Slope and Maps

Submitted by:

Candelaria, Mary Claire D.

Submitted to:

Ar. Gerelson Ray R. Bernardino, UAP, PIEP, MSCM, CIPM

February 1, 2024
TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION
…………………………………………………………………………….1

SLOPE ………………………………………………………………………………………..2

SLOPE AND STRUCTURES

……………………………………………………………….3

FLAT SLOPE ………………………………………………………………………..3

MODERATE SLOPE
………………………………………………………………..4

STEEP SLOPE
……………………………………………………………………...4

ANGLE OF REPOSE
………………………………………………………………………..5

SOIL STABILIZATION TECHNIQUES …………………………………………………….6

SLOPE ANALYSIS
…………………………………………………………………………..8

METHOD OF ANALYSIS ……………………………………………………………………

9

SLOPE MAP ………………………………………………………………………………..12

MAP
………………………………………………………………………………………….13

TYPES OF MAP ……………………………………………………………………………

14

CONCLUSION ……………………………………………………………………………..16

RECOMMENDATIONS ……………………………………………………………………17

REFERENCES
……………………………………………………………………………..18
INTRODUCTION

Slopes are created naturally through physical processes such as erosion,

weathering, and tectonic activity. Erosion and weathering of rock masses lead to the
deposition of materials, forming natural inclines over time. Tectonic activity, including
plate tectonics and volcanic eruptions, can also contribute to the formation of slopes.
Additionally, an area's natural terrain and topography play a significant role in
creating slopes, with mountains, hills, and valleys being examples of naturally formed
sloped landscapes. According to Earle (2015), mass wasting occurs due to tectonic
processes that create uplift, leading to erosion driven by gravity. This erosion results
in the formation of slopes in uplifted regions. The stability of slopes is determined by
two factors: the angle of the slope and the strength of the materials on it. In areas
with relatively recent uplift, such as British Columbia and the western part of Alberta,
slopes tend to be steep, especially where glaciation has occurred. In contrast, in
areas without recent uplift, like central Canada, slopes are less steep due to
hundreds of millions of years of erosion, including mass wasting. However, mass
wasting can still occur on relatively gentle slopes, as the strength of the materials on
slopes can vary widely, with solid rocks generally being strong but having a wide
range of rock strength.

Studying the slope of a land is necessary for various reasons. In

mathematics, a line's slope or gradient describes its direction and steepness,
providing essential information for understanding the characteristics of the terrain.
Understanding slope gradients in property development and construction is crucial
for successful projects, as it influences design considerations, accessibility, and
buildability. Before commencing a new project, property developers must assess the
land's slope to determine its acceptability. The slope impacts design considerations
and influences a structure's accessibility, buildability, and safety, particularly when
constructed on a slope. Understanding the acceptable slope gradient is essential for
successful projects, as it ensures effective planning and execution. For instance, a
6% slope is considered suitable for various development types, influencing decisions
about road material, width, and guardrail requirements. Additionally, the slope's
impact on soil nutrients, sediment distribution, and solar radiation exposure further
emphasizes the need to evaluate and understand slope characteristics (Cesar,
2023).

For instance, knowledge of the slope helps in creating safe and stable road
designs, especially in hilly areas, and in ensuring proper drainage and interior space

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utilization in property development. Moreover, the concept of slope has broader
implications, serving as a fundamental basis for modern developments in terms of
both mathematics and real-world applications. Therefore, studying the slope of land
is essential for various fields and has practical implications in different aspects of
design, construction, and safety.

SLOPE

A slope refers to the incline or slant of a surface, often described by the angle
of inclination or the degree of slant. The slope of land is a measure of its incline or
slant, often described by the angle of inclination or the degree of slant. It is an
important factor in various fields, including geography, construction, and
environmental assessment. The slope can be measured in terms of percentage,
degrees, or descriptive terms such as gentle, moderate, strong, very strong, extreme,
steep, and very steep.

