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INSTRUCTORS:
Anthony Dombrowski, P.E., M.ASCE
Pavlo Chrysovergis, PE, GE
Richard Sack, PE, CA, M.ASCE
Clement Lerevenu, M.Eng
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the Geo-Extreme 2025 conference.
Landslide Identification and Proposed Remediation for Castaic Power Plant South Portal Access Road (13 minutes)
This presentation presents a detailed case study of a landslide impacting the South Portal Access Road at the Castaic Power Plant following extreme rainfall events. The speaker discusses field observations, damage progression, and emergency response actions taken to maintain access to critical infrastructure. A comprehensive geotechnical reconnaissance program, including seismic refraction and surface wave analyses, was used to delineate subsurface conditions and landslide geometry. The role of undocumented fill, weak slope materials, and intense precipitation in triggering the failure is examined. Various remediation alternatives were evaluated with respect to safety, constructability, environmental constraints, and operational requirements. The selected dual soldier pile wall system and its design considerations are presented as a practical mitigation solution.
Methodologies for Effective Slope Failure Reconnaissance (15 minutes)
This presentation outlines a systematic approach to slope failure reconnaissance with an emphasis on identifying failure mechanisms and contributing factors. The methodology is structured around three phases: pre-field research and document review, on-site investigation, and post-failure monitoring. Key tools such as historical aerial imagery, public records, interviews, and rainfall data are discussed as essential components of causation analysis. Field techniques including visual mapping, subsurface exploration, and identification of seepage or cracking are highlighted. The presentation also introduces advanced reconnaissance tools such as thermal imaging, drone-based photogrammetry, and LiDAR for change detection and terrain modeling. Practical examples demonstrate how these methods support accurate diagnosis and informed repair strategies.
Trump National Golf Club - 25 Years After a 17 Acre Land Slide Destroys the 18th Hole in Rancho Palos Verdes (16 minutes)
This presentation reviews the historic 1999 reactivation of an ancient landslide that destroyed the 18th hole of the Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes. The geological setting, including weak shale units and bentonite layers, is examined as a primary contributor to large-scale slope instability. The speaker describes the investigation, design alternatives, and construction challenges associated with stabilizing a massive coastal landslide. A mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) buttress wall system combined with shear pins was selected to address stability while preserving sensitive habitat. Construction details, performance monitoring, and long-term outcomes are discussed. The case demonstrates how innovative geotechnical solutions can achieve durable performance in highly challenging geologic environments.
Geohazards Related to Karst, State of Qatar: Towards the Elaboration of Geohazards/Risks Maps and Guidelines (16 minutes)
This presentation describes a national-scale assessment of karst-related geohazards in the State of Qatar, conducted as part of the Qatar Hydrogeological Assessment Project. The study integrates geological mapping, borehole data, LiDAR-derived terrain analysis, field reconnaissance, and InSAR subsidence monitoring. Distinct karst mechanisms, including dissolution caves and roof-collapse features, are identified and spatially correlated with geologic formations and groundwater conditions. A conceptual karst hazard model is developed to evaluate probability and intensity of potential ground collapse. These findings are translated into a countrywide geohazard map and associated design and construction guidelines. The work demonstrates how geoscience data can be transformed into practical tools for land-use planning and infrastructure development.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of these sessions, you will be able to:
- Explain how field reconnaissance and geophysical investigations inform landslide mitigation design for critical infrastructure.
- Identify key reconnaissance methods used to evaluate slope failure causes and ongoing movement.
- Discuss how large-scale landslide remediation strategies can be designed to balance stability, constructability, and environmental constraints.
- Describe how integrated geological and remote sensing data are used to develop karst geohazard maps and design guidelines.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).
Who Should Attend?
- Geotechnical Engineers
- Structural Engineers
- Civil Infrastructure Designers
- Researchers and Academics
- Risk and Resilience Analysts
- Construction and Project Managers
How to Earn your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short post-test online and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 1 year of purchasing the course.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]