Risk of Landslides in Shallow Soils and Its Relation to Clearcutting in Southeastern Alaska

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Abstract
A significant increase in the frequency of landslides in shallow soils on hillside slopes of southeastern Alaska following timber harvest by clearcutting has been observed. This phenomenon relates to the loss of root strength and evapotranspiration stress that follows the cutting of the trees. A method for evaluating the landslide risk is described in this paper. A hillside with a nearly uniform slope is represented by an infinite slope and the piezometric level required for shear failure is computed. A one-dimensional infiltration-seepage model is used to calculate the response of the piezometric level to rainfall. Weather data are used to calculate the probability of the piezometric level exceeding the value required for slope failure. Uncertainties in soil strength and slope angle may also be accounted for in the calculation of failure probability. Field data obtained from a site near Hollis, Alaska, are used to illustrate the method of risk evaluation and cost analysis. Forest Sci. 26:495–510.

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