The failure of a mass of soil located beneath a slope is called a slide. It

involves a downward and outward movement of the entire mass of soil that
participates in the failure. The failure of slopes takes place mainly due to gravitational
forces, seepage forces within the soil, excavation or undercutting of the foot, and
gradual disintegration of the soil structure.

The slope of a land, when expressed in percentage, ranges from 0 to

essentially infinity. To calculate the percentage of slope, the elevation change is
divided by the horizontal distance covered, and the result is multiplied by 100. This
method is used to express the steepness of a slope and is important in various fields,
including construction, environmental assessment, and land use planning. The "run"
in this calculation assumes that the distance traveled is on an idealized flat surface
and does not account for the actual distance traveled once elevation change is
factored in. The slope percentage can also be calculated using the rise and run
values, where the rise is the difference in elevation between two points, and the run
is the horizontal distance between them.

The slope percentage is expressed as a range, a flat surface is 0 percent, a

45-degree surface is 100 percent, and as the surface becomes more vertical, the
slope percent becomes increasingly larger. In Table 1, a relatively flat level is typically
in the range of 0-3%, an easy grade is in the range of 4-6%, a moderate undulating
to steep slope is in the range of 7-14%, a steep slope is in the range of 14-18%, a not
alienable and disposable slope is anything over 18%, a rolling to hilly slope is in the
range of 18-30%, a hilly to mountainous slope is in the range of 30-50% and a

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mountainous and excessively steep slope in anything greater than 50%. The slope
percentage can also be negative, where a positive slope means the terrain rises, and
a negative slope means it falls.

Table 1: Ranges of Slope

SLOPE AND STRUCTURES

In property development, understanding the slope of the land is essential as it

significantly influences a property's value, usability, and potential. The slope not only
impacts design considerations but also affects the accessibility of a structure, its
buildability, and safety. It is crucial to measure the slope at the early stages of a
project for several reasons. Firstly, a well-defined slope ensures optimal water
drainage, while properties with inadequate slope measurements risk water pooling,
leading to erosion. Secondly, the construction and building plans are influenced by
the slope, with steeper slopes often leading to more intricate and costly construction.
Additionally, the slope of the land determines the very foundation of construction on
the site and influences decisions about road stability, material, and width.

For example, a 6% slope is considered moderate and provides the right

balance for property developers. Understanding the slope of the land is crucial due to
the diverse terrains of many lands, making property development a complex process
(Cesar, 2023).

Flat Slope

There are several ways to build a structure on a flat slope. First, the use of
the "cut and fill" method, which involves cutting into the slope to create a level
building site and using the excavated soil to fill in lower areas. Another method is to
use stilts or piers to elevate the structure above the slope. Building retaining walls is
another option, which involves constructing a wall to hold back the soil and create a

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level building site. The suitability of soil for construction, especially on slopes, is
crucial for the stability of any structure.

Building on a flat lot has its benefits, such as it is less expensive than building
on a sloped site, as it requires less excavation and grading work. Secondly, building
on a flat slope is easier and faster, as it requires less specialized equipment and
labor. Thirdly, building on a flat slope provides more design flexibility, as it allows for a
wider range of architectural styles and floor plans. Fourthly, building on a flat slope is
safer, as it reduces the risk of landslides and other natural disasters associated with
building on a steep slope. Finally, building on a flat slope provides easier access to
the site, making it easier to transport materials and equipment to the construction
site. However, it has disadvantages, such as it doesn’t offer the same natural light
and scenic views as building on a sloped site. It presents drainage challenges,
requiring careful planning to ensure effective water management. Lastly, it may limit
the aesthetic opportunities that a sloped site can offer, such as panoramic views and
unique design possibilities.

Moderate Slope

When building on a moderate slope, one cost-effective method is to set the

house into the slope, rather than trying to level out the slope. This approach can help
minimize the additional costs associated with building on a slope. Additionally, for
moderately sloped sites, gentle grades of less than about 10% are the easiest to
build on. Between 15% and 20%, it is advisable to plan to spend a little more on
grading and the foundation. A moderately sloped site allows for a walk-out basement
and can be regraded to a terraced yard. However, it is important to consider the
additional costs associated with grading and foundation work when building on a
moderate slope (Evaluating a Building Lot -- Slope, Soils, Drainage, Radon, and
More, n.d.).

