A groundbreaking study supported by the Cascadia Region Earthquake Science Center (CRESCENT) is underway to answer a fascinating question: Why did the last Cascadia earthquake appear to trigger few landslides? Researchers hypothesize that forest structure may play a role in damping seismic waves, reducing their impact on hillslopes in particular settings. This study explores whether certain types of forests act as natural shock absorbers during earthquakes, making ground shaking less severe compared to areas with different vegetation structure and/or land use.

To test this idea, the research team is using advanced SmartSolo 3C seismic sensors, which are compact, all-in-one devices capable of recording ground motions. These sensors were installed in the McDonald-Dunn Research Forest in two distinct landscapes: mature forests and adjacent clearings. By capturing both normal ground movements and vibrations from nearby quarry blasts that mimic earthquake activity, the team aims to compare how the ground responds in each environment.

The findings could provide insights into whether forests reduce seismic wave intensity. Additionally, the study aims to determine if different types of forests influence ground motion during earthquakes and to better understand how forests and landscapes interact during major seismic events.

The implications of this study extend far beyond its scientific curiosity. Understanding the role of forests in stabilizing landscapes could shed light on the history of large earthquakes and inspire innovative strategies to enhance landscape resilience to seismic waves.

This study is a collaboration between OSU and several university partners, including:

Will Struble, University of Houston, PI
Valerie Sahakian, University of Oregon, co-PI
Jill Marshall, Portland State University, co-PI
Josh Roering, University of Oregon, co-PI
Ben Leshchinsky, Oregon State University, co-PI