Assessing climate-induced changes in the bearing capacity of rural gravel roads using a Light Weight Deflectometer

Forest and rural roads are essential infrastructure for sustainable land management and wood transportation. However, the combined effect of repeated heavy machinery traffic and environmental conditions can degrade the road surface, leading to deep rutting, and loss of bearing capacity. This study, which is intended as a preliminary analysis of gravel rural roads, evaluated the structural performance and load-bearing capacity of a rural gravel road in the Po Valley. Specifically, investigated how roadside trees, rainfall, and traffic affect overall road stability. The analysis was conducted across four sampling campaigns from February to Julay 2026, integrating drone survey, Light Weight Deflectometer dynamic deformation modulus, laboratory moisture content and particle-size analysis and local ARPAV weather data. Results showed that both open and tree-bordered road segments maintained adequate bearing capacity with respect to international standard. Therefore, statistical analysis revealed no significant negative or positive impacts from tree presence, no correlation between soil moisture content, rainfall and structural stability, highlighting the effective drainage of the gravel layer. Overall, the non-destructive method used in this work provides a efficient approach for monitoring and managing forest and rural road networks.