Abstract
This work addresses the rock matrix strength comparative analysis on rocky coasts. A coastal geoengineering integrated system for rocky coast assessment was proposed and applied in two fissured granitic key-sites in NW Iberia (NW Portugal, and Galicia). The main stages of the study comprise six steps: (i) high-resolution aerial imagery survey; (ii) visual inspection and systematic monitoring; (iii) applied field datasheet; (iv) in situ evaluation; (v) scanline survey; (vi) coastal geosciences engineering GIS based mapping. The Schmidt Hammer and Equotip tester were applied to measure the rebound and hardness, respectively, in rocky platforms, geoforms and coastal boulders. Moreover a detailed description of discontinuities and a geologic-geotechnical evaluation in the rocky platforms was performed. The current rock project is of great interest especially to highly dynamic coastal areas. This approach evolving geomorphic processes, geoengineering issues and geomechanical testing assessment contributes to support coastal management/planning.

Abstract
This work deals with the problem of assessing armourstone structures focusing on strengthening the combination of geo-marine techniques and geotechnical properties. The research has two main purposes: (i) to establish an integrative coastal geo-engineering approach for better assessment of the hydraulic structures; and (ii) to draw attention to the importance of quarry evaluation in order to improve armourstone quality and durability. Several studies have demonstrated the relevance of a holistic approach to coastal design issues. The suggested approach couples GIS-based mapping with geo-engineering techniques assessment along five pilot sectors of the Espinho coastal system in Northwestern Portugal. This investigation allowed us to propose zoning a coastal structure according to its degree of deterioration, geomechanical properties and geomaterial status. Replacement of the primary armour layer in only selected sections or components of the structure will reduce the cost of maintenance, repair and reinforcement work. All the gathered data about the preservation status of the armour layer and the quarry inventory have been compiled in a powerful GIS geo-database. The paper argues for the wider use of combination of coastal geo-engineering and GIS analysis in planning the monitoring and/or maintenance of marine works using armourstone.

Abstract
This study was concerned with shoreline change and cliff recession. Galicia (north-west Spain) comprises a very energetic and diversified coast. The study focused on the analysis of the coastal dynamics and the spatio-temporal changes of coastal morphology for the years 1956, 2003, 2006 and 2008, using the digital shoreline analysis system (DSAS) extension. Estimation of the rates of erosion and accretion along the pilot site (Fisterra/Finisterre area) was performed. In addition, a continuous coastline along Galicia was integrated into a geographical information system project which comprises an interactive database with key information. A coastal susceptibility map (erosion/accretion) was created based on the DSAS results for the short-term approach and cross-checked with knowledge of the area in terms of geology, geomorphology and landslide occurrences. Aspects related to the engineering solutions, land-use planning or environmental management were considered in the recommended strategy, as well as the impact and disturbance severity analysis for each action used. This research was developed to provide useful information about the Galicia territory and to give reliable data for the coastal management plan supported by the council. Such plan addresses some changes to the coastal policy and encourages future issues.

Abstract
Digital photogrammetry and GIS-based mapping are increasingly recognised as powerful tools in littoral issues. This paper considers the interoperability framework for high-resolution imagery acquisition and the development of coastal geoscience maps. The layered system architecture of the cartographic methodology is also explained. Moreover, it highlights a new approach to assessing heterogeneous geologic, geomorphological and maritime environments. The main goal of the present study was to test a new concept for photogrammetric images in order to assist modelling techniques, spatial analysis and coastal conceptual models. This approach proposes a methodological approach to coastal zone monitoring and to maritime forcing conditions evaluating. This approach will allow: (1) the acquisition of a large archive of high-resolution imagery; (2) the development of a coastal database including the entire data field and in situ assessments; (3) the study of coastal dynamics and shoreline evolution; (4) the assessment of the rock platforms and hydraulic structures; (5) the production of coastal geosciences maps. An integrated coastal geoscience and engineering methodology was outlined in NW of Iberian Peninsula (South Galicia and North/Central Portugal regions). This paper reports on the increased knowledge of the studied regions, providing essential data concerning coastal geo-morphodynamics. The overall assessment revealed additional evidence of erosion issues, which contributes to a better understanding of the hydraulic conditions. The main results are presented in regional coastal geoscience maps and local approach-outputs that could help government, local authorities and stakeholders to develop coastal management plans and to recommend strategies.

Abstract
This work describes a preliminary methodological framework for the assessment of coastal volcanic rocky platforms in Pico Island (Azores). This study also deals with the importance of GIS-based mapping and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) whichwere tested in two studied areas (Lajes and Madalena sites). This research gives an overview about the UAVs work flow and its application for photogrammetric assessment of coastal volcanic rocky platforms. The main purpose of this study is to explore the influence of basaltic lava coastal platforms and associated boulder strewn, which are well differentiated in Lajes and Madalena sites. In general, this research describes the image acquisition process and the UAV LiDAR technology and the aerial surveys to acquire the geodatabase which will enable the design of geoscience and geotechnical maps on coastal volcanic rock platforms. The images analysis will allow: (i) boulder geotechnical description and evaluation; (ii) shore and coastal platform assessment; (iii) propose monitoring coastal plans (short to long-term); (iv) rock boulders (basaltic blocks) mobility, movement trend, imbrication, indicating flow and source direction; (v) obtain DTM and contour lines to generate 3D models of the coastal area. All these data is crucial to understand the coastal dynamics of the sites and develop an applied mapping which couples GIS technologies and UAV based spatial platform. It was also developed a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) datasheet which incorporates the entire database of ground control points, using high resolution GPS system for the georeferencing and differential correction process. This research presents the preliminary results of the coastal geotechnics mapping for volcanic environments. Furthermore, high resolution image acquisition, georeferencing and differential correction of the ground control points using high accuracy GPS, were also thorough analysed to improve the general methodology presented herein. Finally, it was proposed a preliminary integrated coastal engineering study for the rocky platform zoning and short to long-term monitoring in selected sites on Pico Island. The study was partially financed by FEDEREU COMPETE Funds and FCT (GeoBioTec|UA: UID/GEO/04035/2013) and LABCARGA|ISEP reequipment program: IPP-ISEP|PAD’2007/08. © 2016 Taylor & Francis Group, London.

Abstract
This paper addresses Three-Dimensional (3D) reconstruction of historical sites with an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), combining the information from a visible spectrum camera with a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR). The developed solution was validated in two sites located in Monastery of Tibães (Braga, NW Portugal), within the scope of MineHeritage project, which intends to reach society on the importance of raw materials through a historical approach. The outputs obtained from the datasets, resulted in a successfully 3D reconstruction of the two studied sites on the Monastery. Although the research is still ongoing on this topic, this paper is a starting point and an important contribution to this field and this type of scenarios. © CLAWAR Association Ltd.