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In geology, field trips are a great way to get a geologic overview and learn about the past and ongoing research in a particular area. Over the past few years, CalVO geologists have been sampling, surveying, and basically putting much of Lake County under the microscope as we work to establish a detailed eruption history, subsurface geophysical model, and hazard assessment for one of California's young volcanic areas. During our filming, we visited some of the best outcrops and most expansive views of the Clear Lake Volcanic Field to talk about what we've learned - the secrets of the volcanic rocks, the magma and fluids beneath our feet, and how it all ended up at the surface. 

But filming in a volcanic field can be a tricky prospect! The best outcrops might be way down a steep slope, while the views of a great structural feature might be right next to a busy road. (Not to mention aaaaaaall the poison oak...) Making a shot work requires creativity, practice, and occasionally two or three (or five) retakes.

Eventually, all of these videos will be cut, captioned, narrated, and turned into short, informative clips that can be played on one of our interactive USGS Geonarratives (https://wim.usgs.gov/geonarrative/). Most locations will be accessible for visits and hands-on viewing of the featured rocks and structures, just like in a written field guide. In the meantime, visit our Clear Lake Volcanic Field webpages at https://www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/clear-lake-volcanic-field.