Map of Norris Geyser Basin showing the locations of major subbasins, roads and trails, and Nuphar Lake.
Michael Poland
Mike Poland is a research geophysicist with the Cascades Volcano Observatory and the current Scientist-in-Charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Mike's area of specialization is volcano geodesy, which emphasizes the surface deformation and gravity fields associated with volcanic activity. This work involves the use of space-based technologies, like Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), as well as ground-based techniques, like microgravity surveys. Mike has taken part in studies on a variety of volcanic systems in the United States, including Mount St. Helens and other volcanoes of the Pacific Northwest, Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes in Hawaii, and the Yellowstone caldera. His recent work has focused on using gravity change over time to understand the character of the fluids that drive volcanic unrest, and also on the potential of satellite data to improve forecasts of future changes in volcanic activity.
Professional Experience
U.S. Geological Survey - Yellowstone Volcano Observatory: Scientist-in-Charge (2017 - present)
U.S. Geological Survey – Cascades Volcano Observatory: Research Geophysicist (2015 - present)
U.S. Geological Survey – Hawaiian Volcano Observatory: Research Geophysicist (2005 - 2015)
U.S. Geological Survey – Cascades Volcano Observatory: Research Geophysicist (2002 - 2005)
Department of Geology, Clark College (Vancouver, Washington): Instructor (2004)
Arizona State University, Department of Geological Sciences: Graduate Teaching/Research Assoc. (1997 - 2001)
Education and Certifications
Arizona State University: Ph.D. (2001), Geological Sciences
University of California, Davis: B.S. (1997), Geology
Affiliations and Memberships*
American Geophysical Union (AGU)
Geological Society of America (GSA)
International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior (IAVCEI)
Honors and Awards
Fellow, Geological Society of America, 2021
Science and Products
Map of Norris Geyser Basin showing the locations of major subbasins, roads and trails, and Nuphar Lake.
Animated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
Animated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser BasinHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022. Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow from thermal features on the east side of Porcelain Bas
Animated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
Animated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser BasinHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022. Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow from thermal features on the east side of Porcelain Bas
aerial view of Old Faithful erupting with new thermal features at yellowstone overlayed
Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!
Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!Geysers and hot springs are some of the most dynamic geologic features on the planet. They are always changing and sometimes that change happens in places where we can see and appreciate it. This has been the case on Geyser Hill, near Old Faithful, in Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!
Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!Geysers and hot springs are some of the most dynamic geologic features on the planet. They are always changing and sometimes that change happens in places where we can see and appreciate it. This has been the case on Geyser Hill, near Old Faithful, in Yellowstone National Park.
Earthquake Lake, which formed when the Madison River was blocked by a landslide that occurred as a consequence of the Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. The lake inundated existing forest, now marked by standing dead trees in the lake water. The landslide scar is visible on the side of the mountain at the far end of the lake.
Earthquake Lake, which formed when the Madison River was blocked by a landslide that occurred as a consequence of the Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. The lake inundated existing forest, now marked by standing dead trees in the lake water. The landslide scar is visible on the side of the mountain at the far end of the lake.
Old Faithful, one of the icons of Yellowstone National Park and probably the most famous geyser in the world. But how faithful is it really? That's the question we're going to tackle in this June 1, 2023 update from the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Old Faithful, one of the icons of Yellowstone National Park and probably the most famous geyser in the world. But how faithful is it really? That's the question we're going to tackle in this June 1, 2023 update from the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Map of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone region
Map of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone regionMap of continuous Global Positioning System (GPS), semipermanent GPS, borehole strainmeters, and borehole tiltmeters that provide surface deformation monitoring capability in and around Yellowstone National Park. Red line denotes boundary of Yellowstone Caldera.
Map of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone region
Map of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone regionMap of continuous Global Positioning System (GPS), semipermanent GPS, borehole strainmeters, and borehole tiltmeters that provide surface deformation monitoring capability in and around Yellowstone National Park. Red line denotes boundary of Yellowstone Caldera.