Building on sloped land can enhance natural ventilation, reducing the reliance
on artificial cooling and decreasing energy bills. It also boasts magnificent views,
offering panoramic views of the environment, such as mountains or the ocean. This
can provide an unparalleled and valuable aesthetic appeal. The additional floor levels
added to accommodate the slope can add character and variety to the home,
providing unique design opportunities. However, time and expense are incurred in
preparing the land for building, involving excavation fees and constructing additional
supports for the structure, and prone to erosion and surface water runoff, presenting
drainage challenges, are one of its disadvantages.

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Steep Slope

When building on a steep slope, several considerations and methods can be

employed to ensure a successful construction project. First, the suitability of the soil
for construction, especially on steep slopes, is crucial for the stability of any structure.
Second, steep sites are prone to erosion and surface water runoff, so it is essential to
implement appropriate drainage systems and erosion control measures to mitigate
flooding and ensure the structural integrity and longevity of the building. Next,
building a foundation on an uneven site can be challenging and costly, and may
require specialized techniques. Additionally, constructing retaining walls can be
useful in managing the grade of the slope and preventing erosion. Lastly, developing
a construction timeline that factors in challenges specific to working on a slope, as
well as considering logistics and access routes to the site for construction personnel,
vehicles, and equipment, are important aspects to address when building on a steep
slope.

Building on steep slopes has its advantages and disadvantages. Building on a

steep slope can offer stunning views, increased natural light, and the potential for
unique architectural features. However, presents challenges related to accessibility,
drainage, and construction.

ANGLE OF REPOSE

The angle of repose, also known as the critical angle of repose, refers to the
steepest angle of descent or dip relative to the horizontal plane on which an object
can rest without sliding. It is a characteristic related to interparticulate friction or
resistance to movement between particles. The angle of repose can range from 0° to
90°, and it is influenced by the morphology of the material, with smooth, rounded
grains having a lower angle of repose than rough, interlocking grains.

The angle of repose is a critical factor that affects the stability of a structure.
The angle of repose is the steepest angle at which a pile of unconsolidated grains
remains stable, and it is controlled by the frictional contact between the grains. The
angle of repose plays a part in several topics of technology and science, including
soil mechanics, slope stability, and powder flow. The angle of repose is different for
different materials, and it is influenced by climatic and non-climatic factors. The angle
of repose affects the stability of a slope, and it is essential to consider it when
building on a slope. If the angle of repose is exceeded, the material on the slope face

5
will slide, leading to slope failure and instability. Therefore, understanding the angle
of repose is crucial for ensuring the stability of a structure built on a slope.

Fig. 1. Angle of Repose

Fig. 2. Materials and their angle of

repose

As you can see in Figure 2, materials that have below 30-45 degrees tend to
have lower angle of repose values, which can affect their flow properties and the
design of storage and handling equipment while materials having higher angles of
repose indicate that they can be piled to a steeper angle without sliding down the
slope, and they generally exhibit greater stability.

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SOIL STABILIZATION TECHNIQUES

Soil stabilization techniques involve improving soil properties through chemical

and mechanical methods. These methods include adding binders such as cement
and lime to the soil, adding chemicals to change the chemical composition of the soil,
and physically altering the soil to affect its gradation and solidity. Soil stabilization is
used to strengthen the soil for construction and erosion control purposes.

