Characterization of Landslides Using Advanced Remote Sensing Techniques, Standard Monitoring Techniques, and Laboratory Testing

Abstract

Two slope failures that affecting two interstates in the state of Arkansas were monitored using traditional surveying techniques (total station) and advanced remote sensing techniques (Light Detection And Ranging [LiDAR] and RAdio Detection and Ranging [RADAR]). One failure was located near Chester, AR (calibration site) and the other slope failure was located near Malvern, AR (validation site). The results of monitoring program completed at both sites (calibration and validation) and geotechnical explorations/laboratory testing (validation site) are discussed and compared in this case study. INTRODUCTION While individual slope failures are not as spectacular or costly as other natural disasters such as earthquakes, major floods, and tornadoes; slope failures are more widespread. In aggregate, the total financial loss due to slope failures is probably greater than that for any other single geologic hazard (Griffiths et al., 1999). The ability to precisely identify the extents of a landslide and to monitor and preemptively mitigate potential landslide disasters can help save money and ensure slope remediation is properly performed. During the past six years the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) has spent over nine million dollars repairing slope failures that have occurred in the state of Arkansas. Therefore, a necessity exists to quantitatively identify the surface extents, movement rates, and direction of movements of a given landslide using advanced remote sensing techniques. Specifically, the Gamma Portable RADAR Interferometer (GPRI-II) and a Leica 289 Geo-Congress 2013 © ASCE 2013