Integrated geomatic surveying and data management in the investigation of slope dynamics in the Scoltenna basin, Northern Apennines (Italy)

Slope dynamics include different processes capable to affect the channel network and influence fluvial dynamics. Landslides and mass wasting processes can be an important source of sediments supply into riverbeds. On the other hand, water courses can erode or re-shape and re-activate slope movements. The aim of this study is the integration of different geomatics methods and techniques in the frame of a more general assessment of the interaction between slope and fluvial dynamics. The study area is situated in the Scoltenna basin in the Northern Apennines (Italy) and displays both active and dormant landslides.

The research so far conducted dealt with an integrated methodological approach applied in order to analyse slope dynamics, including remote and proximal sensing techniques, repeated field surveys and geomorphometric analysis. The key for understanding the effects of such dynamics is the complementarity and the integration of different methods and technologies. In this study, satellite interferometry, global navigation satellite systems surveys (GNSS), aerial photogrammetry based on uncrewed vehicles, and terrestrial laser scanning were used. All ancillary data related to the surveying practice were incorporated and integrated. An in-depth review of existing literature and thematic maps was performed, including the analysis of pre-existing digital data on online platforms and archives (e.g., historical aerial photos, high-resolution satellite images, hydrological dataset etc.). All datasets were organized in a multitemporal perspective, so each individual product was referred to the same georeferenced system and implemented in a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment.

Three study sites, that most reflect the interaction between slope and fluvial dynamics in the Scoltenna basin, were selected to be analysed in detail and monitored through time. The first site (Olina landslide) shows geomorphological evidence of recent activity and was investigated by means of Terrestrial Laser Scanning, UAV photogrammetry (with the drone “DJI Phantom 4 RTK”) and GNSS surveys. The second site (Sasso Cervaro landslide) seems to present a complex style of activity combining multiple mechanisms; in this case UAV photogrammetry (with the drone “Autel Evo 2 Pro”) and GNSS surveys were performed. The third site (La Confetta landslide) is characterized by a recent reactivation at the foot of the slope; here UAV photogrammetry (with the drone “DJI Phantom 4 RTK”) and GNSS surveys were carried out. In the three sites, two monitoring campaigns were performed in order to recognize and monitor possible displacements through time. The next steps of the research foresee further monitoring campaigns and the integration of the collected data on slope movements with the evidence of fluvial morphodynamics.