Mountain Massif Research Articles

Divergent patterns of landslide activity and triggering factors at a local scale of a single mountain massif (Island Beskid Mts., Western Carpathians, Poland)

Landslide protection and mitigation are critical issues in many regions worldwide, where lives and livelihoods depend on correctly determining landslide hazards. However, local differences in the response of landslide slopes to meteorological or seismic triggering factors can decrease the performance of landslide models and forecasts. Thus, recognising and understanding spatial patterns of landslide activity at a local scale should be one of the priorities of landslide research. In this study, we analyse the activity and triggering factors of two landslides in one mountain massif, <2 km apart, in the Western Carpathians, Poland. We analysed 61-year-long (1959–2019) records of the activity of study landslides, i.e. dendrochronological reconstruction based on ring eccentricity and compression wood dated in 65 specimens of European silver fir (Abies alba). We compared the dendrochronological proxy of landslide activity at two study slopes with precipitation and earthquakes in the study area. Based on statistical correlations with 560 precipitation indicators, we found that the similarities between the two study landslides include only the direct triggers in June–July and March. The Wiśnia landslide, unlike Hajdowska, can also be triggered by precipitation in October. However, the main difference between the study landslides lies in the preparatory precipitation. Hajdowska shows significant dependence from precipitation of the previous December and current February, while at the Wiśnia study site, the preparatory precipitation is less important and covers the previous October–November and current January. Our results show that although study landslides could be reactivated at one time by similar direct triggers of spring or summer, such simultaneous reactivation would require preconditions of antecedent precipitation of the previous winter half-year (October–March) different for each landslide. Suppose, the requirements of antecedent precipitation are fulfilled only for one of the landslides during the winter half-year. In that case, the other will remain inactive despite the later occurrence of a shared direct trigger in spring or summer. The example of Hajdowska and Wiśnia shows that significant differences in landslide activity, hazard and triggering factors can exist even at the local scale. We argue that omitting even such subtle, unevident differences in the conditions of landslide activity leads to errors in landslide modelling and forecasting. For example, linking Hajdowska and Wiśnia landslides with one precipitation threshold or model of slope instability based on their adjacent location would not be effective in predicting reactivations. The precision of landslide modelling and forecasting depends on the accuracy of preceding analyses of landslide activity and triggering factors. We argue that in the case of the two adjacent landslides studied the divergent patterns of their activity and triggers would not be revealed without analysing long-term (> 60 years long) data sets.

Two new species in Hieracium sect. Alpestria (Asteraceae) from Mt. Babia Góra, Western Carpathians, Poland

Two apomictic, tetraploid (x=9) species in Hieracium sect. Alpestria are described from Mt. Babia Góra, the northernmost mountain massif in the whole Carpathian chain with an alpine belt. Hieracium babiogorense combines the morphological features of H. prenanthoides s.lat. and H. bifidum s.lat., and H. besseri is of presumably hybrid origin between H. prenanthoides s.lat. and H. caesium s.lat. Both new species are illustrated with photos of the holotypes and live plants in the type localities.

Population structure, genetic diversity and evolutionary history of the narrow endemic squirrel Sciurus meridionalis

Endemic species and their genetic diversity are critical components of global biodiversity, yet they usually face a higher risk of decline and extinction than species with broader distributions. Loss of genetic diversity within geographically restricted and fragmented ranges plays a significant role in driving endemic species to extinction, threatening their ability to adapt to environmental challenges. Hence, considering genetic diversity and its spatial distribution within populations is mandatory in planning conservation actions for narrow endemic species. Here, we investigated the population genetic diversity, structure and evolutionary history of the Calabrian black squirrel Sciurus meridionalis, a species endemic to the Calabrian region in the south of the Italian peninsula. A fine-scale sampling procedure was carried out throughout the whole species range, and genetic variation was assessed from multiple mitochondrial and nuclear markers. Phylogeographic and population structure analyses showed three evolutionary significant units within the current species range, each characterised by extremely low levels of genetic diversity. Bayesian phylogeographic analyses suggested that Calabrian black squirrel populations experienced a range fragmentation during the Last Glacial Maximum (∼20 ka), which geographically mirrors the three main mountain massifs within the species range. Historical demographic reconstructions revealed a recent and still ongoing demographic expansion for Calabrian black squirrel populations, likely promoted by a concurrent expansion of the Calabrian black pine in this area. Overall, our findings clarify the designation of the evolutionary significant units for a narrow endemic squirrel and underscore the importance of analysing range-wide population genetic data and considering species interactions when defining management strategies for narrow endemic species’ conservation.

