Terrain analysis includes the examination of aerial photographs, satellite imagery, and lidar (Light Detection and Ranging), in conjunction with field observations, published maps, and other datasets to delineate terrain into polygons with uniform geotechnical characteristics. BGC uses terrain analysis to develop landslide inventories, characterize fluvial and other geomorphic processes, support project siting and routing studies, and identify targets for subsurface geotechnical investigation.

Bedrock structure has an overriding influence on many geotechnical problems, including rippability, hydraulic conductivity, bearing capacity, and the stability of natural and man-made slopes. We combine our knowledge of bedrock geology and tectonics with field mapping, geotechnical drilling, and remote sensing techniques including lidar and photogrammetry to develop accurate structural geology models for our project sites.

BGC’s engineering geology team is skilled at employing a range of tools to geological problems, including air photo and remote-sensing data interpretation, surface mapping, geophysical surveys, subsurface investigations, instrumentation, and laboratory testing. Our geotechnical site investigation programs begin with the development of a conceptual engineering geology model that is refined throughout the project development cycle.

Earthquakes and earthquake-triggered geohazards – liquefaction, landslides, and surface faulting – are important design considerations for projects in high-seismicity terrain or high-consequence settings. BGC routinely performs deterministic and probabilistic, site-specific seismic hazard assessments, including the development of seismic source models and the selection and scaling of representative time-history records. BGC also supports clients with the mapping of earthquake-triggered geohazards across spatially-extensive projects like pipelines and mines. BGC’s seismic hazard experts have published state-of-the-art research and case studies on active faulting, paleoseismology, the mapping of liquefaction and landslide potential, and automated earthquake monitoring systems.