverses gently to moderately sloping and undulating ground moraine (till) and moraine-veneered bedrock, with occasional short wetland segments. Fluvial deposits of the Drystone Creek fan and Athabasca River floodplain are encountered close to the JNP boundary.
West from the park boundary to the Athabasca River crossing (KL 336.8 to KL 337.5), the Proposed Route follows the south side of Highway 16, crossing the Fiddle River and its fan then traverses fluvial floodplain/terrace and fan terrain, with some wetlands, along the Athabasca River valley bottom. Southwest and south from the crossing, fluvial terraces and fans and ground moraine (till) benches are encountered, with fluvial floodplains at the crossings of the Snaring River and a number of smaller streams.
Between KP/KL 375.0 and KP/KL 381.6, in the Jasper townsite area, the Proposed Route generally parallels the existing Trans Mountain pipeline. Initially, it follows the north side of Highway 16 then ascends a steep terrace scarp, along a sidehill, onto an extensive cobbly-bouldery glaciofluvial terrace (see Plates B7 and B8). The alignment trends south and west across the terrace, in part following Wynd Road, and descends to the valley bottom and follows it to a crossing of the Miette River at KP/KL 383.2. Between KP/KL 383.2 and KP/KL 388.1, sand-gravel fluvial floodplain/terrace terrain is traversed along the valley bottom.
West from KP/KL 388.1 to the JNP boundary at KP/KL 405.6 the route parallels Highway 16 for a short distance then, between KP/KL 391.0 and KP/KL 396.4, follows Trans Mountain along the Miette River valley bottom (i.e., through the Miette wetlands). Northwest from KP/KL 396.4, the Proposed Route follows the abandoned CNA Railway grade along the north side of the valley bottom, between the Miette River floodplain and the moderate to steep valley wall (Plates B9 to B11). Most of the terrain is bedrock- controlled and, except for some fluvial terraces and fans, bedrock is expected to be encountered more or less throughout.
4.1.2.4 Fluvial Geomorphology As discussed in Section 4.1.1.5, the Athabasca and Miette rivers within JNP have channels respectively described as braided and irregularly meandering. Tributary rivers and creeks typically have braided channels and frequently flow across fluvial fans to their confluences with the rivers.
4.1.2.5 Hydrogeology Local groundwater systems are recharged in upland areas and discharged within the wetland and valley bottom areas in the LSA.
4.1.2.6 Mass Wasting and Natural Hazards Mass wasting within the Alberta segment of the LSA is limited. There is, however, fairly widespread evidence of debris flow activity within JNP, along Vine Creek (KP/KL 351.4), Corral Creek (KP/KL 352.8), Cobblestone Creek (KP/KL 355.6) and an unnamed creek (at KP/KL 357.1). West of Jasper, streams exhibiting evidence of debris flow activity include Meadow Creek (KL 390.1), Clairvaux Creek
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(KP/KL 394.8) and Derr Creek (KP/KL 400.1). A number of rockslides and slumps, mostly inferred to be old and inactive, also exist along the Miette River valley west of Jasper. Rockslides/slumps affecting the valley walls upslope from the proposed route, and locally encroached upon by the pipeline route, were identified on air photos at KL 388.4 to KL 388.9, KP/KL 391.5, KP/KL 398.2 to KP/KL 398.6, KP/KL 402.6 and KL 403.7 approximately, as shown on the Environmental Resource Maps in Appendix A.
4.1.2.7 Potential for Flooding or Erosion The Project Footprint for the Proposed Route crosses floodplain areas that are frequently inundated and wetlands which are poorly drained, with standing water. Potential for erosion exists on long gentle slopes and in moderately to steeply sloping terrain, as well as in areas of erosion-susceptible surficial materials.
4.1.2.8 Wind Erosion Eolian sediments susceptible to wind erosion are found in the Jasper Lake area, as well as in the Jasper townsite and elsewhere along the Athabasca River valley. These deposits may be eroded by the wind if disturbed.
4.1.2.9 Permafrost Circular water-filled depressions suggestive of thermokarst (i.e., degrading or thawing permafrost) were observed in two wetland areas within the LSA. These occurrences are located northwest of the pipeline alignment at KP/KL 344.4 and, close to the Project Footprint, between KP/KL 361.9 and KP/KL 362.3.
4.1.3 Mount Robson Provincial Park/British Columbia (KP 406 to KP 468)
4.1.3.1 Physiography This portion of the alignment lies within the Main Ranges. Elevations within the Project Footprint range from 1,143 m at Yellowhead Pass (KP/KL 405.6) to about 875 m asl in the Rearguard area at the west end of the Project (KP/KL 468.0).
