A geotechnical site investigation is the process of collecting information and evaluating the conditions of the site for the purpose of designing and constructing the foundation for a structure, such as a building, plant or bridge. A geotechnical site investigation in permafrost regions is more complex than in southern temperate climate regions because:
a) potential presence of ice within the soil or rock whose properties are temperature and salinity dependent;
b) climate change is warming the ground thereby decreasing the strength of the frozen ground and eventually thawing it and
c) the presence of saline soils in coastal areas.
Good planning for and management of a geotechnical site investigation is the key to obtaining sufficient and correct site information for designing a structure in a timely manner and with minimum cost for the effort needed.