Geologic Hazards--About Us (USGS)

Landslides Program USGS scientists are working to reduce long-term losses and casualties from landslide hazards through better understanding of the causes and mechanisms of ground failure both nationally and worldwide.

Landslide Problem Landslides, including debris flows, are a national problem. They occur in significant numbers in all 50 states and are widespread in the U.S. island territories. Landslides disrupt communities and lifelines, transportation corridors, fuel and energy conduits, and communication linkages. It is estimated that landslide-related fatalities average from 25 to 50 per year, and that direct and indirect economic costs to the nation range up to $2 billion per year. The Pacific Coast, the Rocky Mountains, and the Appalachian Mountains are particularly susceptible to the effects of landsliding.

The Landslides Hazards Group The Landslides Hazards Group conducts research, gathers information, responds to emergencies and disasters, and produces scientific reports and other products for a broad-based user community. The group provides the results of investigations to private consultants in geology and geotechnical engineering, and to government planners and decision makers.

National Landslide Information Center The NLIC is responsible for distributing information about landslides to the lay public, researchers, planners, and local, state, and federal agencies. The NLIC provides a toll-free number (1-800-654-4966) and a webpage, whereby anyone can make inquiries about landslides.

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Page URL: http://geohazards.cr.usgs.gov/html_files/landslides/about_ls.html
Page created/modified: 20 November 1998



Landslides Program	USGS scientists are working to reduce long-term losses and casualties from landslide hazards through better understanding of the causes and mechanisms of ground failure both nationally and worldwide.
Landslide Problem	Landslides, including debris flows, are a national problem. They occur in significant numbers in all 50 states and are widespread in the U.S. island territories. Landslides disrupt communities and lifelines, transportation corridors, fuel and energy conduits, and communication linkages. It is estimated that landslide-related fatalities average from 25 to 50 per year, and that direct and indirect economic costs to the nation range up to $2 billion per year. The Pacific Coast, the Rocky Mountains, and the Appalachian Mountains are particularly susceptible to the effects of landsliding.
The Landslides Hazards Group	The Landslides Hazards Group conducts research, gathers information, responds to emergencies and disasters, and produces scientific reports and other products for a broad-based user community. The group provides the results of investigations to private consultants in geology and geotechnical engineering, and to government planners and decision makers.
National Landslide Information Center	The NLIC is responsible for distributing information about landslides to the lay public, researchers, planners, and local, state, and federal agencies. The NLIC provides a toll-free number (1-800-654-4966) and a webpage, whereby anyone can make inquiries about landslides.