Application of Multi-frequency Electromagnetic Induction for Monitoring of Soil-moisture Dynamics at the Hillslope Scale

Hydrogeological issues play a major role for slope stability in the context of natural hazards. Therefore, the investigation of subsurface structures related to soil-moisture pattern as well as monitoring of soil-moisture dynamics is essential for the assessment of landslide risks. In this study, we present first results of ongoing soil-moisture monitoring in the western Austrian Alps based on the application of electromagnetic induction. We use a multi-frequency device that delivers electrical conductivity data from various depths. The results of two surveys in different seasons show a depth-related and temporal heterogeneity of conductivity data, related to spatial soil heterogeneity and different hydrogeological properties of the ground. Further mapping surveys for a more detailed analysis of relative soil-moisture dynamics are planned.