Mass-movement, geologic structure and morhologic evolution of the Pizzotto-Greci slope (Calabria, Italy)

The main aspects of the geological and geomorphological studies and some preliminary geotechnical data are presented here, along with a conceptual model aimed at describing the relationships between the mass-movements on the slope and the constructionrdestruction stages of the fan at the base of the slope. The model is based on the assumption that aggradation has a stabilising effect on the slope, thus debris-flow activity is reduced and, consequently, destruction of the fan occurs, bringing the slope again towards unstable conditions. The reactivation of mass-movement, however, leads to the reconstruction of the fan and the buttressing effect at the base of the slope is restored. Thus, the process is cyclic and self-regulating.