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This is a Quantitative Study study.

September 18, 2025

A method for quantifying the erosion susceptibility of coastal slopes of natural ecosystems based on the analysis of a digital relief model based on aerial laser scanning data

VAVictoria I. AfanasevaSaint Petersburg State University of Aerospace and Instrumentation ABA.R. Bestugin IKI.A. Kirshina

Key Points

The method identifies erosion-hazardous areas objectively, enabling effective management of coastal ecosystems.
Analysis revealed a strong correlation between the calculated index and actual destruction zones, underscoring its accuracy.
Sequential processing of digital relief models includes filtering, interpolation, and calculating gradients to assess slope stability.
Using automated assessments reduces the need for ground measurements, enhancing operational efficiency in coastal monitoring.

Abstract

Problem statement. Changes in the dynamics of the coastal zone under the influence of natural and anthropogenic processes remain one of the least formalized problems in the control systems of aquatic systems. The episodic nature of observations, the limited availability of coastal slopes and the heterogeneity of vegetation cover prevent the use of traditional means of assessing erosion activity. In modern conditions, it is necessary to move from empirical descriptions to algorithmic analysis methods capable of objectively detecting signs of terrain instability at an early stage. Objective. Formation of an automated method for searching for erosion risk zones based on the analysis of morphometric characteristics obtained from airborne laser scanning data, with an emphasis on reproducibility, scalability and independence from external factors. Results. A method for quantifying coastal erosion susceptibility has been developed that implements sequential processing of a digital relief model: from filtering and interpolation to calculating normalized gradients and curvatures. An integral index has been introduced that takes into account the geometric and structural parameters of the slope. The algorithm was tested on typical fragments of the coastline and revealed a significant correlation between the calculated index and the actual destruction zones. Practical significance. The method provides an objective identification of erosion-hazardous areas without operator involvement and without the need for ground measurements. This makes it possible to use it in operational surveys, in engineering risk assessment tasks, as well as in regular monitoring of the dynamics of the shores of lake, river and reservoir systems. The obtained index models are compatible with geographic information systems and can serve as a basis for predictive scenarios of coastline development.

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