"It should be emphasized that the short-term hazards posed by volcanoes are
balanced by benefits of volcanism and related processes over geologic time."
-- Tilling, 1985
Volcanoes and People
The "Plus Side" of Volcanoes ...
"Volcanoes both harass and help mankind."
Fertile Soils
"Volcanic materials ultimately break down and weather to form some of the
most fertile soils on Earth."
Geothermal Energy
"The internal heat associated with young volcanic systems has been harnessed to
produce geothermal energy." ...
includes Newberry Caldera, The Geysers Geothermal Field, Casa Diablo, Salton Sea
Geothermal Field
Mineral Resources
"Most of the metallic minerals mined in the world, such as copper, gold, silver,
lead, and zinc, are associated with magmas found deep within the roots of extinct volcanoes
located above subduction zones."
Industrial Products
"People use volcanic products as building materials, as abrasive
and cleaning agents, and as raw materials for many chemical and industrial uses."
Recreation and Tourism
America's National Parks and Monuments ... includes
Yellowstone Caldera - First National Park, Mount Rainier - Fifth National Park,
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, etc.
URL for CVO HomePage is:
<http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/home.html>
URL for this page is:
<http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/LivingWith/PlusSide/framework.html>
If you have questions or comments please contact:
<GS-CVO-WEB@usgs.gov>
02/26/04, Lyn Topinka