4.1.3.2 Bedrock Geology Sandstones, slates and shales, part of the Middle Miette Group, are traversed by the Proposed Route within MRPP and the BC portion of the Project. As elsewhere in the Main Ranges, Cambrian quartzites and carbonates are exposed, overlying the Precambrian strata, on the upper slopes of mountains such as Mount Robson (located outside the LSA but within the RSA).
The Project Footprint of the Proposed Route encounters bedrock only locally, for example between Yellowhead Pass and the south end of Moose Lake and locally along the northeast side of Moose Lake.
4.1.3.3 Surficial Geology West from the east Park boundary to about KP/KL 416.0, the Proposed Route parallels the existing Trans Mountain pipeline along the south side of Highway 16 (Plate B12). Ground moraine (till) is mostly traversed. In addition, fluvial fans (e.g., that deposited by Rockingham Creek), hummocky sand-gravel glaciofluvial deposits, close to Yellowhead and Whitney lakes, and recent lake basins and wetlands are encountered. Next, between KP/KL 416.0 and KP 435.3, theroute crosses to the north side of the valley bottom and generally parallels the CN Railway tracks along the base of the valley slope (sections of the abandoned CNA Railway grade, Highway 16 and access trails are also followed). Ground moraine is mostly traversed (cutslopes in till and, locally, sand and gravel were observed along the CN Railway tracks), with some colluvial veneers/blankets (Iincluding slide debris) and fluvial fans (Plates B14 and B15).
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Extensive wetland areas exist at the south end of Moose Lake, as shown on Plate B16. Between KP/KL 435.3 and KP/KL 448.9, the Proposed Route parallels the existing Trans Mountain pipeline, upslope from Highway 16 and the CN Railway, along the northeast side of Moose Lake (Plate B17). Moraine and colluvium veneered bedrock terrain is encountered initially, with fluvial and colluvial fans predominating northwest of KP/KL 442.5 approximately. The alignment traverses fluvial terraces and fans, with local ground moraine, between Highway 16 and the existing Trans Mountain pipeline, northwest from KP/KL 448.9 to KP/KL 455.2.
From KP/KL 455.2 to KP/KL 457.5, the Proposed Route traverses sand-gravel fluvial terraces along the north side of the Fraser River. Northwest from KP/KL 457.5, there is a new cut section which avoids the “Shale Hill” area along the existing Trans Mountain pipeline alignment. Trending southwest across the Fraser River and lower CN Railway tracks, it parallels the tracks on the upslope side to the west before rejoining the Trans Mountain pipeline alignment at KP/KL 461.4. This route segment is underlain by fluvial floodplain/terrace deposits close to the river and ground moraine (till) and colluvium and moraine veneered bedrock on the valley slopes. Finally, the route continues to parallel the existing Trans Mountain pipeline along the south side of the Fraser River to the MRPP boundary, at KP/KL 466.3. Moraine (till) deposits are mostly traversed, with some fluvial fans
The short route segment in BC (KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 468.0) continues to parallel the existing Trans Mountain pipeline. It traverses moraine (till) deposits and fluvial fans along the Fraser River valley bottom.
4.1.3.4 Fluvial Geomorphology For the most part, the Fraser River has an irregularly meandering channel but also, for a distance of about 13 km, flows through Moose Lake. In the vicinity of, and downstream from, the Robson River confluence, the river has a braided and anastomosing channel as it flows around a series of gravel bars and wooded islands.
4.1.3.5 Hydrogeology Similar to the Alberta/JNP segment, the Project Footprint of the Proposed Route in this area mostly crosses valley bottom and wetland terrain. These imperfectly to poorly drained areas serve as discharge zones for local groundwater flow systems that are recharged in nearby upland areas outside of the Project Footprint (but within the LSA and RSA).
4.1.3.6 Mass Wasting and Natural Hazards Evidence of mass wasting in the form of landslides and debris flows is widespread in the vicinity of this portion of the Project. As shown on Plate B13, an active landslide exists on the west side of Yellowhead Pass (north of the Project at KP/KL 407.0 approximately). Other rockslides and slumps, inferred from aerial photographs and limited field observations to be old and inactive, were identified in the vicinity of: KL 420.1, KL 420.9 to KL 421.3, KL 426.2 to KL 426.7, KL 426.2 to KL 426.7, KP/KL 438.7 to KP/KL 438.9, and KL 449.3. There is evidence of debris flow activity along Rockingham Creek (KP/KL 411.6), Grant Brook Creek (KP/KL 428.0), Cochrane Creek (KP/KL 465.8) and two unnamed creeks (KP/KL 452.7 and KP/KL 456.6). A recent debris flow, crossing both CN Railway tracks and the existing Trans Mountain pipeline, was observed during the route reconnaissance at KP/KL 466.6. Snow avalanche tracks are widespread on this (west) side of the Continental Divide, as noted.