Preliminary phytochemical screening, &lt;i&gt;in vitro&lt;/i&gt; antioxidant activity and insecticidal activity of methanolic leaves extract of &lt;i&gt;Cedrus atlantica&lt;/i&gt; from Belezma, Algeria

This work was conceived in the context of valorisation of the endemic forest species Cedrus atlantica (Pinaceae family), widespread in the mountainous massif of eastern Algeria. This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and insecticidal activity of the methanolic extract of the aerial part (leaves) of C. atlantica (CAMeOH). The extraction made it possible to obtain a yield of approximately 7.49% from 350 g of dry powdered plant material. The results of the phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids and flavonoids as major components. In vitro antioxidant evaluation was carried out using two different methods. The reducing power assay test result revealed an optical density (DO) value of 1.7±0.02 at a dose of 600 µg/mL of CAMeOH. Concerning the iron chelation activity, the recorded IC50 value was 62.12 μg/mL and R²=0.87. The insecticidal activity against the stored-food insect Tribolium confusum was evaluated using the contact treatment mode and showed a significant dose-dependent effect (P≤0.05) with a mortality rate of 98.32 ± 0.50 % at a dose of 50 mg/mL (after 96 hours of contact). The results of this study confirmed the potential antioxidant and insecticidal activity of the methanolic extract from the leaves of C. atlantica.

Effect of age, gender and formal education on endogenous knowledge of woody plants in communities bordering forest patches of the Lubero Mountain Massif (DR Congo)

Effect of age, gender and formal education on endogenous knowledge of woody plants in communities bordering forest patches of the Lubero Mountain Massif (DR Congo)

Studying and mapping natural complexes of the piedmont plain of the Dokuchaev ridge (Kunashir island, Great Kuril ridge)

The article presents the findings of geosystems studies of the piedmont accumulative plain located between the mountain massifs of Dokuchaev ridge and Tyatya volcano on the Kunashir island. The plain is a unique natural object, as denudation prevails in the Kuril Islands and accumulative forms are not widespread here. Field surveys of vegetation, soils and topography were carried out according to standard methods. Ultrahigh spatial resolution satellite image, topographic maps and scientific literature were also used as materials. As a result, thematic maps were compiled and features of spatial distribution of geosystems were identified.

The Electric State of the Surface Atmosphere in the Mountain–Steppe Landscapes of Southern Siberia According to the Measurement Data in the Khakass–Tyva Expedition in 2022

Currently, many researchers are interested in investigating the electric field in the fair-weather electric environment, along with its diurnal and seasonal variations across all regions of the world. However, a similar study in the southern part of Siberia has not yet been carried out. In this regard, this study aims to estimate the mean values of the electric field and their variations in the mountain and steppe landscapes using the measurement data from the Khakass–Tyva expedition in 2022. The maximum values of positive ion density were noted at the site in the Iyussko-Shirinsky steppe between Belyo and Tus salt lakes in the Khakass-Minusinsk Basin. The maximum values of negative ion density were observed at the site in the Shol tract in the center part of the Tyva depression. The potential gradient tends to increase with altitude and reaches a maximum in the highlands. The maximum values of the potential gradient were noted in the highlands plateau near the Mongun-Taiga Mountain Massif and Khindiktig-Khol Lake. The diurnal cycles of potential gradient at different observation sites were divided into two groups: (1) a diurnal cycle in the form of a double wave; and (2) a daily cycle with a more complex course due to the strong influence of local factors.

