Uncertainty in landslides volume estimation using DEMs generated by Airborne Laser Scanner and Photogrammetry data

The purpose of this paper is to identify an approach able to estimate the uncertainty related to the measure of terrain volume generated after a landslide. The survey of the area interested of landslide can be performed by Photogrammetry & Remote Sensing (PaRS) techniques. Indeed, depending on the method and technology used for the survey, a different level of accuracy is achievable. The estimate of the quantity of the terrain implicated in the landslide influences the type of geological and geotechnical approach, the civil engineering project on the area and of consequence, the costs to sustain for a community. According to the experiences and recommendations reported in the ASPRS guidelines, an example of the approach used to estimate volumetric accuracy concerning one of the most important landslide in Europe is shown in this paper. In this case study, the dataset is constituted by a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) obtained by photogrammetric (stereo-images) method (pre-landslide) and another by Airborne Laser Scanner (after-landslide). By the comparisons of Airborne Laser Scanner (ALS) and photogrammetry DEMs obtained from successive surveys, it has been possible to produce maps of differences and of consequence, to calculate the volume of the terrain (eroded or accumulated). In order to calculate the uncertainty of volume, a procedure that takes in account even the different accuracy achievable in the vegetation area is explained and discussed.