I. Bank Shaping and Vegetations

Bank shaping and vegetation techniques are used for natural
riverbank stabilization and erosion control. Bank shaping involves
reshaping the bank to create a protective vegetative barrier, while
vegetation techniques focus on establishing and enhancing plant growth
along the riverbank. These methods help prevent erosion, improve bank
stability, and protect the surrounding environment. They often involve the
use of native plants, live staking, coir fabric, and other natural materials to
promote sustainable bank stabilization and enhance the ecological
function of the riverbank.
II. Live Stakes
Live staking is a technique used for natural resource management,
particularly in stream and riverbank restoration. It involves the collection of
live branches or stems from woody plants, which are then planted directly
into the soil to promote the growth of new trees and shrubs. The live
stakes, typically harvested during the dormant season, develop roots and
eventually grow into new plants, providing an effective and low-cost
method for stabilizing eroding stream banks and enhancing riparian
habitats. The process involves planting the live stakes into the soil, often
in a triangular arrangement along the stream bank, and ensuring that they
are well-watered and maintained to support successful establishment and
growth.
III. Branch Packing
Branch packing is a technique used for natural riverbank stabilization
and erosion control. It involves the use of layers of compacted fill and
branches secured with live and wooden stakes. The stakes and eventual
root structure will strengthen the bank while the exposed branches and
vegetation will filter sediments and protect the bank surface from erosion.

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 This technique is often used in combination with other methods such as
bioengineered bank treatments and toe armor to provide comprehensive
and effective riverbank protection.
IV. Live Fascines
Live fascines are bundles of live branch cuttings placed in long rows in
shallow trenches across slopes and streambanks for biotechnical
stabilization. They are utilized for erosion control and vegetation
establishment on long slopes, road fills, road cuts, gullies or slumped
areas, eroded slopes, eroding streambanks, or lake shores. The
technique is known by various other names such as live brush bundles
and willow wattles. It is a resistive measure to protect the soil and is often
used in combination with other erosion control methods to provide
comprehensive and effective slope and bank stabilization.
V. Vegetated Geogrids
Vegetated geogrids are synthetic materials with high-tensile strength,
commonly made of polymers such as polyester, polyvinyl alcohol,
polyethylene, or polypropylene. They are used for biotechnical
stabilization and vegetation establishment on slopes, road fills, gullies,
eroded slopes, and streambanks. These geogrids are often combined with
other erosion control methods to provide comprehensive slope and bank
stabilization. The technique offers a green-friendly approach to solving
grade separation, providing a reinforced facing for walls and slopes,
protecting surfaces from erosion, and offering an ideal medium to achieve
a sustainable green finish.
VI. Brush Matress
The brush mattress technique involves creating a layer of interlaced
live branches on a bank face, often with a live fascine and/or rock at the
base. The branches are placed perpendicular to the slope contour to
reinforce the earth and mass. This method is used for erosion control and
revegetation in areas subjected to cut or fill operations or those
susceptible to erosion. It is often combined with other erosion control
methods to provide comprehensive slope and bank stabilization. The
brush mattress technique is a form of bank armoring that offers a green-
friendly approach to protecting surfaces from erosion and achieving a
sustainable green finish.

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SLOPE ANALYSIS

Slope analysis, also known as slope stability analysis, involves a set of

engineering calculations and methods to predict the probability that an earth slope
will erode a slough or slide. It is used to assess the safe design of human-made or
natural slopes, such as embankments, road cuts, open-pit mining, excavations, and
landfills, as well as their equilibrium conditions. The analysis aims to identify
endangered areas, investigate potential failure mechanisms, determine slope
sensitivity to different triggering mechanisms, design optimal slopes concerning
safety, reliability, and economics, and design possible remedial measures, such as
barriers and stabilization. The presence of water, geological information, and site
characteristics, such as properties of soil/rock mass, slope geometry, and
groundwater conditions, are crucial factors in slope stability analysis. Various
methods, including limit equilibrium analysis, kinematic analysis, and rock fall
simulators, are used to assess slope stability and ensure the safe and reliable design
of slopes.

METHODS OF ANALYSIS

In the context of slope stability analysis, the limit equilibrium method and the finite
element method are two basic types of approaches.