Анотований список сфагнових мохів на території гірського масиву Ґорґани

The article provides a summary of current knowledge related to the distribution, anatomical-morphological, and ecological characteristics of sphagnum mosses on the mountain massif of Gorgany. The analysis is based on the original field research, and also literature and herbarium data. It has been established that genus Sphagnum L. within the Ukrainian Carpathians is represented by 30 species, with 23 species occurring in the Gorgany mountain massif. Information about the species diversity of this moss group is mentioned in the works of scientists such as Zerov D. K., Partika L. Ya. (1975), Nyporko S. O. (2006); Savitska A. G. (2012), Felbaba-Klushyna L. M. (2015), Rabyk I. V., Danilyk I. M. (2022), Prytula S. V., Mamchur Z. I., Drach Yu. A. (2020; 2022), in the herbarium collections of the Department of Ecology at Ivan Franko National University, the State Museum of Natural History of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (LWS), the M. G. Kholodny Institute of Botany (KW), as well as electronic databases like the National Biodiversity Information Network and the Center for Biodiversity Data of Ukraine. According to the research, an annotated list of 23 species of sphagnum mosses in the Gorgany territory was identified and compiled. The distribution of these species in various sections of the massif was analyzed, including Krayovi Nyzhkohirni, Zovnishni (Skybovi), and Pryvododilni (Vnutrishni) Gorgany. The highest number of species was recorded in the Pryvododilni Gorgany area. The Krayovi Nyzhkohirni Gorgany is still not researched, and also there is no any data about the distribution of sphagnum mosses. A taxonomic analysis was conducted, including classification into 5 subgenera, of which four were identified within the study area. The subgenera Acutifolia (Russow) A.J.Shaw (10) and Cuspidata Lindb (8) are represented by the highest number of species. No species from the Rigida (Lindb.) A.Eddy subgenus were found.

Comparative studies on radon seasonal variations in various undeground environments: Cases of abandoned Beshtaugorskiy uranium mine and Kungur Ice Cave

It is well known that one of the most important risk factors in underground environment is the harmful effects of radon. The reasons for strong seasonal fluctuations in radon content in underground environments remain not fully understood. The purpose of this article is to improve existing ideas about this phenomenon. The article presents the results of a study of radon transport in two different underground spaces – the Beshtaugorskiy uranium mine (North Caucasus) and the Kungur Ice Cave (Middle Ural). We have used the direct measurements of the equilibrium equivalent concentration (EEC) of radon progeny in air, as well as the air flow velocity. A very wide range and strong seasonal variations in the radon levels have been recorded in both cases. The EEC has a range of 11–6653 by Bq m−3 and 10–89,020 Bq m−3 in the Kungur cave and the Beshtaugorskiy mine, respectively. It has been established that seasonal fluctuations in radon levels both in the mine and in the cave are caused by the same process – convective air circulation in the underground space due to the temperature difference between the mountain massif and the atmosphere (so called chimney effect). Overall, these results indicate that due to convective air circulation, underground spaces are periodically intensively ventilated with atmospheric air, and then, on the contrary, they are filled with radon-enriched air that seeps into caves or adits from rocks and ores. In both cases, the EEC of radon progeny exceeds the permissible level for the population and workers. The results of this study highlight the need for the development of measures to limit the presence of people in the surveyed underground spaces.

Method of Redevelopment of Underground Mining Facilities

Mining is a set of industrial branches engaged in exploration, extraction, primary processing and obtaining the initial semi-finished product of elements related to minerals. Deposits are ore, non-metallic and alluvial. These deposits are mined by open pit and closed pit methods. After the end of underground operations, empty mine fields remain, which on the surface are labeled as exclusion zones. The problem of cave-in zones, under which the waste mine fields of the mining industry are located, has been particularly acute for decades. These mines are located not only under the industrial zones of populated areas, but also under residential and public areas and cause irreversible transformation of the natural environment, which leads to catastrophic consequences. Transformation of underground space is the main task of redevelopment of industrial areas of this kind. It is possible to build underground structures for other purposes in worked-out mines. Due to the fact that these structures will be maintained and operated, the change in the secondary stress fields in the mountain massif will not have such catastrophic consequences as in the case of alienation-collapse zones. Besides, the reuse of worked-out workings is economically more favorable due to the fact that sinking will be minimal. In this paper only underground mining complexes and the possibility of their reuse will be considered.

