How can geotechnical methods help in the rapid response to extreme events? TRB hosted a webinar on Monday, May 24, 2021 from 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern that explored how geotechnologies may assist in responding to extreme events. Presenters identified how geotechnical techniques may address floods, coastal erosion, sinkholes, landslides, and other unforeseen or sudden events. They also discussed how designers can balance competing interests of costs and time.

This webinar was organized by the TRB Standing Technical Committees on Transportation Earthworks, Geotechnical Instrumentation and Modeling, and Soil and Rock Properties and Site Characterization.

The slides and recording are available. 

Webinar agenda and presenters

1. Geophysical data in coastal and riverine areas after extreme events: Nina Stark, Virginia Tech University
2. Geotechnical testing tools that enable testing in a rapid manner: Stacey Kulesza, Kansas State University
3. Opportunities and limitations: Robert Garfield, Hager-Richter
4. Question and answer session: Derrick Dasenbrock, Federal Highway Administration

The first 60 minutes of the webinar will be for presentations and the final 30 minutes will be reserved for audience questions.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Describe how geophysical data and testing tools help in extreme events
2. Identify opportunities and limitations of employing geotechnologies

Professional Development Hours

Professional Development Hours (PDHs) earned on completion of this program were reported to the Registered Continuing Education Program (RCEP). Certificates of Completion are issued to all participants via the RCEP.net online system. Complaints about registered providers may be addressed to RCEP, 1015 15th Street, NW, 8th Fl., Washington, DC, 20005.