Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Geotechnical Engineering Partner in Los Gatos
Founded in 1974, our firm has built a legacy of excellence in engineering geology and geotechnical engineering. Our team of seasoned professionals specializes in advanced geotechnical analysis, solving complex challenges for clients across California and the Western United States. We prioritize constraint recognition and site characterization to deliver reliable analyses and mitigation designs. With decades of collective experience, our geologists and engineers have investigated over 600 earth movement cases, utilizing cutting-edge techniques in slope stability analysis and seismic hazard assessment. Our commitment to innovation is evident in our use of aerial photogrammetry, 3-D modeling, and geophysical exploration. We provide comprehensive services including litigation support, construction management, and expert witness testimony.Our work has directly benefited public utilities, government agencies, and private entities through tailored solutions for landslide mitigation, fault rupture hazards, and liquefaction risks. We maintain rigorous standards in subsurface investigation, laboratory testing, and instrumentation monitoring. Our reputation for technical excellence is underscored by our involvement in landmark projects across diverse terrains, from coastal bluffs to mountainous regions. We remain at the forefront of earthquake engineering research, applying both deterministic and probabilistic methods to evaluate ground motion risks.
Services
Geotechnical Engineering
Expert Witness Services
Peer Review
Landslide Analysis
Seismic Hazard Assessment
Construction Observation
Fault Investigation
Liquefaction Evaluation
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of specialized experience in geotechnical engineering since 1974
- Our team has investigated 600+ earth movement cases across three states
- We utilize proprietary subsurface investigation techniques for slope stability analysis
- We combine field mapping expertise with advanced 3-D modeling technology
- Our engineers have provided expert testimony in 83+ trials and 205+ depositions
Services
Geotechnical Engineering
Our geotechnical engineering services combine detailed site characterization with advanced analytical techniques to address foundation design, slope stability, and earth retention systems. We conduct comprehensive subsurface investigations using exploratory drilling, laboratory testing, and geophysical methods. Our engineers develop customized mitigation strategies for complex geotechnical challenges in diverse geological settings.
Expert Witness Services
We provide expert witness testimony in geotechnical litigation cases, specializing in damage assessment and causation analysis. Our principals have extensive courtroom experience, having participated in 83+ trials and 205+ depositions. We deliver forensic analysis, expert reports, and cost allocation assessments for earth movement-related disputes involving landslides, foundation distress, and seismic damages.
Landslide Analysis
Our landslide analysis services include investigation of debris flows, rockfalls, and earthquake-induced landslides using specialized subsurface exploration techniques. We employ 2D and 3D modeling to evaluate slope stability parameters and design cost-effective remediation measures. Our team has completed assessments for major infrastructure projects and government agencies across California, Hawaii, and Utah.
Seismic Hazard Assessment
We conduct comprehensive seismic hazard assessments including fault rupture characterization, liquefaction potential evaluation, and ground motion analysis. Our services cover active fault investigations for critical infrastructure and probabilistic seismic risk modeling. We develop mitigation strategies for dams, schools, and water facilities located in seismically active regions.
Construction Observation
Our construction observation services include field testing, instrumentation monitoring, and quality control for geotechnical projects. We perform earthwork compaction testing, drainage system installation observation, and foundation construction monitoring. Our team utilizes in-house soil testing facilities to ensure timely data collection and implementation of mitigation measures during construction phases.
People
Bill Cotton
Founder
Recognized for geological expertise and field mapping skills, Bill established the firm's tradition of combining detailed geologic observation with advanced engineering analysis. His work laid the foundation for the company's approach to complex geotechnical challenges.
Patrick O. Shires
Senior Principal Geotechnical Engineer
With 83+ trial testimonies and 205+ depositions, Mr. Shires specializes in geotechnical litigation support. He leads earthquake-triggered landslide analysis and has provided expert consultation for state and federal government agencies across multiple jurisdictions.
Questions
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve California and the Western United States, with extensive experience in diverse geological environments from coastal regions to mountainous terrain.
What types of geotechnical services do you offer?
Our services include slope stability analysis, seismic hazard assessment, foundation design, construction monitoring, expert witness testimony, and specialized geophysical investigations.
How experienced is your team with landslide analysis?
Our senior staff has collectively investigated over 600 earth movement cases, utilizing advanced 2D/3D modeling and specialized subsurface investigation techniques for landslide mitigation.
Do you provide expert testimony services?
Yes, our principals have extensive litigation support experience, including 83+ trials and 205+ depositions as expert witnesses in geotechnical matters.
What construction monitoring capabilities do you have?
We offer comprehensive construction observation including earthwork quality control, instrumentation monitoring, and in-house soil testing to ensure implementation of geotechnical recommendations.