4.1.3.7 Potential for Flooding and Erosion Valley bottom areas close to the Fraser River and its tributaries, including portions of the Project Footprint for the Proposed Route, may be susceptible to flooding. Potential for erosion exists, as elsewhere, on long gentle slopes, in terrain with moderate to steep slopes and in areas of erosion-susceptible surficial materials.
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4.1.3.8 Wind Erosion Eolian landforms were not encountered along the Project Footprint for the Proposed Route in MRPP and BC. However, wind erosion may be a concern if these materials are encountered locally, particularly following disturbance.
4.1.3.9 Permafrost No evidence of permafrost was observed within the Project Footprint for the Proposed Route.
4.2 Existing Route The Proposed and Existing Routes either follow the same alignment or diverge only slightly from each other and terrain/geological conditions are, for the most part, very similar. The following discussion of the Existing Route highlights differences, where they exist, between the two route options. Section 4.2.1 discusses conditions within the LSA for the Existing Route, while the Project Footprints for the Existing Route are discussed in Sections 4.2.2 (Alberta/JNP) and 4.2.3 (MRPP/BC), respectively.
4.2.1 Overall Project
4.2.1.1 Physiography The physiographic setting for the Existing Route is the same as that described for the Proposed Route (Section 4.1.1.1).
4.2.1.2 Bedrock Geology The bedrock geological setting and conditions within the LSA are the same for the Existing Route as described for the Proposed Route in Section 4.1.1.2.
4.2.1.3 Karst As noted in Section 4.1.1.3, areas of karst terrain exist in JNP and MRPP. However, these occurrences are all located outside the LSA.
4.2.1.4 Surficial Geology The distribution of landforms and surficial materials within the LSA, as shown on the Environmental Resource Maps in Appendix A, is the same as that described for the Proposed Route (Section 4.1.1.4).
4.2.1.5 Fluvial Geomorphology Section 4.1.1.5 describes the fluvial geomorphology of the Athabasca, Miette and Fraser rivers and their tributaries within the LSA.
4.2.1.6 Hydrogeology Section 4.1.1.6 describes hydrogeological conditions within the LSA.
4.2.1.7 Mass Wasting and Natural Hazards The broad distribution of ground instabilities, creeks exhibiting evidence of debris flow activity and snow avalanche tracks within the LSA is discussed in Section 4.1.1.7.
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4.2.1.8 Potential for Flooding or Erosion As noted in Section 4.1.1.8, areas susceptible to flooding exist along the river and tributary creeks. Erosion is potentially a concern on long gentle slopes, in areas with moderate to steep slopes and where fine-grained near surface materials are prevalent.
4.2.1.9 Wind Erosion Wind erosion may be a concern in areas with eolian near surface materials, in the Jasper Lake and Jasper townsite areas primarily.
4.2.1.10 Permafrost Two wetland areas with possible permafrost have been identified within the LSA in JNP (Section 4.1.1.9). One area is located close to the Project Footprint for the Existing Route.
4.2.2 Alberta/Jasper National Park (KP 310 to KP 406)
4.2.2.1 Physiography The physiographic setting, the same for both routes, is discussed in Section 4.1.2.1.
4.2.2.2 Bedrock Geology As with the Proposed Route, the Project Footprint for the Existing Route encounters predominantly carbonate bedrock in three areas in JNP east of Jasper: between KP/KL 345.85 and KP/KL 346, between KP/KL 349.3 and KP/KL 350.3 (Windy Point) and in the Pyramid Creek area (KP/KL 371.9 to KP/KL 373.0). West of Jasper, the Project Footprint for the Existing Route encounters mostly sandstone and shale bedrock between KP 396.3 and KP 398.2, between KP 398.7 and KP 399.5 and between KP 401.9 and KP 402.6 approximately.
4.2.2.3 Surficial Geology Between the east end of the Project and the JNP boundary (KP 325.7), the Existing Route traverses ground moraine/moraine-veneered bedrock and wetlands terrain, with fluvial deposits of the Drystone Creek fan and the Athabasca River encountered close to the Park boundary. From the JNP boundary to the Athabasca River crossing, an alignment to the north of Highway 16 is followed, predominantly traversing fluvial floodplain/terrace and fan terrain with some wetlands (including locally extensive areas of open water). After crossing the river, the existing Trans Mountain pipeline is paralleled south along the Athabasca River valley, crossing fluvial terraces/fans and ground moraine (till) benches, to the Jasper townsite. As discussed in Section 4.1.2.3, bedrock ridges are encountered by the Project Footprint between KL/KP 345.85 and KL/KP 346.0, at Windy Point and in the Pyramid Creek area.