I. Limit equilibrium method

Huang (2014), the limit equilibrium method is a widely used approach
for analyzing slope stability in both two and three dimensions. It
investigates the equilibrium of a soil mass tending to slide down under
the influence of gravity. This method identifies potential failure
surfaces and calculates the safety factor of a slope based on the
balance of forces and moments. The fundamental feature of the limit
equilibrium method is that it only considers static equilibrium,
simplifying the analytical calculation and shortening the computing
time. However, it has limitations, such as the restriction of the Mohr-
Coulomb criterion to the description of rock mass and the need for
reasonable approximations for the analysis of slope stability. Despite
these limitations, the limit equilibrium method is widely applied in
engineering projects due to its distinctive advantages, such as
providing quick answers and being well-understood. It is commonly
used for the analysis of retaining structures, excavations, and slope

9
stability, and it forms the basis for assessing the stability of slopes and
related structures.

Fig. 3. Limit equilibrium method

Limit equilibrium methods are used to investigate the stability

of a soil mass that is inclined to slide down due to gravity. These
methods consider both translational and rotational movements on an
assumed or known potential slip surface beneath the soil or rock
mass. In rock slope engineering, these methods can be highly
significant for predicting simple block failures along distinct
discontinuities. The methods are based on comparing the forces,
moments, or stresses resisting the mass's movement with those that
can cause unstable motion (disturbing forces). The output of the
analysis is a factor of safety, which is the ratio of the shear strength (or
cohesion) to the shear stress (or other equivalent measures of shear
resistance or capacity) (Digvijay et al., n.d.).

Method of Slices:

Fig. 4. Method of Slices

The slices are the most popular limit equilibrium technique.
The method of slices is a technique used in slope stability analysis,

10
 where the sliding mass above the potential failure surface is divided
into several slices. The forces and moments acting on each slice are
calculated, considering the soil weight, along with shear and normal
stresses along the failure plane. Each slice is analyzed individually,
and interactions between slices are neglected. This method is based
on the principles of force and moment equilibrium for each slice and is
used to assess the stability of slopes and derive the factor of safety
against potential failure.
II. Finite Element Method
The Finite Element Method (FEM) is a numerical technique used to
perform finite element analysis (FEA) of various physical phenomena,
such as structural analysis, heat transfer, fluid flow, mass transport,
and electromagnetic potential. It is a general numerical method for
solving partial differential equations (PDEs) in two or three space
variables, which are often used to describe physical processes. The
FEM works by subdividing the slope into smaller elements and
analyzing the forces and moments within each element. This method
is advantageous over traditional limit equilibrium methods as it can
provide information about deformations at working stress levels and
monitor progressive failure, including overall shear failure. The FEM
has been increasingly used in slope stability analysis due to the
development of cheaper personal computers, making it more
accessible for engineering applications (Griffiths & Lane, 1999).
III. Numerical method of analysis
Numerical modeling techniques provide approximate solutions to
problems that cannot be solved by conventional methods due to complex
geometries, material anisotropy, nonlinear behavior, and in situ stresses.
These techniques allow for the modeling of material deformation and
failure, pore pressure, creep deformation, dynamic loading, and the
assessment of parameter variations. However, numerical modeling is
limited by several factors, such as the availability and accuracy of input
parameters, which are often not measured or poorly understood.
Numerical methods used in slope stability analysis can be divided into
three main groups: 1). Continuum modeling - a numerical technique used
to model the behavior of a slope as a continuous medium, without
considering the underlying atomic structure. It is suitable for the analysis
of soil slopes, massive intact rock, or heavily jointed rock masses,

11
 including the finite difference method (FDM) and the finite element method
(FEM) (Digvijay et al., n.d.). 2). Discontinuum modeling - suitable for
analyzing the stability of slopes in heavily jointed rock masses, where the
behavior of the rock mass is dominated by the discontinuities rather than
the continuum properties. It is capable of simulating the behavior of the
rock mass correctly, including discontinuity response and interactive
coupling of slope and hydraulic response to a changing environment. 3).
Hybrid/coupled modeling – it integrates the advantages of both modeling
techniques, allowing for the accurate representation of complex
geometries, soil-structure interaction phenomena, and the behavior of
heavily jointed rock masses. Hybrid modeling techniques are capable of
simulating the response of slopes to various triggering mechanisms and
can provide improved predictions of slope stability by combining the
strengths of different numerical methods.