Looking northwest from the south end of the Norris Back Basin. The ...
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023May is traditionally the start of the field season and plans are underway to strengthen monitoring networks, collect data, and conduct research to better understand volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, outlines upcoming projects in this YVO monthly video update for May 1, 2023.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023May is traditionally the start of the field season and plans are underway to strengthen monitoring networks, collect data, and conduct research to better understand volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, outlines upcoming projects in this YVO monthly video update for May 1, 2023.
Front cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual report
Front cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual reportFront cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual report, which includes a summary of earthquake, deformation, and geyser activity, as well as research investigations and other information.
Front cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual report
Front cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual reportFront cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual report, which includes a summary of earthquake, deformation, and geyser activity, as well as research investigations and other information.
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National ParkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature measured at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park on the east side of Yellowstone Caldera. A, Map of soil carbon dioxide flux simulated based on measurements made at the black dots in September 2022. B, Map of soil temperature at a depth of 20 centimeters (8 inches).
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National ParkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature measured at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park on the east side of Yellowstone Caldera. A, Map of soil carbon dioxide flux simulated based on measurements made at the black dots in September 2022. B, Map of soil temperature at a depth of 20 centimeters (8 inches).
Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH
Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pHDistribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH (modified and updated from Nordstrom et al., 2009). There are two distinct groupings: one is more acidic, and the other neutral to basic.
Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH
Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pHDistribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH (modified and updated from Nordstrom et al., 2009). There are two distinct groupings: one is more acidic, and the other neutral to basic.
Photo of marmot standing on its hind legs, in Yellowstone National Park
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023Do animals prank humans? It sometimes feels that way, says Yellowstone Volcano Observatory’s scientist-in-charge Mike Poland. Mike shows some of the ways animals have “interacted” with monitoring equipment in this April 1, 2023 monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023Do animals prank humans? It sometimes feels that way, says Yellowstone Volcano Observatory’s scientist-in-charge Mike Poland. Mike shows some of the ways animals have “interacted” with monitoring equipment in this April 1, 2023 monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano.
image related to volcanoes. See description
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, March 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, March 1, 2023Could an external event trigger a Yellowstone eruption? No, says Yellowstone Volcano Observatory’s scientist-in-charge Mike Poland, that’s not how volcanoes work. Most of the pressure that drives a volcano toward eruption comes from within, from the exsolution of gases in the magmatic system.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, March 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, March 1, 2023Could an external event trigger a Yellowstone eruption? No, says Yellowstone Volcano Observatory’s scientist-in-charge Mike Poland, that’s not how volcanoes work. Most of the pressure that drives a volcano toward eruption comes from within, from the exsolution of gases in the magmatic system.
Frying Pan Lake (also called Waimangu Cauldron), in New Zealand, sits within Echo Crater, which formed during the 1886 eruption of Tarawera. A hydrothermal explosion from the crater in 1917 resulted in the formation of the hot spring "lake" by 1918.
Frying Pan Lake (also called Waimangu Cauldron), in New Zealand, sits within Echo Crater, which formed during the 1886 eruption of Tarawera. A hydrothermal explosion from the crater in 1917 resulted in the formation of the hot spring "lake" by 1918.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Feb 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Feb 1, 2023Winter has arrived in the Yellowstone region. The deep snow and cold temperatures are harsh for animals, harsh for humans, and also harsh for volcano monitoring equipment.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Feb 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Feb 1, 2023Winter has arrived in the Yellowstone region. The deep snow and cold temperatures are harsh for animals, harsh for humans, and also harsh for volcano monitoring equipment.
