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Corney Brook Slope Stabilization

Keeping the Cabot Trail safe

  • 200

    Foot Cliff

  • Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia

    Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia

Sloping towards safety--repairing a tension crack on the edge of Cabot Trail

The cliffs along sections of the Cabot Trail go through constant degradation from pounding surf at the base, as well as freeze/thaw and wetting/drying processes. As the roads through the trail are cut into these cliffs, significant slope movements can affect the roadways.

Parks Canada identified a tension crack on the edge of the Cabot Trail in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Indications of a slope failure were present at the site, including significant loss of material from the cliff, a large pile of rubble accumulated at the base and fresh rock faces exposed on the 200 foot cliff. An initial assessment was carried out to determine what temporary measures should be put in place to make the area safe for the public.

Following this assessment, a detailed site investigation was carried out, which involved a topographic survey, geologic mapping, boreholes and installing slope inclinometers to monitor movements. This data was used to complete a detailed design and prepare the specifications for the retaining structure, which uses a system of soldier piles, concrete lagging, and tie backs. Our team was on-site to provide inspection services during the construction of the structure.

At a Glance

Offices
Meet Our Team

Maureen Matthew, Engineering Geologist

Partnering with people and disciplines throughout Stantec is the best part of my job. We are as good as the team we work with.

Gabriele Mellies, Senior Associate, Senior Geotechnical Engineer

I enjoy problem solving and finding solutions for rock engineering challenges that help our clients and make our communities safer.
Gabriele Mellies Senior Associate, Senior Geotechnical Engineer Read More

Maureen Matthew

Engineering Geologist

Gabriele Mellies

Senior Associate, Senior Geotechnical Engineer

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