SLOPE MAP

A slope map is a topographic map that shows changes in elevation on a

highly detailed level, providing a colorized representation of the slope of the terrain.
Slope maps are generated using elevation data and are commonly used in slope
stability analysis to identify areas with varying degrees of slope, which is crucial for
assessing the stability of the terrain. Slope maps are a powerful tool in geography
and planning, revealing the steepness of terrain through color gradients. Architects,
landscape designers, and water control planners use slope maps to evaluate a
particular site. Slope maps are also used to predict the flow of water, which can
cause heaving and shifting of buildings and parking lots, and runoff from storms that
can damage property.

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 Fig. 5. Slope Map

I. Aspect – Slope Map

An aspect-slope map is a topographic map that overlays elevation
information with aspect information, showing the direction and degree of
slope for a terrain. Aspect values indicate the directions the physical
slopes face, and slope values indicate the degree of steepness. These
maps can also be striking visualizations in themselves. In aspect-slope
maps, color hues such as red, green, and blue represent different
directions, and the hues are brighter on steeper slopes and duller on
flatter slopes. Lighter hues are used on northwest-facing slopes, and
darker hues are used on southeast-facing slopes.

Fig. 6. Aspect – Slope Map

II. Contour Map

A contour map is a topographic map illustrated with contour lines,
such as a topographic map, which shows valleys and hills, and the
steepness or gentleness of slopes. Contour lines connect points of equal
elevation, and the spacing between the lines indicates the steepness of
the terrain. These maps are used to represent the three-dimensional
nature of the land on a two-dimensional surface. They are particularly
useful for visualizing the topography of an area and predicting the flow of
water, and they provide essential information for assessing the suitability
of a site for different purposes.

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 Fig. 7. Contour Map

MAP

A map is a visual representation of an area, typically a two-dimensional

depiction, that shows geographical features, such as land, water, and human-made
structures. Maps can also display other information, such as political boundaries,
population distribution, and climate. They are used for navigation, planning, and
analysis of the Earth's surface and are created using cartographic techniques. Maps
can be found in various forms, including paper, digital, and interactive formats, and
they are essential tools for understanding and communicating spatial information.

TYPES OF MAP

I. General Reference Map

A general reference map is a type of map that shows important
physical (natural and man-made) features in an area. These maps are
simple and easy to read, summarizing the landscape to aid in the
discovery of locations. They are usually easy to understand and do not
include information on altitude. General reference maps are used for
navigation and understanding the layout of an area.
A vicinity and location map is a type of general reference map that
shows the location of a specific area to its surroundings. It is often used in
architecture and construction to provide an overview of a site's location
and context. The map typically includes major roads, landmarks, and
other features that help orient the viewer to the area. The vicinity and
location map is a useful tool for understanding the relationship between a
site and its surroundings.
II. Topographic Map
A topographic map is a type of map that shows the detailed elevation
of the land, including contour lines that connect points of equal elevation.
It is used to understand the physical characteristics of a site, including
geographical planning, civil engineering, and large-scale architecture.
Topographic maps are characterized by large-scale detail and are
traditionally required to show both natural and artificial features. They are

14
 used to provide a general image of the earth's surface, including roads,
rivers, buildings, and other features.
III. Thematic Map
A thematic map is a type of map that portrays the geographic pattern
of a particular subject matter (theme) in a geographic area. This usually
involves the use of map symbols to visualize selected properties of
geographic features such as temperature, language, or population.
Thematic maps focus on specific themes or phenomena, such as
population density, rainfall and precipitation levels, vegetation distribution,
and poverty. They are designed to illustrate the relationship between a
theme and physical space, making spatial patterns clearer and allowing
for further insights. Thematic maps are used to analyze the spatial
distribution of information and to visualize location-based data, making it
easier to spot correlations and trends within the data sets.
IV. Utility Maps
A utility map is a type of map that displays the location of underground
utilities such as water, gas, and electrical lines. These maps are essential
for planning and construction to avoid damage to existing infrastructure.
Utility maps are used to identify the location of underground utilities, which
can be difficult to locate without proper documentation. They are often
produced by utility companies and are required to be carried by most
construction crews.
V. Zoning Maps
A zoning map is a type of map that shows different areas of land and
what they can be used for. It is made by a set of rules called a zoning
ordinance. Zoning maps are important tools for city planners and
developers, as they help to guide the development of a city or town in a
way that is efficient, sustainable, and beneficial for all residents. Zoning
maps illustrate the different zones within a city or area, indicating land use
regulations and restrictions, which is crucial for compliance with local
building codes and regulations. These areas are called zoning districts
and are created by a zoning ordinance. For example, a zoning map might
show that a certain area is zoned for residential use, while another area is
zoned for commercial use. This helps to ensure that different types of
buildings and activities are located in appropriate areas and can help to
protect the environment and public health.
VI. Cadastral Maps and Charts

