The meeting originally scheduled for February 5 has been postponed to April 9 due to weather

Time: 17:30

Topic: Application of USACE LifeSim to the Feijão Dam B-1 Tailings Storage Facility Failure of Jan 25, 2019

Speaker: William M. Johnstone, Ph.D., P.Eng., Principal Consultant/Founding Partner Spatial Vision Group, Inc. / Spatial Vision Consulting Ltd.

Co-Author: Jesse Morrill-Winter, National Technical Specialist - Economics and Risk Analysis, Flood Risk Management Planning Center of Expertise, US Army Corps of Engineers

Zoom: Click Here

Abstract: On January 25, 2019, the Feijão Dam B-1 Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) at Minas Córrego do Feijão mine in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil failed catastrophically. A devastating downstream mudflow inflicted extreme to complete damage to many structures, vehicles, and transportation infrastructure, and caused a historic 270 fatalities. This event provided a unique opportunity to demonstrate how the US Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) LifeSim simulator can be used to analyse historic TSF failure events and to develop consequences estimates for proposed, active, inactive and decommissioned TSFs.

In the Summer of 2022, the Risk Management Center (RMC) of USACE initiated a case study to use LifeSim to model the event, and to identify strengths, weaknesses and possible improvements to the current approach. The results confirmed that the simulator can indeed be used to estimate loss consequences and to inform risk analysis/emergency planning.

This talk will present selected content from a paper given last November at the Tailings & Mine Waste 2024 Conference in Denver, CO. Since this is a VGUG talk, we will also discuss: 1) the important role of geospatial and cloud technologies, and 2) how geospatial system simulators were used to model the breach outflow, downstream runout, and direct impacts on the workers and communities located in the impact zone.

Bio: Dr. Johnstone is a Principal Consultant and founding partner of Spatial Vision Group. He holds a Ph.D in Civil Engineering from the University of British Columbia, and Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Systems Design Engineering from the University of Waterloo.

His firm designs, develops and delivers GIS/CAD/BIM and system models (“digital twins”) that support the construction, operations and maintenance of critical infrastructure including dams, roads, pipelines, structures, communications, etc. His last talk to VGUG in Sept 2023 presented his work on BC Hydro’s Dam Safety Information System (DSIS), which stores and shares 3D digital twin models of large dams (soon to include the recently completed Site C dam).

Since 2000, Bill has worked on more than thirty dam failure studies for sites in North America, South America, and Europe (water dams and TSFs). He currently provides independent reviews of consequences studies for the US Army Corps of Engineers Risk Management Center.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/wmjohnstone/

https://www.spatialvisiongroup.com/svg-team-wmj.html

Time: 17:30

Topic: Introducing GeoConnect

Speaker: Vanessa Pocock, President GeoConnect / GIS Supervisor, Resort Municipality of Whistler

Eventbrite Link: Click Here

Zoom Link: Click Here

Abstract:Join us for an introduction to GeoConnect, formerly known as URISA BC, as we present our vision for building a dynamic and supportive community for geospatial professionals across British Columbia. GeoConnect serves as a platform to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and exchange ideas among individuals working with geographic information systems (GIS).

In this session, we’ll explore GeoConnect’s mission to strengthen connections within the geospatial field, highlight upcoming initiatives, and discuss how our network can complement the Vancouver GIS Users Group’s commitment to advancing spatial data management, analysis, and visualization. Together, we can create opportunities for professional growth, innovation, and meaningful engagement in the ever-evolving GIS industry.

Bio: Vanessa Pocock, the current President of GeoConnect (formerly URISA BC), is the GIS Supervisor for the Resort Municipality of Whistler and has previously worked in the private sector for a BC-based GIS services and consulting firm where she worked on projects for various organizations - from local to federal government, not-for-profit groups, private business, and First Nations communities. In her +12 years of GIS experience, in both the public and private sector, Vanessa has honed her skills as a GIS business solutions professional by leveraging the support of our geospatial community.

Time: 17:30

Topic: The Evolution of the ICI Society and the Power of Geospatial Data Sharing in BC

Speaker: Steve Mark, ICIS

Zoom Lin: CLick Here

Abstract: Abstract: Since its inception, the Integrated Cadastral Information Society (ICI Society) has played a pivotal role in transforming geospatial data collaboration across British Columbia. Originally founded to facilitate the sharing of cadastral information, the Society has evolved into a vital data-sharing hub connecting local governments, utilities, First Nations, provincial ministries, and the private sector.

This presentation will explore the Society’s journey - from its early efforts in aggregating and standardizing parcel data to its expansion into AddressBC, NG9-1-1 readiness, and automated data-sharing through Geoshare. By fostering collaboration, breaking down data silos, and leveraging common frameworks, the ICI Society has enabled more efficient service delivery, improved emergency response, and enhanced infrastructure planning across the province.

We will highlight key benefits of participation, including cost savings, improved decision-making, and strengthened partnerships, showcasing real-world applications where shared geospatial data has made a measurable impact. As we look ahead, we will discuss the future of geospatial collaboration in BC and how continued engagement with the ICI Society can further unlock the potential of shared location intelligence.

Bio: Steve Mark is the Director of Operations at the Integrated Cadastral Information Society (ICI Society), where he passionately leverages geospatial data and social connections to drive transformative change. With a commitment to fostering collaboration, Steve is dedicated to facilitating the sharing of location intelligence, empowering better decisions and outcomes for members and communities across British Columbia.

As the leader of the Operations Team, Steve manages the Society’s business and staff, ensuring a safe, secure, and productive workplace. He oversees the overall management and administration of the ICI Society and is responsible for successfully delivering the strategic plan set by the Board of Directors. Reporting directly to the Chair of the Board, Steve plays a crucial role in guiding the organization’s operations, ensuring alignment with the strategic priorities while enhancing positive external relations to meet members’ needs.

In addition to his operational responsibilities, Steve oversees communications and stakeholder engagement, developing innovative approaches to create improved value for the Society and its members. He believes in the power of collaboration and invites connections to explore how the synergy of data and teamwork can shape resilient communities.