Geology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National Park
Geology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National ParkGeology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National Park. Sketch at the top was made by geologist William Henry Holmes in 1878 and correctly identifies Cretaceous sediments overlain by much younger rhyolite rocks, including fine ash deposits (“tufa”). The photo at the bottom shows the same outcrop as viewed from Mammoth Hot Springs (USGS
Geology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National Park
Geology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National ParkGeology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National Park. Sketch at the top was made by geologist William Henry Holmes in 1878 and correctly identifies Cretaceous sediments overlain by much younger rhyolite rocks, including fine ash deposits (“tufa”). The photo at the bottom shows the same outcrop as viewed from Mammoth Hot Springs (USGS
YVO scientist replaces batteries in a temperature logger (Norris Basin)
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, provides an overview of 2022 events and December activity in this monthly update for January 1, 2023.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, provides an overview of 2022 events and December activity in this monthly update for January 1, 2023.
Map of seismicity (red circles) in the Yellowstone region during 2022. Gray lines are roads, black dashed line shows the caldera boundary, Yellowstone National Park is outlined by black dot-dashed line, and gray dashed lines denote state boundaries.
Map of seismicity (red circles) in the Yellowstone region during 2022. Gray lines are roads, black dashed line shows the caldera boundary, Yellowstone National Park is outlined by black dot-dashed line, and gray dashed lines denote state boundaries.
Color photograph of lava flow front
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano (December 1, 2022)
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano (December 1, 2022)Just a few days ago, Mauna Loa, the tallest active volcano on the planet, started erupting for the first time in 38 years.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano (December 1, 2022)
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano (December 1, 2022)Just a few days ago, Mauna Loa, the tallest active volcano on the planet, started erupting for the first time in 38 years.
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain Hotel
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain HotelGoogle Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin showing the site of the Fountain Hotel and nearby Leather Pool, which was tapped to provide a source of hot water for the hotel.
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain Hotel
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain HotelGoogle Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin showing the site of the Fountain Hotel and nearby Leather Pool, which was tapped to provide a source of hot water for the hotel.
Obsidian rock from Obsidian Cliff, Yellowstone National Park....
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022November is Native American Heritage Month. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, talks about Indigenous peoples in the Yellowstone region and describes Yellowstone’s recent seismic, deformation, and geyser activity in this November 1, 2022 monthly update.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022November is Native American Heritage Month. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, talks about Indigenous peoples in the Yellowstone region and describes Yellowstone’s recent seismic, deformation, and geyser activity in this November 1, 2022 monthly update.
A bubble bursts at Artist Paintpots, in Yellowstone National Park
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for October 1, 2022
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for October 1, 2022Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, describes activity at Yellowstone in this monthly update for October 1, 2022.
The update comes to you from Artist Paintpots in Yellowstone National Park. The paintpots are acid sulfate springs, one of three different types of thermal features in Yellowstone.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for October 1, 2022
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for October 1, 2022Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, describes activity at Yellowstone in this monthly update for October 1, 2022.
The update comes to you from Artist Paintpots in Yellowstone National Park. The paintpots are acid sulfate springs, one of three different types of thermal features in Yellowstone.
Interseismic quiescence and triggered slip of active normal faults of Kīlauea Volcano’s south flank during 2001-2018 Interseismic quiescence and triggered slip of active normal faults of Kīlauea Volcano’s south flank during 2001-2018
Don Swanson: A field volcanology career worth celebrating Don Swanson: A field volcanology career worth celebrating
The 2017-19 activity at Mount Agung in Bali (Indonesia): Intense unrest, monitoring, crisis response, evacuation, and eruption The 2017-19 activity at Mount Agung in Bali (Indonesia): Intense unrest, monitoring, crisis response, evacuation, and eruption
Modulation of seismic activity in Kīlauea’s Upper East Rift Zone by summit pressurization Modulation of seismic activity in Kīlauea’s Upper East Rift Zone by summit pressurization
Assessing seasonal changes in microgravity at Yellowstone caldera Assessing seasonal changes in microgravity at Yellowstone caldera
A cautionary tale of topography and tilt from Kilauea Caldera A cautionary tale of topography and tilt from Kilauea Caldera
Field volcanology: A tribute to the distinguished career of Don Swanson Field volcanology: A tribute to the distinguished career of Don Swanson
Geochemical evolution of Keanakāko‘i Tephra, Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai‘i Geochemical evolution of Keanakāko‘i Tephra, Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai‘i
Communication strategy of the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory during the lava-flow crisis of 2014–2015, Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii Communication strategy of the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory during the lava-flow crisis of 2014–2015, Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii
Dikes in the Koaʻe fault system, and the Koaʻe-east rift zone structural grain at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawaii Dikes in the Koaʻe fault system, and the Koaʻe-east rift zone structural grain at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawaii
A new perspective on the 19th century golden pumice deposit of Kilauea volcano A new perspective on the 19th century golden pumice deposit of Kilauea volcano
Space-based imaging radar studies of U.S. volcanoes Space-based imaging radar studies of U.S. volcanoes
Science and Products
Map of Norris Geyser Basin showing the locations of major subbasins, roads and trails, and Nuphar Lake.
