EXTREME GEOLOGY: ACTIVE VOLCANO MONITORING IN HAWAI'I

Understanding volcanoes and how they work requires an extensive knowledge in the sciences (geology, physics, and chemistry) as well as field experience. Kilaeua, an active volcano on the island of Hawai'i, provides ample opportunity to observe and monitor volcanic activity that may pose a threat to the many people living in its vicinity. The aspects of volcano monitoring explored include physical volcanology, gas geochemistry, ground deformation, and seismology. Visitation of active lava flows, field analysis of flow characteristics and geomorphological volcanic features, application of gas sampling techniques, and setting up of field-based seismic stations all contributed in helping understand what is involved in the day-to-day life of a volcanologist.

Experience in the aforementioned areas was obtained by the author on an undergraduate field camp experience during the summer of 2006. Data analysis was conducted in the labs of the University of Hawai'i at Hilo while field excursions took place on Kilaeua and Mauna Loa. The importance of field experience in geological science cannot be stressed enough. Field experiences set geology apart from other majors in a conventional university setting in that they expose a student to the real world and test the application of knowledge obtained in a classroom setting. Experience in the field is an excellent teacher for it compels the mind to question, analyze, interpret, and adapt as necessary.