New approaches to stability analysis of steep coastal bluffs

We present a discussion on the limitations and needed improvements for existing slope stability analysis methods to accurately model steep coastal bluff failures resulting from both direct wave action at the toe in weakly cemented sands and precipitation-induced seepage failures in moderately cemented sands. Using a case-study detailing over 5 years of observations of coastal bluff erosion and landsliding in northern California, we show that existing analysis methods over-predict the observed crest retreat and mis-predict the field-measured failure geometry. In response, we propose new analysis methods for evaluating stability in these settings.