Tim Kane (WHOI) on the float rig supporting the OBS on Skilak Lake, Alaska. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Unveiling Earthquake History
Using geologic and seismic observations at Skilak Lake, Alaska to understand past seismic events
Lake sediments can unlock crucial information about past earthquakes, needed for seismic hazard modeling. USGS researchers and partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution deployed 10 seismographs in and around Skilak Lake, Alaska to learn more about past shaking events.
Understanding the timing, size, and location of past earthquakes is key for assessing seismic risks and creating hazard models. In earthquake prone regions like Southcentral Alaska, lake sediments are proving to be an especially reliable indicator of past seismic events.
![yellow boat is towed behind bigger boat in blue lake and mountains in background](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/full_width/public/media/images/IMG_2638.jpeg?itok=FiLTTdNT)
![Unveiling Earthquake History at Skilak Lake, Alaska](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/full_width/public/media/images/IMG_9108.jpeg?itok=LqS2wHTq)
Sediment cores from these lakes provide a detailed timeline of past seismic events. Geologists look for buried deposits from underwater landslides and turbidity flows triggered by earthquakes to determine when each event occurred.
To infer magnitudes and locations of older events, researchers need to know how lake basins respond to seismic waves arriving from different directions and earthquake sizes. The response of a lake basin to seismic shaking can be measured directly by installing seismographs in and around the basin.
![Unveiling Earthquake History at Skilak Lake, Alaska](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/full_width/public/media/images/IMG_9031.jpeg?itok=B2OpzrH1)
Combining the geologic and seismic observations enables researchers to extend the modern record of seismic events further back in time.
Instrument Deployment at Skilak Lake, Alaska
A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
The seismographs at the bottom of the lake were originally designed for use in the deep ocean. They weigh roughly 800 pounds and are typically deployed from large ships, so the research team needed to get creative to make them work for this effort. The scientists towed the seismographs to the lake and launched them from a flatbed trailer. On the water, they were supported by a float rig and towed by a small boat to the deployment locations where they were released and sank to the lake bottom. To recover them when the year is up, an acoustic pinger will be used to trigger the instruments to detach from an anchor.
At each land site, around 300 pounds of instrument components were transferred from the boat to shore, then carried to the sites. Installation involved digging holes for the post-hole seismometers and attaching a station box containing electronics and batteries.
![two people in red dry suits stand next to seismic equipment](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_2620.jpeg?itok=9ztGXH4Q)
![person with red life vest smiles for photo on boat in lake](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_2868.jpeg?itok=oNu4jyu6)
![two people in life jackets smile for a photo out on the water](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_2832.jpeg?itok=kDyiAL9y)
![man in green hat and blue jacket smiles for photo on boat](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_2774.jpeg?itok=pto9f2I7)
![scientists stand around yellow boat and red buoys on boat launch](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_2624.jpeg?itok=cgJ2DQ8j)
![two people in red dry suits prep buoy in yellow boat while in the water](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_2637.jpeg?itok=eoHSZey1)
![Small research boat and inflatable boat with person in it on a lake with snowcapped mountains in the background.](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_9112.jpeg?itok=-_LTmSsY)
![two people in red dry suits prepare buoys for deployment off of yellow raft](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_9034_0.jpeg?itok=pbLT194u)
![Three people on land near lake, digging](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_9089.jpeg?itok=R4gjfZn5)
![three people on boats in lake with snow covered mountains in background](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/storytelling_grid/public/media/images/IMG_9071.jpeg?itok=ezEIlf8T)
The data collected from these seismographs will offer invaluable insights into how basin shape, sediment types, earthquake size, and location influence shaking intensity. This can enhance seismic hazard models, leading to more accurate risk assessments and better overall preparedness.
