Research and Scholarly Activity Fund Award Final Report

NAME: Mark Smith
DEPARTMENT: Geography and Geology
FACULTY: SOCIAL SCIENCES

The purpose of my research project is to exam the coastal geology of Vancouver Island between
the towns of Tofino and Ucluelet. The main focus are the landforms found in and around the
beaches and the processes that affect them.
Recent financial support from Langara College was intended to help access to coastal settings by
providing the means to purchase a bottom sampling dredge and material for groundwater
observation wells. Preliminary results from the use of this equipment reveal diverse sediment
bottom in and around the Tofino Harbour area tidal flats and a dynamic groundwater system
beneath the beaches on the exposed outer coast.
Information is limited as to the nature and importance of bottom samples in these tidal flats.
Access to sampling sites was significantly curtailed over the past year because of road closures
related to construction in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. However, based on a review of the
literature and the limited number of samples that were collected, there is a need for more sample
collection and analysis plus a number of processes that require more study. For example, the
timing and strength of tidal currents through tidal cycles and their impact on sediment
distribution need to be determined.
As for the outer coast beaches, early examination of sand moisture content, the position of the
water table at various locations and times within the beach and variations of beach surface colour
suggest a possible method to measure surface moisture content based on the analysis of colour
spectrum in digital photographs. In this way it may be possible to quickly and easily determine
the relative importance of groundwater on the mobility of sand and its impact on the formation
and sustainability of coastal sand dunes. To confirm the relationship between beach sediment
texture, colour and moisture content, and the impact of tides, waves, and, most importantly,
weather at the beach surface a more thorough repeat of early observations is necessary.
In moving forward this project will continue with a regional survey of coastal processes and
features in the Tofino – Ucluelet area, with more detailed studies of specific areas and processes to
address particular questions. In addition, the plan is to expand the study area to include the

beaches of Spanish Banks and Kitsilano in the City of Vancouver. The same concerns about the
nature of beach processes and their long term sustainability apply equally to these urban
locations. The close proximity of these sites will also make for much easier access and the
opportunity to include Langara students through class field trips.
In conclusion, the study of beach processes is moving forward, albeit not as far and as fast as
hoped. However, progress is being made and a new study area is being developed. The funding
provided by Langara College has been instrumental in moving forward and will continue to be so.
For this I express my thanks. Please contact me if you have any questions or comments.
Respectfully submitted,

Mark Smith, PhD
Instructor
Department of Geography and Geology
Langara College
Vancouver, BC