In the vicinity of the Jasper townsite, the Existing Route initially follows the north side of Highway 16 before ascending a steep terrace scarp, along a sidehill, onto a cobbly-bouldery glaciofluvial terrace. It then trends south and west across the terrace, descends to the Miette River valley bottom and follows it across sand-gravel fluvial floodplain/terrace terrain, with some wetlands, to a crossing of the Miette River at KP/KL 383.2.
Northwest from the river crossing, the alignment traverses fluvial terraces along the south side of the Miette River, with some wetland terrain. Between KP 388.1 and the west JNP boundary at KP 405.6 the Existing Route mostly traverses fluvial floodplain terrain and wetlands along the valley bottom, with some fluvial terraces and fans. A steep bedrock-controlled sidehill is traversed upslope from the proposed route between KP 396.3 and KP 399.0.
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4.2.2.4 Fluvial Geomorphology Section 4.1.2.4 describes the fluvial geomorphology of the Athabasca and Miette rivers and their tributaries within JNP.
4.2.2.5 Hydrogeology Hydrogeological conditions are as described for the Proposed Route in Section 4.1.2.5.
4.2.2.6 Mass Wasting and Natural Hazards Evidence of mass wasting close to the Alberta portion of the Project is limited. Unnamed creeks with a history of debris flow activity are crossed by the Footprint of the Existing Route at KP 335.5 (Plate B1) and paralleled between KP 335.9 and 336.2. At the latter location, an aboveground facility along the existing Trans Mountain pipeline (the Pocohontas valve site) has been repeatedly affected by debris flows. According to BGC Engineering Inc. (2004), the last recorded events were in 1973, 1989 and 1990. East of Jasper, other streams prone to debris flow activity include Vine Creek (KP/KL 357.4), Corral Creek (KP/KL 352.8), Cobblestone Creek (KP/KL 355.6) and an unnamed creek at KP/KL 357.1. A number of rockslides and slumps, inferred to be mostly old and inactive, exist along the Miette River valley west of Jasper. Only one of these ground instabilities, believed to be inactive, is encountered within the Footprint of the Existing Route, between KP 398.2 and KP 398.6. Evidence of debris flow activity exists along Clarivaux Creek (KP/KL 394.8) and Derr Creek (KP/KL 400.1).
4.2.2.7 Potential for Flooding or Erosion Along with the Proposed Route (Section 4.1.2.7), the Existing Route crosses areas that are poorly drained with standing water or frequently inundated. Potential for erosion exists on long gentle slopes and in moderately to steeply sloping terrain, as well as in areas with erosion-susceptible surficial materials.
4.2.2.8 Wind Erosion As discussed in Section 4.1.2.8, eolian surficial materials exist within the LSA in the Jasper Lake and Jasper townsite areas. Wind erosion may be a concern, particularly following terrain disturbance.
4.2.2.9 Permafrost As discussed in Section 4.1.2.9, possible thermokarst terrain (suggestive of degrading permafrost) was observed in two wetlands within the LSA, one located close to the Project Footprint for the Existing Route.
4.2.3 Mount Robson Provincial Park/British Columbia (KP 406 to KP 468)
4.2.3.1 Physiography The physiographic setting is the same as described for the Proposed Route in Section 4.1.3.1. Elevations within the Project Footprint range from 1,143 m at Yellowhead Pass (KP/KL 405.6) to about 875 m asl at the west end of the Project (KP/KL 468.0).
4.2.3.2 Bedrock Geology Sandstone, slate and shale bedrock, part of the Middle Miette Group, is traversed. Cambrian quartzites and carbonates overlie the Precambrian strata on the mountain tops and upper valley slopes (i.e., outside the LSA), as elsewhere in the Main Ranges.
Similar to the Proposed Route, the Project Footprint of the Existing Route encounters bedrock locally in the Yellowhead Pass/Moose Lake area. The terrain mapping suggests shallow bedrock is only
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4.2.3.3 Surficial Geology From the JNP boundary (KP/KL 405.6) west to about KP/KL 416.0, the existing Trans Mountain pipeline is paralleled along the south side of Highway 16, mostly traversing ground moraine (till) with some wetland areas. The Rockingham Creek fluvial fan is also crossed, together with an area of hummocky glaciofluvial outwash (sand-gravel) in the vicinity of Yellowhead and Whitney lakes.