Map of Norris Geyser Basin showing the locations of major subbasins, roads and trails, and Nuphar Lake.
Animated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
Animated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser BasinHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022. Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow from thermal features on the east side of Porcelain Bas
Animated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
Animated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser BasinHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022. Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow from thermal features on the east side of Porcelain Bas
aerial view of Old Faithful erupting with new thermal features at yellowstone overlayed
Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!
Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!Geysers and hot springs are some of the most dynamic geologic features on the planet. They are always changing and sometimes that change happens in places where we can see and appreciate it. This has been the case on Geyser Hill, near Old Faithful, in Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!
Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!Geysers and hot springs are some of the most dynamic geologic features on the planet. They are always changing and sometimes that change happens in places where we can see and appreciate it. This has been the case on Geyser Hill, near Old Faithful, in Yellowstone National Park.
Earthquake Lake, which formed when the Madison River was blocked by a landslide that occurred as a consequence of the Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. The lake inundated existing forest, now marked by standing dead trees in the lake water. The landslide scar is visible on the side of the mountain at the far end of the lake.
Earthquake Lake, which formed when the Madison River was blocked by a landslide that occurred as a consequence of the Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. The lake inundated existing forest, now marked by standing dead trees in the lake water. The landslide scar is visible on the side of the mountain at the far end of the lake.
Old Faithful, one of the icons of Yellowstone National Park and probably the most famous geyser in the world. But how faithful is it really? That's the question we're going to tackle in this June 1, 2023 update from the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Old Faithful, one of the icons of Yellowstone National Park and probably the most famous geyser in the world. But how faithful is it really? That's the question we're going to tackle in this June 1, 2023 update from the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Map of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone region
Map of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone regionMap of continuous Global Positioning System (GPS), semipermanent GPS, borehole strainmeters, and borehole tiltmeters that provide surface deformation monitoring capability in and around Yellowstone National Park. Red line denotes boundary of Yellowstone Caldera.
Map of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone region
Map of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone regionMap of continuous Global Positioning System (GPS), semipermanent GPS, borehole strainmeters, and borehole tiltmeters that provide surface deformation monitoring capability in and around Yellowstone National Park. Red line denotes boundary of Yellowstone Caldera.
Looking northwest from the south end of the Norris Back Basin. The ...
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023May is traditionally the start of the field season and plans are underway to strengthen monitoring networks, collect data, and conduct research to better understand volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, outlines upcoming projects in this YVO monthly video update for May 1, 2023.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023May is traditionally the start of the field season and plans are underway to strengthen monitoring networks, collect data, and conduct research to better understand volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, outlines upcoming projects in this YVO monthly video update for May 1, 2023.
Front cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual report
Front cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual reportFront cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual report, which includes a summary of earthquake, deformation, and geyser activity, as well as research investigations and other information.
Front cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual report
Front cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual reportFront cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory 2022 annual report, which includes a summary of earthquake, deformation, and geyser activity, as well as research investigations and other information.
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National ParkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature measured at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park on the east side of Yellowstone Caldera. A, Map of soil carbon dioxide flux simulated based on measurements made at the black dots in September 2022. B, Map of soil temperature at a depth of 20 centimeters (8 inches).