Geodynamic processes in the territory of the Svidovets mountain massif of the Ukrainian Carpathians (in the zone of the planned creation of a tourist and recreation complex)

The purpose of the research is a comprehensive analysis of various geodynamic natural processes on the territory of the Svydovets mountain massif of the Ukrainian Carpathians - the zone of the planned creation of a tourist and recreational complex for the development of a program for their further detailed study in the area of the planned activity (PА). The methodology includes a comprehensive analysis of the manifestation and course of dangerous geodynamic processes based on source information and individual studies of the authors. The Svydovets massif is located within the Central Synclinal Zone of the Carpathians, which is composed of Eocene and Oligocene chalk flysch. The highest part of the ridge with the southwestern and southern slopes and peaks Chorna Kleva (1720 m), Ruska (1678 m), Bratkivska (1788 m), Gropa (1759 m) is confined to the territory of the PA. The massif is characterized by a complex division of thrust structural slices of the Porkuletsky, Duklyansky and Chornohirsky nappes (covers). There are very steep north-eastern and gentle south-western slopes. The main forms of relief that characterize relict glacial relief are cirques, glacial valleys, rocky cirque ridges, steep rocky walls of cirques, moraine deposits, etc. On the southern and northern macroslopes of the Bratkivska Range, stone placers have been preserved from the Ice Age. Slope placers on the south-western macroslopes (areas of the Gropa, Ruska and Chorna Kleva mountains) are potentially dangerous for the formation of landslides and screes. Activities on the middle and lower slopes require special attention, where there is a possible negative impact during the construction of roads, felling and transportation of forest. Earthquakes, mudslides, landslides, debris flows, landslides, and avalanches are among the most dangerous processes on the territory of the PA. Earthquakes are of minor magnitude. Landslides and ossips are common on the northern and eastern slopes of the Svydovets massif, including on the watersheds and southwestern slopes of the Bratkivsky ridge. They are confined to slopes of considerable steepness (more than 35°) and occupy a small area. Small landslides with a volume of several tens of cubic meters of rock predominate, and rockfalls with fragments of 1-1.5 m in size. Landslide processes are widespread in the Ukrainian Carpathians, in particular within the PA in the Krosno tectonic subzone, which covers the latitudinal segment of the upper basin of the Chorna Tysza and the Yasinya syncline. Manifestations of avalanche activity on the Svydovets massif occupy one of the first places in the Ukrainian Carpathians along with the Chornohora and Borzhava ridges. The length of avalanches can be more than 1.5 km, and the volumes of avalanches - more than 400,000 m³. The Bratkivsky ridge is a non-avalanche active area, while the northern slope of the Svydovets massif and the Chorna Tysza valley are avalanche- dangerous. Considering that the PA territory covers mainly the southern slope of the Bratkivsky ridge, the avalanche danger is insignificant. Scientific novelty. The manifestation and activity of various dangerous geodynamic processes within the territory of the Svydovets massif - a zone of possible anthropogenic impact on the environment as a result of PA for the development of the ski resort - are analyzed in detail. Practical significance. The results of the research will help to the future developer of the ski tourist and recreational complex to develop a program for further detailed study of dangerous natural phenomena at the planned construction site, and can be partially used in the implementation of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report for PA. They also inform the public about the possible impact of PA on the environment.

Microseismicity in the Persian Gulf and in the Zagros Mountain Massif according to OBS Observations

Microseismicity in the Persian Gulf and in the Zagros Mountain Massif according to OBS Observations

Landscape planning as a tool for preserving the landscape values of the Dinara Nature Park

Abstract Dinara Mountain massif is recognized as an area of exceptional value, which led to its recent protection as a nature park, the second largest one in Croatia. The protected area includes the territory of two counties with four cities and nine municipalities, five of which are included with over 50% of the territory. The paper explains how landscape planning methods establish potential spatial conflicts and propose a compromise between landscape conservation and spatial development. The basic method was the identification and analysis of the landscape value models in 3 categories: natural, visual-experiential, and cultural-historical values. The creation of the models is preceded by a detailed analysis of all environmental components and the collection and creation of spatial data with the help of GIS tools. By overlapping the basic models, a cumulative model of the overall landscape values of the space is produced, which clearly shows which parts of the landscape have a higher value, regarding the protection requirements. The final value model is overlapped with the planned interventions and a clear overview of the vulnerability and possible conflict zones in the area is obtained. The paper describes the impact of individual interventions on the landscape qualities that need to be preserved and suggests guidelines for spatial plan corrections for the purpose of minimal impact on existing values, thus helping to prevent unwanted changes.