Between KP 416.0 and KP 435.3, the alignment traverses a series of moraine (till) benches, then descends to and follows the poorly drained Fraser River valley bottom (the river is crossed at KP 417.4). Fluvial terraces and wetlands, some extensive, are traversed along the valley bottom, with some ground moraine segments and fluvial fans.
Trans Mountain is again paralleled, upslope from Highway 16 and the CN Railway, along the side of Moose Lake between KP/KL 435.3 and KP/KL 448.9. Initially, moraine- and colluvium-veneered bedrock is traversed, while fluvial/colluvial fans predominate northwest at about KP/KL 442.5. Between KP/KL 448.9 and KP/KL 455.2, the existing route traverses fluvial terraces and fans, with local ground moraine, colluvium and glaciofluvial outwash deposits. From KP/KL 455.2 to KP/KL 457.5, the alignment traverses sand-gravel alluvial terraces along the north side of the Fraser River.
Northwest from KP/KL 457.5, the route continues along the north side of the river, crossing to the south side at KP 461.2. In the Shale Hill area, it passes under Highway 16 at two locations, via timber box culverts, and includes an aerial crossing of an incised gully. The route is predominantly underlain by fluvial floodplain/terrace deposits, with some colluvium- and moraine-veneered bedrock. Finally, the existing Trans Mountain pipeline is paralleled along the south side of the Fraser River, crossing MRPP boundary at KP/KL 466.3, to the west end of the Project. Moraine (till) deposits are traversed, with local fluvial terraces and fans.
4.2.3.4 Fluvial Geomorphology Section 4.1.3.4 discusses the fluvial geomorphology of the Fraser River and its tributaries within the LSA.
4.2.3.5 Hydrogeology Section 4.1.3.5 discusses the hydrogeological setting for the Proposed Route which is the same as for the Existing Route.
4.2.3.6 Mass Wasting and Natural Hazards Evidence of mass wasting in the form of landslides and debris flows is widespread in the vicinity of this portion of the Project Footprint. Rockslides and slumps locally affect the Fraser River valley slopes but are not generally crossed by the Footprint of the Existing Route. Evidence of debris flow activity is visible along Rockingham Creek (KP/KL 411.6), Ghitta Creek (KP 420.4), Grant Brook Creek (KP/KL 428.0), Cochrane Creek (KP/KL 465.8) and two unnamed creeks (KP/KL 452.7 and KP/KL 456.6). Snow avalanche tracks are widespread. An apparently recent debris flow, crossing both CN Railway tracks and the existing Trans Mountain pipeline, was observed during the route reconnaissance at KP/KL 466.6.
4.2.3.7 Potential for Flooding or Erosion Valley bottom areas within the Project Footprint for the Existing Route are susceptible to flooding. As elsewhere, there is potential for erosion on long gentle slopes and in terrain with moderate to steep slopes, as well as in areas of erosion-susceptible surficial materials.
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4.2.3.8 Wind Erosion Areas with near surface eolian materials susceptible to wind erosion were not encountered within this portion of the Project Footprint for the Existing Route. If they are present locally, wind erosion may be a concern.
4.2.3.9 Permafrost Permafrost was not encountered within the Project Footprint for the Existing Route.
4.3 Permanent Facilities Construction of new pump stations at Wolf in Alberta and Chappel in BC is proposed, along with associated aboveground facilities.
4.3.1 Wolf Pump Station (KP 188.0) This facility is proposed to be located about 35 km east of Edson, Alberta (see Figure 1). Soils/bedrock data are not available; however, published surficial geology information suggests the site is underlain by ground moraine (Andriashek et al. 1979). Construction of the facility at this location is expected to be geotechnically feasible due to the generally good bearing capacity of tills in the area. To confirm this preliminary assessment, site-specific subsurface information is required.
4.3.2 Chappel Pump Station (KP 555.5) The location of the Chappel Pump Station is within the Southern Rocky Mountain Trench 40 km south of Valemount (see Figure 1). Terrain mapping by BGC Engineering Inc. (1999) suggests the facility site is underlain by colluvial/fluvial fan deposits. Near surface materials are expected to comprise silts, sands and gravels. Although site-specific information on soils and bedrock is not available, construction of the proposed facility is expected to be geotechnically feasible. Subsurface data from the site are required to confirm this preliminary assessment.
4.3.3 Scraper Trap Site (KP 468.0) Based on the terrain mapping completed for the Project, this facility will be located in an area of ground moraine (till). On this basis, it is expected to be feasible, geotechnically, to construct the proposed facility at this location. Site-specific subsurface information is required to confirm this preliminary assessment.
4.3.4 Valve Sites Valve site locations have not been finalized; however, it is anticipated that all of these facilities will be located within the Project Footprint. Prior to construction, subsurface conditions will be investigated to confirm site suitability from a geotechnical perspective.
