Evaluation of wood degradation for timber check dams using time domain reflectometry water content measurements

► We analysed larch wood logs at different degradation levels by surveying their water content with the TDR technique. ► 3 field campaigns were conducted in 3 different check dams built between 1950 and 2003 and located in the NW Italian Alps. ► A laboratory analysis was performed with wood samples to calibrate the TDR data with those obtained with the gravimetric method. ► The degradation levels of wood estimated with a visual comparison are correlated with the TDR wood water contents.