Grant To Help Assess Risk Of Mudslides, Rock Falls

An engineering researcher at the University of Arkansas has received $1.14 million in funding to develop a system for assessing areas at risk for mudslides or rock falls caused by the effects of wildfires. The funding includes a $570,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, $433,000 in matching funds from the university and $137,000 in matching funds from other institutions. The system - based on remote-sensing technologies - will help highway managers determine the threat of mudslides or rock falls to transportation infrastructure, develop plans to close routes and ensure public safety.