Microseismicity of the Persian Gulf and the Zagros Mountain Massif According to Bottom Seismological Observations

Bottom seismological observations in the Persian Gulf over a short period made it possible to detect weak earthquakes with magnitudes (ML = –0.2–2.9), whose sources are located in the mantle under its water area and under the Zagros mountain range. On the section built across the coastline of the Persian Gulf, under the Zagros Mountains, the projections of the sources of the detected earthquakes form seismic focal layers, steeply dipping into the mantle to the northeast to depths of 120–180 km. The spatial distribution of strong and medium earthquakes, obtained from the updated earthquake catalog of the US Geological Survey and the ISC International Seismological Catalog, does not contradict the distribution of sources of micro- and weak earthquakes, but complements it, forming a separate seismic focal layer. According to the data obtained as a result of bottom seismological observations, the entire thickness of the earth’s crust of the region and the upper mantle, and not only the upper layers of the crust, as presented in a number of publications, are seismically active. It is possible that collision processes and accompanying phenomena (mantle seismicity and destruction of the granitic layer of the earth’s crust) are associated with the presumed presence and rotation of the earth’s surface with the center of rotation in the area of about. Cyprus.

Regional flood occurrence in the culmination zone of medium-high mountain ranges by tree-ring based reconstruction: Frequency, triggers, dynamics

Floods are among the most dangerous geohazards in Central Europe. Their occurrence is often the result of the cumulative contribution of sub-catchments in the culmination zone of a mountain range, which subsequently has a devastating effect in the foreland. However, data on discharges from gauging stations are mostly missing from these sites (high-gradient streams), which are crucial to understanding the origin of floods in low-lying populated areas where they can cause significant damage. Therefore, this study focuses on an extensive reconstruction of flood events in 13 sub-catchments in the culmination zone of the Orlicke hory Mts. Flood events were reconstructed using dendrogeomorphic approaches, currently the most accurate absolute dating method. The analysis revealed 111 floods in all sub-catchments during the 34 to 84 year period by dating 844 growth disturbances in a tree-ring series of 632 trees (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) damaged during the floods. Regional reconstruction across the mountain range revealed events of regional and local significance, with no direct link between event magnitude and areal extent. This is consistent with the two dominant rainfall patterns identified that likely triggered the floods (short-term extreme rainfall and medium-term above-average rainfall). In particular, however, the study revealed several patterns of spatial transformation of flood events from source sub-catchments to their form captured at gauging stations in the foreland. The combination of various lines of evidence (geomorphic mapping, growth disturbance patterns, spatial pattern of flooding) suggests a limited erosional effect of most of the reconstructed events. The findings thus shed new light on the overall dynamics of floods in the mountain massif and their impact on flood discharges in the foreland.

Selection and justification of drilling and blasting parameters using genetic algorithms

Purpose. Using experimental and theoretical studies to justify the rational location of charges of various types and their technological parameters in the fan, taking into account the physical and mechanical properties and structural features of the rocks in the mountain massif. Methodology. In the experiments, an improved method of geostructural analysis of rocks was used to obtain detailed data on their properties, the block structure of the massif, and the type and direction of development of crack systems. Identification of crack systems, their density, intensity, and direction of development of crack systems is carried out on petrographic sections using microscopic analysis, these are used to calculate the average indicator of the cracking coefficient, while the funneling method – the anisotropy coefficient. The justification of the rational location and the number of charges in each fan was performed using the methods of genetic algorithms and the developed software product. Findings. The coefficient of cracking and anisotropy of physical and mechanical properties of uranium ores was calculated, which was 78 cr/sm2 and 1.4, respectively. According to the developed mathematical models and the software product, the optimization problem was solved using genetic algorithms, which determined the main priorities: the location of the charge in the fan according to the structure of the massif and the rational diameter of the well, which helps to limit the number of oversized blocks of reflected ore. Originality. The regularities are established of the change in the anisotropy coefficient from the cracking coefficient, the nature of the distribution and the number of microcracks (cr/sm2) in the quartz grains, which is present in uranium ore according to a linear law, and the output (in %) of oversized blocks during the destruction of uranium ore from the cracking coefficient – according to the polynomial law. For the first time, the optimal location and the number of charges in each fan, the diameter of the wells, taking into account the type of rock, its strength and fissure, and the geometric parameters of the ore deposit, were determined based on the constructed mathematical models and the developed software product. Practical value. The indicated results of the experimental and theoretical studies will form the basis for the development and substantiation of rational parameters of resource-saving and seismically safe methods for breaking strong rocks of complex structure during the extraction of uranium and iron ores by the energy of the explosion in mines.