![landscape of boat sitting in lake with forest and mountains in the background](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/full_width/public/media/images/IMG_6188.jpg?itok=dowGCLT-)
Related Content
Gridded Data from Multibeam Bathymetric Surveys of Eklutna, Kenai, and Skilak Lakes, Alaska
Tim Kane (WHOI) on the float rig supporting the OBS on Skilak Lake, Alaska. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
![two people in red dry suits stand next to seismic equipment](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2620.jpeg?itok=0XCW4W-o)
Hannah Brewer (WHOI), Peter Haeussler (USGS), and Tim Kane (WHOI) preparing the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground parking lot.
Hannah Brewer (WHOI), Peter Haeussler (USGS), and Tim Kane (WHOI) preparing the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground parking lot.
![A boat floats in bight blue lake with snow covered mountains in the background](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2582.jpeg?itok=YnxNEO9_)
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
![person in green jacket and woman in red drysuit prep equipment towed by car to be put into lake](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2622.jpeg?itok=xSTHg0hg)
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Nathan Miller (USGS) and Rob Witter (USGS) installing a post-hole seismometer. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Nathan Miller (USGS) and Rob Witter (USGS) installing a post-hole seismometer. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Nathan Miller (USGS) programs a land seismograph station. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Nathan Miller (USGS) programs a land seismograph station. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Installation of a post-hole seismometer. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Installation of a post-hole seismometer. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
R/V Lutris and the OBS are towed to the Upper Skilak Campground boat launch. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
R/V Lutris and the OBS are towed to the Upper Skilak Campground boat launch. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
The R/V Lutris on Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
The R/V Lutris on Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
The float rig supporting the OBS is towed to the deployment site on Skilak Lake with Hannah Brewer (WHOI) on board. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
The float rig supporting the OBS is towed to the deployment site on Skilak Lake with Hannah Brewer (WHOI) on board. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Peter Haeussler (USGS) during the USGS and WHOI collaboration to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Peter Haeussler (USGS) during the USGS and WHOI collaboration to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
![Two people maneuvering inflatable boat in lake with mountains and sky in background](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2777.jpeg?itok=or1NLJmV)
Brian Andrews (USGS) and Rob Witter (USGS) transfer an electronics and battery box to shore for a land station. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Brian Andrews (USGS) and Rob Witter (USGS) transfer an electronics and battery box to shore for a land station. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
![truck deploys boat into lake with seismic equipment](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2627.jpeg?itok=ttjxhAtc)
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
![scientists stand around yellow boat to launch off boat ramp into lake](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2625.jpeg?itok=MzXRrC56)
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Brian Andrews (USGS) and Nathan Miller (USGS) during fieldwork on Skilak Lake, Alaska to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Brian Andrews (USGS) and Nathan Miller (USGS) during fieldwork on Skilak Lake, Alaska to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Brian Andrews (USGS) pulling in Hannah Brewer (WHOI) during fieldwork on Skilak Lake, Alaska to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Brian Andrews (USGS) pulling in Hannah Brewer (WHOI) during fieldwork on Skilak Lake, Alaska to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Tim Kane (WHOI) on Skilak Lake, Alaska during field work with USGS to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Tim Kane (WHOI) on Skilak Lake, Alaska during field work with USGS to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Unravelling a 2300 year long sedimentary record of megathrust and intraslab earthquakes in proglacial Skilak Lake, south-central Alaska
Preliminary survey of modern glaciolacustrine sediments for earthquake-induced deformational structures, south-central Alaska
Deciphering Nature's Seismograph: How Sediments Record Past Earthquakes and Inform Future Hazard Assessments
People have been recording seismic activity for centuries. To assemble a detailed earthquake history of an area and understand how faults may behave in the future, however, scientists need to go further back in time—from several hundred to many thousands of years ago.
Related Content
Gridded Data from Multibeam Bathymetric Surveys of Eklutna, Kenai, and Skilak Lakes, Alaska
Tim Kane (WHOI) on the float rig supporting the OBS on Skilak Lake, Alaska. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Tim Kane (WHOI) on the float rig supporting the OBS on Skilak Lake, Alaska. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
![two people in red dry suits stand next to seismic equipment](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2620.jpeg?itok=0XCW4W-o)
Hannah Brewer (WHOI), Peter Haeussler (USGS), and Tim Kane (WHOI) preparing the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground parking lot.