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National ParkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature measured at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park on the east side of Yellowstone Caldera. A, Map of soil carbon dioxide flux simulated based on measurements made at the black dots in September 2022. B, Map of soil temperature at a depth of 20 centimeters (8 inches).
Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH
Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pHDistribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH (modified and updated from Nordstrom et al., 2009). There are two distinct groupings: one is more acidic, and the other neutral to basic.
Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH
Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pHDistribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH (modified and updated from Nordstrom et al., 2009). There are two distinct groupings: one is more acidic, and the other neutral to basic.
Photo of marmot standing on its hind legs, in Yellowstone National Park
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023Do animals prank humans? It sometimes feels that way, says Yellowstone Volcano Observatory’s scientist-in-charge Mike Poland. Mike shows some of the ways animals have “interacted” with monitoring equipment in this April 1, 2023 monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023Do animals prank humans? It sometimes feels that way, says Yellowstone Volcano Observatory’s scientist-in-charge Mike Poland. Mike shows some of the ways animals have “interacted” with monitoring equipment in this April 1, 2023 monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano.
image related to volcanoes. See description
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, March 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, March 1, 2023Could an external event trigger a Yellowstone eruption? No, says Yellowstone Volcano Observatory’s scientist-in-charge Mike Poland, that’s not how volcanoes work. Most of the pressure that drives a volcano toward eruption comes from within, from the exsolution of gases in the magmatic system.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, March 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, March 1, 2023Could an external event trigger a Yellowstone eruption? No, says Yellowstone Volcano Observatory’s scientist-in-charge Mike Poland, that’s not how volcanoes work. Most of the pressure that drives a volcano toward eruption comes from within, from the exsolution of gases in the magmatic system.
Frying Pan Lake (also called Waimangu Cauldron), in New Zealand, sits within Echo Crater, which formed during the 1886 eruption of Tarawera. A hydrothermal explosion from the crater in 1917 resulted in the formation of the hot spring "lake" by 1918.
Frying Pan Lake (also called Waimangu Cauldron), in New Zealand, sits within Echo Crater, which formed during the 1886 eruption of Tarawera. A hydrothermal explosion from the crater in 1917 resulted in the formation of the hot spring "lake" by 1918.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Feb 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Feb 1, 2023Winter has arrived in the Yellowstone region. The deep snow and cold temperatures are harsh for animals, harsh for humans, and also harsh for volcano monitoring equipment.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Feb 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Feb 1, 2023Winter has arrived in the Yellowstone region. The deep snow and cold temperatures are harsh for animals, harsh for humans, and also harsh for volcano monitoring equipment.
Geology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National Park
Geology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National ParkGeology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National Park. Sketch at the top was made by geologist William Henry Holmes in 1878 and correctly identifies Cretaceous sediments overlain by much younger rhyolite rocks, including fine ash deposits (“tufa”). The photo at the bottom shows the same outcrop as viewed from Mammoth Hot Springs (USGS
Geology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National Park
Geology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National ParkGeology of the unconformity on Mount Everts in Yellowstone National Park. Sketch at the top was made by geologist William Henry Holmes in 1878 and correctly identifies Cretaceous sediments overlain by much younger rhyolite rocks, including fine ash deposits (“tufa”). The photo at the bottom shows the same outcrop as viewed from Mammoth Hot Springs (USGS
YVO scientist replaces batteries in a temperature logger (Norris Basin)
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, provides an overview of 2022 events and December activity in this monthly update for January 1, 2023.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, provides an overview of 2022 events and December activity in this monthly update for January 1, 2023.
Map of seismicity (red circles) in the Yellowstone region during 2022. Gray lines are roads, black dashed line shows the caldera boundary, Yellowstone National Park is outlined by black dot-dashed line, and gray dashed lines denote state boundaries.
Map of seismicity (red circles) in the Yellowstone region during 2022. Gray lines are roads, black dashed line shows the caldera boundary, Yellowstone National Park is outlined by black dot-dashed line, and gray dashed lines denote state boundaries.
