Using dendogeomorphology in research on a slope deformation in Běleč, Czech-Moravian Highland

Abstract

Research on the Běleč creeping slope deformation is a contribution to identification of the causes of a breakdown of the water-supply conduit of the Brno regional water-supply network and to ensuring its regular operation. Field geomorphological mapping was used for the research and dendrogeomorphologic methods, especially the method of analysis of tree rings (eccentric tree rings, growth changes), were used for studying the slope failure dynamism. Slope movement activity in the years 1900-2007 was monitored with the help of 45 boring samples. The analysis of tree rings of common beech (Fagus sylvatica) samples did not prove continual movements over the whole extent of the deformation. The present activity is characterized only by local episodic movements of creeping character in the years 1947, 1975, 1993, 1997 a 2006. It was proved that the slope deformation did not have a direct impact on the breakdown of the water-supply conduit in 2005.