Landslide susceptibility and modelling in the Mount Meager massif

The Mount Meager (Q̓welq̓welústen) Volcanic Complex is an elevated and glaciated volcanic system where many landslides larger than 100,000 m3 have occurred. Landslide susceptibility in the MMVC was studied at a massif scale using statistical methods and slope scale using physically based modelling. Results indicate that the most susceptible units are the Devastator and Plinth volcanic assemblages, with highest susceptibility units being volcanic. Limit equilibrium modeling in the Devastation Creek Valley indicates that structures likely play a major role in landslide behaviour with future failures possible in the southeast and center of the study area dominantly. Finite element models at Mosaic Creek illustrate that current observed slope morphology can be generated by considering effects such as tectonic stresses and hydrologic factors. Results highlight the importance of different processes that affect the likelihood of landslide initiation and the deformation behaviour, such as lithology, joint properties, deglaciation, tectonic stresses, and hydrology.