Monitoring of the stress-strain state during preparatory workings

Maintaining and increasing the volume of underground coal mining is possible only if there is a highly efficient technology for conducting and maintaining preparatory workings. The purpose of the research was to assess the parameters of stability control of the contours of the mine workings, anchored with anchorage, to create a technology for intensive and safe excavation of mine workings based on the identified patterns of behavior of adjacent rock massifs. The idea of the approach is to use a man-made stress-strain state to develop an effective technology for fixing a contour rock mass. The mechanism of deformation, displacement, and collapse of rocks in a structurally disturbed inhomogeneous mountain range is investigated to assess the state of the rock mass around the mine workings. The technology of fastening contiguous soil rocks has been developed taking into account the state of the mountain massif around the workings and the parameters of the operation of the anchor supports in mines for fixing rods in workings in order to ensure the safety of mining operations in the mines of the Karaganda coal basin have been determined.

Зоолог Володимир Караваєв та Карадазька наукова станція в Криму (до 160­річчя з дня народження)

Some unknown pages in the life of Volodymyr Karavaiev the world-famous Ukrainian zoologist, myrmecologist, traveler, as well as a large landowner of the former Kyiv Governorate are considered. Particular attention is paid to his stay and research activities in the Crimea, near the Karadag mountain massif, at the Karadag scientific station. The station was founded in 1914 at the own cost of Terentiy Viazemsky, doctor of medicine, a privatdozent of the Moscow University, in order to develop science free from state supervision. In 1917, at the beginning of the revolutionary destruction, Volodymyr Karavaiev was in Crimea, and the went to the Karadag trying to find a safe place for scientific activity. He was fascinated by the untouched nature of this place and, with the help of the geologist Oleksandr Sludskyi, who was in charge of the station, decided to build his own house and set up an entomological laboratory at the station. However, subsequent political events made it impossible to implement the scientist’s ideas. The significance of the station in the scientist’s life is considered in the context of the complicated fate of the manuscript on ants of the Ponerinae subfamily the first one that the scientist almost managed to process after returning from a trip to the Dutch Indies in 1913 (the events of 1917 prevented it). The history of the manuscript is filled with losses, experiences, and hardships, but scientific activity in Kyiv and at the station continued and covers the period from 1913 to 1923. The acquaintance with academician Volodymyr Vernadsky is also mentioned. Also considered the trip of the scientist in the ‘academic’ carriage to Kharkiv, and from there to Crimea in November 1919 (together with Volodymyr Vernadsky, who continued traveling to Rostov.) It is emphasised that thanks to the shelter at the station, the scientist was able to increase his scientific knowledge; the tropical collections of ants brought to the station and therefore preserved, gave him the opportunity to successfully continue studying the ants of the world. Another significant reason for developing scientific studies was the station’s surroundings, which revealed the biodiversity of the myrmecofauna of Karadag. It is proposed to create a memorial library and a memorial collection of ants of the scientist as a national heritage.

