New tools and process workflows incorporating geophysical site investigation are available to make data-driven evaluations of bridge scour and erosion for risk assessment and resilient design. TRB hosted a webinar on Thursday, October 26, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern that described the use of geophysical techniques for subsurface exploration and subsequent data analysis along with application for subaquatic characterization of historical and existing scour conditions. These techniques create holistic earth models for geotechnical analysis and risk and resilience assessment. Presenters also discussed process workflow and the advantages associated with design, analysis, and visualization of geophysical data for decision-making.

This webinar was sponsored by TRB’s Standing Technical Committees on Geotechnical Instrumentation and Modeling, Hydrology, Hydraulics, and Stormwater, and Mechanics and Drainage of Saturated and Unsaturated Geomaterials.

The slides are linked in the meeting materials. View the recorded webinar below.

Webinar agenda and presenters

1. Application of low- to high-frequency acoustic methods for seabed characterization regarding scour and erosion risk assessment – Nina Stark, Virginia Tech

2. Integrated geophysical and geological investigations to characterize sedimentological and anthropogenic conditions in support of design, monitoring, and rehabilitation of bridges – Matt Art, e4sciences

3. A cloud connected field-to-design workflow for transportation infrastructure ground engineering – Laura Quigley, Seequent

4. Question and answer session moderated by Derrick Dasenbrock, Federal Highway Administration

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

Learning Objectives

At the end of this webinar, participants can:

1. Understand acoustic methods for shallow and surficial seabed soil characterization in scour and erosion risk assessment application

2. Identify the benefits of integrated geophysical characterization

3. Describe the advantages of an integrated geotechnical, geological, and geophysical data approach for a holistic understanding of subsurface conditions

Professional Development Hours

This webinar was delivered as a scheduled – e-learning live event and is categorized within RCEP as Technical, Health and Safety.

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.

American Institute of Certified Planners Certification Maintenance Credits

This webinar was approved by the American Planning Association (APA) for 1.5 Certification Maintenance (CM) Credits. CM credits provide continuing education opportunities for AICP Certified Planners to continue their professional skills and knowledge. To receive CM credits, Certified Planners should visit the TRB event webpage on American Planning Association and register their participation. If you have problems reporting your CM credits or have general questions about the CM program, please contact the APA.