Beyond the Water's Edge: Geotechnics in the Wet

Gaining insight into the subsurface and developing an understanding of what's hidden below ground is a key to the design and construction process. Geotechnical engineers and geologists often develop their first connection to a site by “strolling its limits” and trying to grasp what's below the visible parts. As a project progresses and construction starts, designers find themselves pushing their heels into the ground, poking the ground with probes and gauges, and observing excavations to develop further understanding of the subsurface stratigraphy. As their connection to the site deepens, the designers' confidence grows or they adjust their recommendations based on unexpected conditions that came to light during construction. They truly are connected to the ground and what lies beneath. However, there are sites that they cannot walk on or physically push their heels into. Such sites are where shallow or deep water stands between the designers and the ground that will eventually bear the structures.