Synchronous formation of the ‘forearc’ Bay of Islands ophiolite and its basal high-temperature metamorphic sole constrained by U–Pb zircon ages

The welded metamorphic sole at the base of the Bay of Islands Ophiolite Complex (BOIC) in the Northern Appalachians of Newfoundland shows a typical inverted pressure-temperature (P-T) metamorphic gradient from HT-MP granulite to LT-LP greenschist facies. It incorporates mafic volcanic/plutonic protoliths mixed with pelagic, hemi-pelagic and coarser epiclastic sedimentary protoliths. New LA-ICP-MS U–Pb concordia ages, trace elements, and Ti-in-zircon geothermometry for ∼250 zircon analyses from three metabasites of the upper HT sole amphibolites with N-MORB-like protoliths are reported. Two samples collected within meters of the ophiolite peridotite-sole contact of the Blow Me Down Mountain and North Arm Mountain massifs yielded the oldest comparable concordia ages of 487.7±2.6 Ma and 489.1±3.1 Ma, respectively, that are both within error of the igneous age of 488.3±1.5 Ma of the directly overlying BOIC ophiolite, which formed at a supra-subduction zone (SSZ) forearc spreading center. A third slightly younger age of 484.2±2.4 Ma was obtained for an upper HT amphibolite sample with similar phase assemblages but collected ∼30 m below the peridotite contact of the Table Mountain massif. Zircon crystals analyzed have similar size and morphologies, subparallel rare earth element (REE) variation patterns, and steep heavy REE-enrichments ((Lu/Gd)cn >20), significant positive Ce anomalies (dominantly >5) and slight positive to dominantly negative Eu anomalies (1.2 – 0.4). Zircon shows Th/U mean values of 0.37 – 0.48 with little to no rim to core variation. Minimum Ti-in-zircon mean crystallization temperatures range from ∼764 – 787 °C. These neocrystallized zircon crystals appear to be derived from thin leucosomes within the three amphibolites. Two other samples also from the upper HT sole show evidence of inherited detrital zircon with core dates spanning the Cambrian Notre Dame Arc through older Laurentian-like basement and rift age ranges.Subcretion of the sole took place below a hot forearc asthenospheric wedge, that is, a consequence of the newly-formed BOIC forearc spreading center extending from the back arc to a triple junction along the westward- (or paleo-northward) verging trench of the Notre Dame arc. The early HT sole formation age at ca. 489–488 Ma is long prior to initiation of obduction at ca. 470 Ma and long after initiation of subduction beneath the paleo-northward verging Notre Dame peri-Laurentian arc at ca. 514 Ma. This indicates Newfoundland sole ages of the BOIC and St. Anthony Complex are correlated with the age of SSZ spreading, but not necessarily subduction initiation because previously existing and self-sustaining subduction was ongoing. Sole ages are then not correlated with the younger age of obduction-related orogenic events (e.g., proposed Taconic I and II) in the Newfoundland Appalachians.

Multi-sensor and multi-temporal approach in monitoring of deformation zone with permanent monitoring solution and management of environmental changes: A case study of Solotvyno salt mine, Ukraine

Salt deposits were a rich source of mineral resources in the past, and some are still mined today. However, salt mines, especially abandoned ones, pose a threat to populated areas, infrastructure and the natural environment. Solotvyno (Ukraine) is one of the most significantly affected areas, with a deformation zone where significant year-on-year subsidences occur. Mining activities have caused a disturbance of the balance in the mountain massif, and as a consequence, the mountains are being reshaped, and the land cover is deformed. Deformation zone of the historical salt mine Solotvyno (Ukraine), Tyachiv district of Zakarpattia region is situated on the right bank of the Tisza river in the border area with Romania in Central Europe. This paper deals with the multi-sensor monitoring of the active deformation zone over the Solotvyno salt mine using satellite radar data (Sentinel-1), optical satellite imagery (Pleiades, SPOT) and in-situ UAV photogrammetry. Since the area represents a significant geohazard from a hydrogeological (Tisza River) and civil security standpoints (infrastructure of the inhabited regions), the design of a high-precision monitoring system to monitor and evaluate current environmental changes is proposed. Multi-temporal InSAR analysis exposed steeper subsidence tendencies of &amp;gt;−2 cm in the central part of the monitored area. Optical satellite and UAV images confirmed the increase in water surface in sinkhole areas up to 28,500 m2 and proved the emergence of new sinkholes in the central part of the Solotvyno mine. The aim of this study is to describe the post-collapse deformation processes by Pleiades and SPOT multi-spectral sensors and Sentinel-1 satellite SAR sensors since the 2010 collapse in order to describe the trends of deformation due to undermining and propose a high-precision permanent monitoring system based on satellite radar interferometry (InSAR).