4.3.5 Access Roads Existing roads, such as the Celestine Lake, Snaring and Palisades roads north of the Jasper townsite in JNP, will be used during construction, where available. No major geological/geotechnical concerns are identified.
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4.4 Temporary Facilities for Construction
4.4.1 Campsites Three campsite locations are being considered. The first is at the old Jasper Dump Site (KP/KL 365), the second and third are at the abandoned Red Pass (KP/KL 448.8) and existing Dennison gravel pits (KP/KL 465) in MRPP. Developed on coarse glaciofluvial terrace and fluvial fan materials, all three sites are expected to be underlain by gravels and sands, likely veneered with windblown silt (loess) at the Jasper site. No major geological/geotechnical concerns are identified at any of the sites; however, wind erosion of the near surface silts may need to be addressed at the Jasper location.
4.4.2 Staging Areas Staging areas, identified as stockpile storage areas on the Environmental Resource Maps (Appendix A) have been identified at a number of locations close to the CN Railway or Highway 16. All of these sites have readily-developed access to the existing pipeline and /or proposed loop. No major geological/geotechnical concerns have been identified.
4.4.3 Stockpile Sites Stockpile sites have been identified at a number of locations that are close to the CN Railway or Highway 16 and have existing or readily-developed access to the existing and/or proposed loop. The proposed sites are often previously-utilized stockpile sites or old gravel pits. No major geological/geotechnical concerns are identified.
4.4.4 Access Roads Temporary construction access will be developed wherever suitable roads are available, including those used for operation of the existing Trans Mountain pipeline. If required, existing trails may also be upgraded. No major geological/geotechnical concerns are identified with respect to the use of these roads and trails.
5.0 ROUTE COMPARISON AND EVALUATION The proposed and existing Trans Mountain pipeline routes are very similar in terms of terrain/geological and geotechnical conditions. There are differences, however, in terms of the length of bedrock terrain encountered, the occurrence of coarse (cobbly-bouldery) glaciofluvial deposits and the length of wetland terrain. As well, the number of creeks exhibiting evidence of debris flow activity and terrain instabilities close to the respective routes is different. To assist in comparing the two routes, Table 2 summarizes available information concerning these topics.
TABLE 2
COMPARISON OF PROPOSED ROUTE AND EXISTING ROUTE
Proposed Route Existing Route Factor Overall AB/JNP MRPP/BC Overall AB/JNP MRPP/BC Length of Bedrock Terrain (km) 31.2 19.3 11.9 25.2 16.4 8.8 Length of Coarse Outwash Deposits (km) 14.4 13.9 0.5 12.4 12.4 - Length of Wetland Terrain (km) 6.0 5.2 0.8 11.6 6.1 5.5 Number of Debris Flow Channels 13 7 6 14 7 7 Number of Ground Instabilities close 9 4 5 4 1 3 to/encroaching upon the Route Notes: AB/JNP = KP 310 to KP 406; MRPP/BC = KP 406 to KP 468
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As expected based on the terrain mapping results and field observations, more bedrock terrain is encountered along the proposed route than along the existing route, while the length of wetland terrain along the existing route is greater than along the Proposed Route. Given that both routes follow similar alignments in the vicinity of Jasper townsite (the main area where these surficial materials are prevalent), the lengths of coarse granular soils encountered is similar. The number of debris flow channels crossed by the alignments is also similar, although it should be noted that two of the channels along the existing Trans Mountain pipeline route, at KP 335.5 and between KP 335.9 and KP 336.2, have a history of debris flow events. In the latter case, debris flows have repeatedly buried valve site facilities along the existing Trans Mountain pipeline. The occurrence of ground instabilities close to or encroached upon by the Footprint is greater for the proposed route. Again, this is not unexpected given that the proposed route generally follows along or close to the toe of valley slopes, whereas the existing Trans Mountain pipeline route tends to traverse valley bottom areas away from the valley slopes.
From a terrain/geological and geotechnical perspective, and given the nature and extent of geomorphological processes influencing the landforms crossed by the two routes, it is concluded that the Existing Route is slightly preferable.
