Geomorphological analysis and landslide susceptibility assessment of the Valcarene drainage basin (Elba Island, Northern Tyrrhenian Sea)

This paper presents a geomorphological analysis and landslide susceptibility assessment of the Valcarene drainage basin (Elba Island, Northern Tyrrhenian Sea). Morphometric analysis, geomorphological field mapping, and landslide susceptibility evaluation were carried out supported by literature data and GIS-based techniques. Field mapping was performed by students of the ‘Applied Geomorphological Field Survey & GIS' course (Master's Degree in Geological Sciences and Technologies of Earth and Planets - University ‘G. d'Annunzio’ of Chieti-Pescara). Landslide susceptibility was assessed using a heuristic approach. Eight landslide controlling parameters were weighted based on expert judgement and combined via cartographic overlay process, to produce the final five-level susceptibility map (from Very low to Very high). This study emphasizes the educational value of experiential learning in geo-hydrological hazards-oriented activities, equipping students with pratical methodologies. Moreover, it provides insights for local administrations and decision-makers for proper territorial planning, as well as a useful basis for further scientific studies and research.