Student4Student Summerschool

The Tyrolean Alps are characterized by complex geological formations and dynamic geomorphological processes, making them susceptible to various natural hazards, including landslides. This excursion offers participants an opportunity to explore both active and historical landslide sites, providing insights into the factors contributing to slope instability and the measures implemented for hazard mitigation.
Participants will visit sites where recent landslides have occurred, observing the aftermath and ongoing stabilization efforts. Additionally, the excursion will include locations of historical landslides, discussing their impact on local communities and the evolution of geotechnical practices over time.

We are going to visit a site close to Obergurgl, which is called Hochgurl that is situated on the eastern side of the valley where satelite data shows creeping movements of the hillside. On the opposite site of the valley, there is a landslide affecting the gallery of the road. During previous summer schools, laserscan images where taken from that area. We are going to apply some common field experiments, e.d. the Schmidt-hammer and sieve-analysis.

This half-day excursion involves guided visits to selected landslide sites within the Tyrolean region.

The itinerary includes:

• Site Visits: Exploration of active landslide areas to observe current geological activity and mitigation strategies.
• Historical Context: Visits to sites of significant past landslides, discussing their causes, impacts, and the lessons learned.
• Field Discussions: On-site discussions led by experts in geotechnical engineering and geology, focusing on slope stability, risk assessment, and the socio-economic implications of landslides.

During the excursion, they will observe the geological features and effects of landslides firsthand. Participants will also conduct basic in-situ soil mechanics tests.