The Volcano Hazards Program is comprised of many different disciplines. The volcano geodesy group at CVO is one of them. It is our mandate to collect data that will help in volcano hazard assesments. We have implemented this goal by installing baseline geodetic networks on many of the volcanoes in the Cascades, Alaska, and other parts of the country and world. By establishing these networks and remeasuring them, we not only have background data but also gain the experience needed should a volcano become active.

Along with the baseline data collection, we also are researching new methods to help in monitoring active volcanoes. We are currently using and evaluating a system using Global Positioning System (GPS) and an in-house telemetry system to monitor Augustine volcano in Alaska.

• Project description.

  • Collect data to help interpret volcano hazard assesments.

  • Establish baseline information on volcanoes located in the U.S and around the world.

  • Research and implement new methods to monitor active volcanoes.

• Current methods of measuring volcanic deformation.

  • Measuring distance changes to points located on a volcano using an Electronic Distance Measuring (EDM) instrument.

  • Measuring 3-dimensional changes using Global Positioning System (GPS).

  • Electronic tiltmeters.

  • First order leveling at and around volcanoes.

  • Dry tilt measuring small area (35-40 m equilateral triangle) tilt.

• Other activities.

  • Help other volcano observatories (Alaska and Hawaii) when asked.

  • Reasearch regional deformation and its relationship to volcanic areas.

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