Soil excavation as the main morphogenetic agent in the Torrent Corlo Valley (Northern Apennines, Italy)

This work deals with morphological changes in the landscape of the valley of the Torrent Corlo from the mid-20th century to date caused by soil excavations. The study was carried out according to the traditional methods used in geomorphology as well as digital processing methods on maps and aerial photographs. The digital data available have been overlaid and compared using GIS software also by means of 3D elaborations in order to better appreciate the morphological features. The main stages of the evolutional trend determined by soil excavation are described and mapped. Finally, a detailed assessment is made of the fundamental role played by excavation activity as a morphogenetic agent of the T. Corlo Valley as well as its impact on the natural evolution of the landscape.