In North America, the field of geohazard mitigation is quite young. Around the world, however, it is a strong field of geotechnical design. Geohazard experts also utilize or their technologies are specified in conjunction with geosynthetics frequently, such as for road construction and rockfall protection. The Association of Geohazard Professionals (AGHP), which was formed in 2013, is fostering a dialogue among experts in geohazards, geosynthetics, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders to build a strong North American presence for these essential designs.
VISIT THE AGHP WEBSITE
For the strength of connection between the sectors of geohazards and geosynthetics, look no further than the recently elected AGHP President: Ghislain Brunet of Maccaferri, a company that maintains a large footprint in these geotechnical arenas.
The association has increased its presence quickly. Some of the initiatives and news from AGHP in the past month include:
- A preliminary affiliation with the 1200-member Canadian Geotechnical Society (CGS). The CGS is involved in orchestrating some geohazards education in Canada. It also has a strong role in geosynthetics, through its interaction with the North American Geosynthetics Society.
- The Post Anchoring Committee—one of five major committees of the AGHP—launched its first survey to assess standards, voids in standards, and other professionals aspects impacting specification and technology expansion across the marketplace. This information will help steer the next phase of market-building efforts, such as the creation of guidance documents with/for regulatory agencies and the engineering community.
- Establishment of the AGHP’s inaugural photo contest
Furthermore, members of the AGHP will be active in a number of forthcoming events, such as the Highway Geology Symposium (HGS), the Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists (AEG) Rock Slope Design Symposium, STGEC 2015, and TRB 2016.
Learn more about AGHP membership on the association website.