Color photograph of lava flow front
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano (December 1, 2022)
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano (December 1, 2022)Just a few days ago, Mauna Loa, the tallest active volcano on the planet, started erupting for the first time in 38 years.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano (December 1, 2022)
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano (December 1, 2022)Just a few days ago, Mauna Loa, the tallest active volcano on the planet, started erupting for the first time in 38 years.
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain Hotel
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain HotelGoogle Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin showing the site of the Fountain Hotel and nearby Leather Pool, which was tapped to provide a source of hot water for the hotel.
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain Hotel
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain HotelGoogle Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin showing the site of the Fountain Hotel and nearby Leather Pool, which was tapped to provide a source of hot water for the hotel.
Obsidian rock from Obsidian Cliff, Yellowstone National Park....
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022November is Native American Heritage Month. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, talks about Indigenous peoples in the Yellowstone region and describes Yellowstone’s recent seismic, deformation, and geyser activity in this November 1, 2022 monthly update.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022November is Native American Heritage Month. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, talks about Indigenous peoples in the Yellowstone region and describes Yellowstone’s recent seismic, deformation, and geyser activity in this November 1, 2022 monthly update.
A bubble bursts at Artist Paintpots, in Yellowstone National Park
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for October 1, 2022
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for October 1, 2022Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, describes activity at Yellowstone in this monthly update for October 1, 2022.
The update comes to you from Artist Paintpots in Yellowstone National Park. The paintpots are acid sulfate springs, one of three different types of thermal features in Yellowstone.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for October 1, 2022
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for October 1, 2022Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, describes activity at Yellowstone in this monthly update for October 1, 2022.
The update comes to you from Artist Paintpots in Yellowstone National Park. The paintpots are acid sulfate springs, one of three different types of thermal features in Yellowstone.
Interseismic quiescence and triggered slip of active normal faults of Kīlauea Volcano’s south flank during 2001-2018 Interseismic quiescence and triggered slip of active normal faults of Kīlauea Volcano’s south flank during 2001-2018
Don Swanson: A field volcanology career worth celebrating Don Swanson: A field volcanology career worth celebrating
The 2017-19 activity at Mount Agung in Bali (Indonesia): Intense unrest, monitoring, crisis response, evacuation, and eruption The 2017-19 activity at Mount Agung in Bali (Indonesia): Intense unrest, monitoring, crisis response, evacuation, and eruption
Modulation of seismic activity in Kīlauea’s Upper East Rift Zone by summit pressurization Modulation of seismic activity in Kīlauea’s Upper East Rift Zone by summit pressurization
Assessing seasonal changes in microgravity at Yellowstone caldera Assessing seasonal changes in microgravity at Yellowstone caldera
A cautionary tale of topography and tilt from Kilauea Caldera A cautionary tale of topography and tilt from Kilauea Caldera
Field volcanology: A tribute to the distinguished career of Don Swanson Field volcanology: A tribute to the distinguished career of Don Swanson
Geochemical evolution of Keanakāko‘i Tephra, Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai‘i Geochemical evolution of Keanakāko‘i Tephra, Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai‘i
Communication strategy of the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory during the lava-flow crisis of 2014–2015, Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii Communication strategy of the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory during the lava-flow crisis of 2014–2015, Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii
Dikes in the Koaʻe fault system, and the Koaʻe-east rift zone structural grain at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawaii Dikes in the Koaʻe fault system, and the Koaʻe-east rift zone structural grain at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawaii
A new perspective on the 19th century golden pumice deposit of Kilauea volcano A new perspective on the 19th century golden pumice deposit of Kilauea volcano
Space-based imaging radar studies of U.S. volcanoes Space-based imaging radar studies of U.S. volcanoes
*Disclaimer: Listing outside positions with professional scientific organizations on this Staff Profile are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of those professional scientific organizations or their activities by the USGS, Department of the Interior, or U.S. Government