ABSTRACT
Removal of vegetation in close vicinity to transportation corridors would have an impact on slope stability due to the loss of hydro-mechanical root reinforcement. Fallowed slope wouldbe subjected to accelerated episodic movements and shallow failure, causing potential ultimate and serviceability limit state problems. This study investigates the effects of plant removal on slope hydrology and stability, through centrifuge and numerical modelling. This study uses artificial roots that are capable of simulating the effects of transpiration in-flight and have mechanical properties closely representative to real roots. Model slopes before and after plant removal (i.e. with and without considering transpiration effects, respectively) were subjected to identical intense rainfall in the centrifuge. Removing all vegetation on the slope lost all the beneficial effects of transpiration-induced suction that would otherwise be present without plant removal. Relying on mechanical reinforcements alone are insufficient to maintain slope stability. Preliminary parametric analyses reveal that to maintain slope stability, plant removal should not be conducted beyond two-third from the slope crest. Even removing only one-fourth of plants from the slope toe would significantly reduce factor-of-safety of slope and temporary support of the slope is needed.
