Geomorphology in engineering geological mapping and modelling

Abstract

By now, geomorphological assessment should have become an important component of engineering geological investigation and modelling and yet there are concerns that its use lacks clear guidance. As a result, and for reasons of unfamiliarity, geomorphological assessment can be either under-utilised or not utilised at all, sometimes with adverse engineering outcomes. Four case studies are described that provide illustration of the inclusion of geomorphological assessment a) within engineering geological modelling and b) directly within the sphere of engineering decision-making and design. The discussion focuses on how geomorphological assessment can be utilised to 1) assist in the planning of ground investigations and the interpretation of subsurface ground conditions for ground modelling purposes, 2) assess the geohazard posed by slope, fluvial and other processes and 3) consider the sensitivity of geomorphological systems (geo-systems) to change, thus providing some insight into how geohazard mechanisms, locations and intensities might change during the operational lifetime of engineering schemes. Outline procedures are proposed for the development of geomorphologically inclusive approaches to engineering geological modelling.