Hannah Brewer (WHOI), Peter Haeussler (USGS), and Tim Kane (WHOI) preparing the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground parking lot.
![A boat floats in bight blue lake with snow covered mountains in the background](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2582.jpeg?itok=YnxNEO9_)
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
![person in green jacket and woman in red drysuit prep equipment towed by car to be put into lake](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2622.jpeg?itok=xSTHg0hg)
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Nathan Miller (USGS) and Rob Witter (USGS) installing a post-hole seismometer. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Nathan Miller (USGS) and Rob Witter (USGS) installing a post-hole seismometer. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Nathan Miller (USGS) programs a land seismograph station. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Nathan Miller (USGS) programs a land seismograph station. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Installation of a post-hole seismometer. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Installation of a post-hole seismometer. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
R/V Lutris and the OBS are towed to the Upper Skilak Campground boat launch. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
R/V Lutris and the OBS are towed to the Upper Skilak Campground boat launch. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
The R/V Lutris on Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
The R/V Lutris on Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
The float rig supporting the OBS is towed to the deployment site on Skilak Lake with Hannah Brewer (WHOI) on board. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
The float rig supporting the OBS is towed to the deployment site on Skilak Lake with Hannah Brewer (WHOI) on board. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Peter Haeussler (USGS) during the USGS and WHOI collaboration to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Peter Haeussler (USGS) during the USGS and WHOI collaboration to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
![Two people maneuvering inflatable boat in lake with mountains and sky in background](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2777.jpeg?itok=or1NLJmV)
Brian Andrews (USGS) and Rob Witter (USGS) transfer an electronics and battery box to shore for a land station. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Brian Andrews (USGS) and Rob Witter (USGS) transfer an electronics and battery box to shore for a land station. This is part of a USGS effort, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
![truck deploys boat into lake with seismic equipment](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2627.jpeg?itok=ttjxhAtc)
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
![scientists stand around yellow boat to launch off boat ramp into lake](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IMG_2625.jpeg?itok=MzXRrC56)
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Peter Haeussler (USGS), Brian Andrews (USGS), Hannah Brewer (WHOI), and Tim Kane (WHOI) prepare to launch the OBS float rig at the Upper Skilak Campground Boat Ramp. R/V Lutris (background) was used to tow the rig to the deployment sites.
Brian Andrews (USGS) and Nathan Miller (USGS) during fieldwork on Skilak Lake, Alaska to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Brian Andrews (USGS) and Nathan Miller (USGS) during fieldwork on Skilak Lake, Alaska to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Brian Andrews (USGS) pulling in Hannah Brewer (WHOI) during fieldwork on Skilak Lake, Alaska to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Brian Andrews (USGS) pulling in Hannah Brewer (WHOI) during fieldwork on Skilak Lake, Alaska to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Tim Kane (WHOI) on Skilak Lake, Alaska during field work with USGS to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Tim Kane (WHOI) on Skilak Lake, Alaska during field work with USGS to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. In May 2024, they deployed two seismographs on the bottom of the lake and eight seismographs on land around the lake. Each instrument will collect data there for about 1 year.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Skilak Lake, Alaska. A team of USGS scientists, in collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center, are aiming to create a record of past earthquakes from Skilak Lake on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
Unravelling a 2300 year long sedimentary record of megathrust and intraslab earthquakes in proglacial Skilak Lake, south-central Alaska
Preliminary survey of modern glaciolacustrine sediments for earthquake-induced deformational structures, south-central Alaska
Deciphering Nature's Seismograph: How Sediments Record Past Earthquakes and Inform Future Hazard Assessments
People have been recording seismic activity for centuries. To assemble a detailed earthquake history of an area and understand how faults may behave in the future, however, scientists need to go further back in time—from several hundred to many thousands of years ago.
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