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The Conversation
Martin Brook, Professor of Applied Geology, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

Do trees prevent landslides? What science says about roots, rainfall and stability

DJ Mills/Getty Images

In the days since last week’s fatal landslides at Mount Maunganui, there has been widespread discussion about what may have caused the slopes above the campground to fail, including the possible role of recent tree removal on Mauao.

In the aftermath of such tragedy, it is natural to search for clear explanations. But landslides typically reflect a complex combination of factors – from geology and long-term slope evolution to weather, climate and land use.

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