6.0 SUPPLEMENTARY STUDIES
6.1 Supplementary Studies Recommended supplementary studies, primarily of a geotechnical nature, include:
• where ground instabilities (rockslides and slumps) exist close to, or are encroached upon by, the Project Footprint of the selected route, field examination of these areas to confirm that the instabilities do not pose a concern for the Project or, if they do, provide a basis for developing mitigative strategies;
• examination of the potential permafrost area close to the Project Footprint in JNP (KP/KL 361.9 to KP/KL 362.4) to establish whether perennially frozen ground is in fact present and, if so, determine whether mitigative measures are required during pipeline construction;
• where, based on preliminary field drilling and geophysical investigations, horizontal directionally drilled (HDD) installations may be feasible, additional detailed investigations of subsurface soil and bedrock conditions to confirm geotechnical HDD feasibility and provide a basis for detailed design of the crossings ;
• investigation of subsurface soil, bedrock and groundwater conditions at proposed aboveground facility locations to provide a basis for detailed engineering design; and
• development of site-specific plans for implementation of drainage and erosion control measures following pipeline installation and construction of permanent facilities.
7.0 CONCLUSIONS This technical report is concerned with the geological component of the physical environment. It addresses the requirements of the TOR for the Project (CEA Agency et al. 2005) and is designed to satisfy the information needs identified in the NEB Filing Manual (NEB 2004). The geological setting for the TMX - Anchor Loop Project is described and narrative descriptions are provided for the Proposed Route and Existing Route.
It is concluded, based on consideration of the occurrence of bedrock terrain, coarse glaciofluvial outwash deposits, wetlands, streams with evidence of debris flow activity and ground instabilities close to or crossed by the Project, that the Existing Route is marginally preferable, from a terrain/geological and geotechnical perspective.
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8.0 REFERENCES
8.1 Literature Cited Andriashek, L.D., Fenton, M.M. and J.D. Root. 1979. Surficial geology, Wabamun Lake (NTS 83G). Alberta Research Council. 1:250 000 scale map.
Barnes, R.G. 1977. Hydrogeology of the Mount Robson-Wapiti area, Alberta (NTS 83E, 83L). Alberta Research Council. Earth Sciences Report 76-5. 33 p.
Barnes, R.G. 1978. Hydrogeology of the Brazeau-Canoe River area, Alberta (NTS 83C, 83D). Alberta Research Council. Earth Sciences Report 77-5. 32 p.
Bayrock, L.A. and T.H.F. Reimchen. 1980. Surficial geology, Alberta Foothills and Rocky Mountains. Alberta Research Council, six 1:250 000 scale maps with legend.
BGC Engineering Inc. 1999. Report on Geotechnical and Hydrotechnical Hazard Assessment, Hinton Scraper Trap to Kamloops Pump Station, Km 309.9 to Km 822.9. Report submitted to Trans Mountain Pipe Line Company Ltd. four volumes.
BGC Engineering Inc. 2004. Draft - Report for Geotechnical Assessment for Terasen Pipelines Proposed Looping. Report submitted to Integrated Pipelines Project Inc. dated June 29. 12 p.
Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency, Parks Canada Agency, National Energy Board, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Transport Canada, Environment Canada, Canadian Transportation Agency and the BC Ministry of Environment (BC Parks). 2005. Scope and Requirements of the Environmental Assessment for the Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. TMX - Anchor Loop Project.
Clague, J. 1975. Late Quaternary sediments and geomorphology of the southern Rocky Mountain trench, British Columbia. Canadian Journal of Earth Science. Volume 12. pp. 595-605.
Energy Resources Conservation Board 1985. Coal Mine Atlas. Operating and Abandoned Coal Mines in Alberta. Report Series ERCB-45. 3 p. plus appendices.
Gadd, B. 1995. Handbook of the Canadian Rockies. Second Edition. Corax Press, Jasper, Alberta. 831 p.
Hamilton, W.N., Price, M.C. and C.W. Langenberg (compilers). 1999. Geological map of Alberta. Alberta Geological Survey, Alberta Energy and Utilities Board. Map 236. 1:1,000,000 scale.
Howes, D.E. and E. Kenk. 1997. Terrain Classification System for British Columbia (Version 2). Fisheries Branch, Ministry of Environment and Surveys and Resource Mapping Branch, Ministry of Crown Lands. Province of British Columbia. 102 p.
Lennox, D.H. 1993. Groundwater in the Interior Plains Region. Subchapter 6F in Sedimentary Cover of the Craton in Canada. Stott, D.F. and J.D. Aitken (ed.). Geological Survey of Canada. Geology of Canada, No 5. p 616-641.
Levson, V.M. and N.W. Rutter. Late Quaternary stratigraphy, Sedimentology and history of the Jasper Townsite area, Alberta, Canada. Canadian Journal of Earth Science. Volume 26. pp. 1325-1342.
Levson, V.M., Rutter, N.W. and B.W. Luckman. 2000. Quaternary Geology of Banff and Jasper National Parks. GAC/MAC Field Trip Guidebook. GeoCanada 2000, Calgary. 80 p.
