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Mass Movement & ICS Forms

What is mass movement? Define and provide examples of the differing types of mass movement events.

Further,  Discuss the potential causes of mass movement. In terms of the root causes, is the threat of mass movement ever-present, or might it rather be a seasonal or recurrent risk? State your support for either as well as indicate where (geographically) such hazard risk might be ever-present and where it might be seasonally recurrent.

 

Part B 300 Words

1. Review the Incident Action Plan Excel file. 2. Explain why having access to this tool and knowing how to use it will enhance your ICS knowledge.

The Microsoft Excel file is the preferred version to use.  However, there are numerous electronic versions of the ICS forms available including apps in Google Play and the App Store.  Here are some for your use.  Feel free to utilize others that serve the same purpose.

ICS Forms Workbook.xls – Microsoft Excel (this is the preferred document to use)

ICS Forms Workbook – *pdf (this is a *pdf version of the Microsoft Excel file)

NIMS/ICS Forms Booklet – *pdf (complete version from FEMA)

The ICS forms can also be downloaded from FEMA here:  https://training.fema.gov/icsresource/icsforms.aspx

Your initial post is due on Thursday.

1. What is mass movement?,

2. What are examples of different types of mass movement?,

3. What are potential causes of mass movement?,

4. Is the threat of mass movement constant or seasonal?,

5. How does the ICS Forms Workbook enhance ICS knowledge?

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Comprehensive Answer:

Mass Movement & ICS Forms

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Part A: Mass Movement Overview (300 Words)

Mass movement, also known as mass wasting, refers to the downward movement of soil, rock, and debris under the influence of gravity. It plays a major role in shaping landscapes and can cause significant destruction to property, infrastructure, and ecosystems.

Types of Mass Movement:

1. Rockfalls: Sudden, free-falling of rock from steep slopes or cliffs.

2. Landslides: Rapid downward movement of rock, soil, and debris, often triggered by rain or earthquakes.

3. Mudflows: Fast-moving flow of water-saturated earth material, commonly occurring after heavy rainfall.

4. Slumps: Movement of a mass of earth material along a curved surface, creating a step-like feature.

5. Creep: Slow, gradual downhill movement of soil, often unnoticed until it causes damage to structures or trees.

Causes of Mass Movement:

• Gravity: The fundamental driving force.

• Water Saturation: Heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt increases pore water pressure, weakening soil cohesion.

• Earthquakes: Shaking can destabilize slopes.

• Slope Angle: Steeper slopes are more prone to movement.

• Human Activity: Deforestation, mining, and construction can destabilize slopes.

Is It Constant or Seasonal?
The threat of mass movement can be both ever-present and seasonal. In mountainous areas like the Himalayas or Andes, landslide risk is constant due to steep slopes and tectonic activity. Meanwhile, in places like California or Japan, mass movements are often seasonal, with higher risk during rainy seasons, typhoon periods, or after wildfires. Coastal cliffs in the UK also face constant but slower erosion-related movements.

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Part B: ICS Forms Workbook (300 Words)

The Incident Command System (ICS) Forms Workbook is a valuable tool for emergency management, serving as a structured way to organize incident response information. This Microsoft Excel-based workbook includes standardized forms that guide incident planning, resource tracking, and response documentation.

Importance in ICS Knowledge:
Accessing and knowing how to use the ICS Forms Workbook greatly enhances ICS proficiency for several reasons:

1. Organization: It ensures all critical information is systematically documented, helping responders maintain situational awareness throughout an incident.

2. Standardization: The forms are consistent across agencies, allowing seamless coordination between local, state, and federal responders.

3. Efficiency: Electronic formats allow for faster data entry, easier sharing, and quick updates during rapidly changing emergencies.

4. Comprehensive Planning: Forms such as ICS 201 (Incident Briefing) and ICS 215 (Operational Planning Worksheet) help incident commanders assess situations, allocate resources effectively, and outline safety measures.

5. Legal Record: Proper documentation may later be required for audits, after-action reviews, or reimbursement claims.

Practical Advantages:
Having the Excel version allows for quick calculations, embedded formulas, and automatic population of certain data fields, which reduces errors and saves time during high-pressure situations. While apps and PDFs are useful for mobile access, Excel provides better flexibility for detailed planning on larger incidents.Mass Movement & ICS Forms