Kamloops & Surrounding Areas – Structural and Geotechnical

Kamloops sits in the heart of the Thompson Valley, where the land tells a long story of rivers, glaciers, and ancient volcanic activity. The North and South Thompson Rivers carved broad valleys and left behind layers of sand, silt, and gravel, while the surrounding hillsides are often covered with colluvium and glacial till. To the east in Salmon Arm and the Shuswap, lacustrine silts and soft lakebed soils can present challenges for foundations near the water. South toward Merritt, glacial till and fractured rock dominate the slopes, influencing drainage and stability. West toward Cache Creek and Ashcroft, arid soils and steep valleys shaped by erosion require special attention for retaining structures. Together, these geological contrasts make the region both fascinating and complex — and they highlight why understanding local ground conditions is essential for safe and lasting construction. 

 One of the unique challenges in Kamloops is the presence of silt bluff “red” and “yellow” zones identified by the City and regional planners. These areas are made up of steep, fine-grained lacustrine silts that are prone to erosion, shallow slides, and instability when exposed to water. The “red zones” are considered high hazard, where building restrictions are strict, while the “yellow zones” allow development but require detailed geotechnical assessment and engineered solutions. Many properties along the Thompson River valley and on the South and North Thompson slopes are affected by these designations. For homeowners and developers, understanding whether a property falls within these zones is critical — and it highlights the importance of proper geotechnical review before construction begins. 

 The variety of soils and slopes in Kamloops and its neighbouring areas means that no two building sites are alike. In low-lying valley floors, loose sands and silts can settle under heavy loads if foundations are not properly designed. On the hillsides above the rivers and lakes, steep slopes combined with colluvial soils increase the risk of shallow slides or erosion. In places like Salmon Arm and Chase, water from lakes and creeks often seeps through the ground, adding pressure to slopes and retaining walls. Even in Merritt and Cache Creek, where glacial tills and bedrock are more common, fractured layers can affect stability and drainage. For these reasons, safe construction in the Interior of BC depends on careful site assessment, engineered solutions, and foundations that match the geology beneath each project. 

 At BC Foundations, we provide solutions designed for the unique ground conditions of Kamloops and the Thompson region. Our services include the design and installation of helical piles and micro-piles for deep foundations, slope stability assessments for hillside properties, and underpinning to reinforce existing structures affected by settlement. We also design and oversee the construction of retaining walls and drainage systems to manage water and protect slopes. Each service is backed by full geotechnical and structural engineering, ensuring compliance with the BC Building Code (2024) and the guidelines of Engineers and Geoscientists BC. Whether your project is a new home on a hillside lot, a commercial building in the valley, or a remediation project in a red or yellow zone, our team tailors each solution to the geology beneath your property. 

 Choosing the right engineering partner in Kamloops means more than just meeting building code — it means working with a team that understands the land, the regulations, and the risks unique to this region. At BC Foundations, we combine geotechnical insight with structural expertise to deliver solutions that last. We know the challenges of silt bluff zones, the variability of valley soils, and the steep slopes that surround many local properties. Our team provides end-to-end support — from site assessments and engineering design to pile installation, retaining walls, and slope stabilization — all completed under the oversight of licensed professionals. With a proven record across Kamloops and the Thompson-Okanagan, we bring peace of mind that your project will be safe, stable, and ready for the future. 

 If you’re planning to build, renovate, or stabilize a property in Kamloops or the surrounding region, now is the time to connect with BC Foundations. Our team is ready to assess your site, explain the geology, and design solutions that fit both the land and your project goals. From hillside homes to commercial developments, we bring the structural and geotechnical expertise needed for safe, lasting results. Contact us today to discuss your project and take the first step toward building on solid ground.