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 A cadastral map, also known as a cadastral plan, is a detailed map of
a specific area that shows the boundaries and ownership of land parcels.
It is a fundamental tool for establishing land ownership and is used for
various purposes, including taxation, land valuation, and land use
planning. Cadastral maps are created by cadastral surveyors, who
determine the boundaries of a property and cross-reference deeds, maps
of nearby properties, county and utility maps, records, and other legal
documents to establish the property's official boundaries. These maps are
essential for proving land ownership and are often used for land taxation
purposes. They are typically managed by government agencies and are
one of the oldest forms of mapping, with roots dating back to ancient
civilizations.

CONCLUSION

Slope stability analysis is crucial in engineering and construction to prevent

unwanted movement and ensure the long-term safety and stability of structures. It
helps reveal potential indicators for slope failure, such as topography, material
strength, soil water content, and vegetation. Understanding the stability of a slope is
essential for planning construction, as failure to do so could result in landslides,
foundational shifts, and damage to property and individuals. Knowledge of the
applicable and allowable structures for a particular slope is vital to ensure that the
construction is safe and sustainable. Different slopes may require specific
engineering techniques and structural designs to mitigate the risks associated with
the terrain.

In the field of architecture and planning, studying and analyzing the slope and
soil is fundamental for site selection, building design, and the implementation of
appropriate foundation systems. Understanding the characteristics of the slope and
soil helps architects and planners make informed decisions about the suitability of a
site for construction and the type of structures that can be safely built. It also enables
them to incorporate measures to enhance the stability of the built environment, such
as terracing, soil reinforcement, and drainage systems.

It is essential to prioritize slope protection and erosion control measures to

prevent accidents, avoid material damage, and protect human lives and the

16
environment. Failing to understand the degree of slope and the characteristics of the
soil, can lead to inadequate planning and construction methods.

In conclusion, the importance of slope lies in its impact on the stability of

structures and the safety of the built environment. Understanding the degree of
slope, the applicable construction methods, and the characteristics of the soil is
essential for informed decision-making in architecture and planning, ultimately
contributing to the safety, resilience, and sustainability of our built environment.

RECOMMENDATIONS

When building on sloped land, it is essential to consider several factors to

ensure the safety, stability, and sustainability of the structure. One approach is to
construct the structure on stilts, which avoids the need for expensive foundations and
negates the requirement for tanking. It is also crucial to ensure the structure's
foundation is secure and to implement measures to mitigate erosion, which are vital
for the building's stability and longevity. Accessibility and layout should also be
considered, including accessible routes for individuals with disabilities,
accommodating different levels in the layout, and complying with accessibility
standards. Massing strategies such as sitting the house on the ground, embedding
the house into the ground, floating the house above the ground, or sticking the house
out over the slope should also be considered. Finally, utilizing the slope to shelter the
house and narrow the view's focus can make the house part of the view by building
to conform to the land's contours and blend rather than clash with the topography. By
considering these recommendations, the selection of appropriate structures for
building on sloped land can contribute to the safety, sustainability, and integration of
the built environment with the natural landscape.

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REFERENCES

Beakawi Al-Hashemi, H. M., & Baghabra Al-Amoudi, O. S. (2018). A review on the

angle of repose of granular materials [Online Image]. Researchgate.
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