LANDSLIDE RESEARCH IN NEBRASKA: A NEW APPROACH

In 1991 a research project involving roadway landslides in Nebraska was published for the Nebraska Department of Roads (NDOR) by the Nebraska Geological Survey. That study documented a total of 207 landslides through out the state highway system and not only made NDOR aware of the magnitude of the problem, but also provided mitigation possibilities. The study revealed that there were many landslides outside the roadway system right of ways that needed to be reported. Some of these slides caused damages to residences, buildings, and public utilities.

A new research project to locate and identify all landslides was started in 2001 using new technological programs, tools and methods. These included the use of a field lap top computer loaded with Nebraska topographic maps and a GPS instrument. An attempt will also be made using remote sensing techniques to locate landslide areas.

The data will be incorporated into a GIS for research, education and publication purposes. Input from city, county, state and federal agencies/departments and other planning, building or permitting groups will be used to broaden the scope and awareness of the project by attempting to determine or estimate losses due to landslides through out Nebraska.