 The
landslides that struck rain-soaked California in 2005 were tragic
reminders that we need a better early warning system for
these natural disasters.
And Scott Ashford might have the answer.
A group of UCSD researchers, led by Ashford, a geotechnical engineering
professor, is using laser scanners to create 3-D views of California’s
most threatened real
estate—its scenic coastal bluffs. “With the data we’re
collecting,” says Ashford, “we’re now able to
identify ‘hot spots’ where authorities and landowners
may want to take immediate preventive measures.”
Ashford’s top-three suggestions are:
•Minimize irrigation. The soil of most bluffs is weak to begin with,
but sprinkler water further weakens the soil, adding more weight
for the bluff to support.
•Control drainage. Slope the land on top of the bluff away from
the face of the bluff, and divert surface water to storm drains
where regulations allow.
•Use appropriate plantings. Succulents, such as ice plant, can become
so laden with water they actually “pull” chunks off
the bluff. Drought-tolerant native plants are recommended.
—Rex Graham
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