Use of the 3-D scanner in mapping and monitoring the dynamic degradation of soils: Case study of the Cucuteni-Baiceni Gully on the Moldavian Plateau (Romania)

Abstract

The 3-D scanner, a rapid and precise means of monitoring the dynamics of erosive processes, was first used nationally (Romania) as a new technique of cartography and monitoring the dynamics of soil degradation processes in the Moldavian Plateau. Three sets of measurements took place: in 2008, in 2009 and in 2010, at intervals of exactly one year for the first and six months for the second part. Qualitative and quantitative differences were highlighted. The data obtained were corroborated with precipitation in the area studied. The 3-D scanner has a measurement accuracy of 6 mm. The map highlights the dynamics of gullies developed and may form the basis for the prediction of soil degradation phenomena. The dynamics of the gully and the type of land use show that the phenomenon of erosion of the Moldova Plateau will continue to accelerate. In this case, the gully attacked and destroyed an archaeological site of national importance. The rate of advance of the Cucuteni-Baiceni gully is extremely high (10 m/1.6 years). There are no measures at all to reduce or fight the process of the gully advance. Maximum erosion occurred at the beginning of spring after a winter rich in rainfall, which made the terrain subject to the process of subsidence. © Author(s) 2012.