Mountjoy, E.W. 1980. Geology, Mount Robson. Geological Survey of Canada. Map 1611A. 1:50,000 scale.
Mountjoy, E.W. and R.A. Price. 1985. Geology of Jasper. Geological Survey of Canada. Map 1499A. 1:250,000 scale.
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National Energy Board. 2004. Filing Manual.
Roed, M.A. 1970. Surficial geology, Edson (NTS 83F). Alberta Research Council. 1:250 000 scale map.
Rollins, J. 2004. Caves of the Canadian Rockies and Columbia Mountains. Rocky Mountain Books. Surrey, BC. 336 p.
Price, R.A., Stott, D.F., Campbell, R.B., Mountjoy, E.W. and N.C. Ollerenshaw. 1977. Athabasca River, Alberta-British Columbia (Sheet 83). Geological Survey of Canada. Map 1339A. 1:1,000,000 scale.
TERA/Westland. 2005. Environmental Assessment Report for the Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. TMX - Anchor Loop Project. Prepared by TERA Environmental Consultants and Westland Resource Group Inc., Calgary, AB.
Yorath, CJ., Gordy, P.L., Williams, G.K., Bustin, R.M., Bell, R.T., Souther, J.G. and E.C. Halstead. 1991. Energy and Groundwater Resources of the Canadian Cordillera. Chapter 20 in Geology of the Cordilleran Orogen in Canada. Gabrielse, H. and C.J. Yorath (ed.). Geological Survey of Canada, Geology of Canada, No 4. p 769-801.
Yorath, CJ. and B. Gadd. 1995. Of Rocks, Mountains and Jasper - a Visitor’s Guide to the Geology of Jasper Natural Park. Dundurn Press. Toronto, Ontario. 170 p.
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APPENDIX A
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE MAPS
Page A1
Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Geotechnical Report TMX - Anchor Loop Project November 2005
APPENDIX B
PHOTOPLATES
Page B1
Plate B1 View northeast along existing Trans Mountain alignment, KP/KL 335.5, showing Plate B2 View east from Windy Point, with prominent pipeline “roach” visible in the middle debris flow material (July 2005). distance where existing Trans Mountain alignment crosses gravelly-cobbly colluvial
Page B2 cone.
Plate B3 View southeast from Windy Point, KP/KL 3497, showing existing Trans Mountain Plate B4 View south from Windy Point, KP/KL 349.9, with Jasper Lake visible in middle alignment (July 2005). The project will be located to the north and east (right). distance (July 2005). Island is comprised of lacustrine and eolian materials.
Plate B5 Bedrock ridge south of Pyramid Creek, KP/KL 372.8 (July 2005). The project Plate B6 View north showing bedrock ridge south of Pyramid Creek, KP/KL 373.0 (July passes between Highway 16 and the CN Railway upslope. 2005). The CN Railway is part -way upslope, while the project is located between
Page B3 the toe of the slope and Highway 16.
Plate B7 Trans Mountain alignment, KP/KL 375.5, looking north (July 2005). The existing Plate B8 View south, KP/KL 376.2, showing Trans Mountain alignment ascending onto the pipeline follows an ascending sidehill across a steep glaciofluvial terrace scarp. glaciofluvial terrace upon which Jasper townsite is located.
Plate B9 Between KL 396.5 and KL 399.5, the proposed route follows the CNA Railway Plate B10 The CNA Railway grade is followed by the proposed route between KL 402.0 and grade along the toe of the Miette River valley wall (July 2005). Thick-bedded KL 404.3, exposing Miette Group bedrock (July 2005).
Page B4 sandstones of the Miette Group are exposed.
Plate B11 In places, the CNA Railway grade includes high fills, KL 403.3 (July 2005). Plate B12 View northeast towards Yellowhead Pass, KP 408.5, showing Highway 16 with Trans Mountain alignment on east side of highway (July 2005).
Plate B13 Landslide area, believed to be active, located north of the Project just west of Plate B14 Between KL 416.7 and 426.3 the proposed route parallels the CN Railway along Yellowhead Pass, KP/KL 406.5 (July 2005). the north side. Cuts in till (moraine) are developed locally, KL 422.0 (July 2005). Page B5
Plate B15 In places where the CN Railway is paralleled, sand-gravel glaciofluvial outwash Plate B16 View northwest from the south end of Moose Lake, KP/KL 436.0 (July 2005). deposits within the till are exposed, KL 422.1 (July 2005).
Plate B17 Along the northeast side of Moose Lake, the existing Trans Mountain pipeline is Plate B18 Runout area of recent debris flow crossing Trans Mountain alignment at typically located upslope from Highway 16 (July 2005). KP/KL 466.6 (July 2005). Page B6