Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin looking to the north from the old roadbed. Nuphar Lake is off the photograph to the right. Cool-water seeps into Porcelain Basin are clearly evident in the thermal image and appear to flow underground from Nuphar Lake. USGS photos by Mike Poland, July 1, 2023.
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
![Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/FLIR%20image.jpg?itok=HGflB-6E)
Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin looking to the north from the old roadbed. Nuphar Lake is off the photograph to the right. Cool-water seeps into Porcelain Basin are clearly evident in the thermal image and appear to flow underground from Nuphar Lake. USGS photos by Mike Poland, July 1, 2023.
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.
![High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Nuphar%20satellite%20images.jpg?itok=WZt8J5OI)
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
linkHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 (left), WorldView-3 on July 7, 2016 (middle), and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022 (right). Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow f
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
linkHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 (left), WorldView-3 on July 7, 2016 (middle), and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022 (right). Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow f
![Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone! aerial view of Old Faithful erupting with new thermal features at yellowstone overlayed](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/yvo-july-2.png?itok=mNm53omO)
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.
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](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/YVO%20deformation%20network.jpg?itok=FRWb6RK9)
Map 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 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.
![Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/figure%2032%20-%20Tern%20Lake%20soil%20CO2%20and%20temp.jpg?itok=UxWLdMfg)
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
linkSoil 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
linkSoil 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).
![Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023 Looking northwest from the south end of the Norris Back Basin. The ...](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/vhp_img91.jpg?itok=dr3kCcKO)
May 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.
May 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](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/cover_page_2023_YVO_annual_report.jpg?itok=pBNGv9cB)
Front 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, which includes a summary of earthquake, deformation, and geyser activity, as well as research investigations and other information.
![Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/pH%20abundance%20figure.jpg?itok=dgBPflgL)
Distribution 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 (modified and updated from Nordstrom et al., 2009). There are two distinct groupings: one is more acidic, and the other neutral to basic.
![Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023 Photo of marmot standing on its hind legs, in Yellowstone National Park](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/8238491031_4e665fb6d3_5k.jpg?itok=YYi5Sl9T)
Do 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.
Do 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, March 1, 2023 image related to volcanoes. See description](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/img7535.jpg?itok=wZ1givvZ)
Could 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.
Could 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 for Feb 1, 2023 Bison at Dragon's Mouth Spring, Yellowstone National Park](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/thumbnails/image/15243026560_09bb96c639_k.jpg?itok=Cxaca81r)
Winter 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.
Winter 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](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/unconformity%20sketch%20and%20photo.jpg?itok=LgjdtKfN)
Geology 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. 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
![Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023 YVO scientist replaces batteries in a temperature logger (Norris Basin)](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/52081690912_61d44d5ee3_o_EDITED.jpg?itok=D3ZBxzsn)
Mike 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.
Mike 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 (December 1, 2022) Color photograph of lava flow front](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/multimediaFile-3722.jpg?itok=dDZT62m_)
Just a few days ago, Mauna Loa, the tallest active volcano on the planet, started erupting for the first time in 38 years.
Just a few days ago, Mauna Loa, the tallest active volcano on the planet, started erupting for the first time in 38 years.
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.
![Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain Hotel](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Google%20Earth%20map%20of%20Fountain%20Hotel.jpg?itok=wxbEKZNF)
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain Hotel
linkGoogle 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
linkGoogle 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.
![Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022 Obsidian rock from Obsidian Cliff, Yellowstone National Park....](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/vhp_img110.jpg?itok=a1asncYu)
November 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.
November 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 October 1, 2022 A bubble bursts at Artist Paintpots, in Yellowstone National Park](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Artists%20Paintpots%202_EDITED_0.jpg?itok=AAetGXIr)
Mike 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.
Mike 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.
Onset and evolution of Kilauea’s 2018 flank eruption and summit collapse from continuous gravity
Quantifying eruptive and background seismicity, deformation, degassing, and thermal emissions at volcanoes in the United States during 1978–2020
Insight into the May 2015 summit inflation event at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai‘i
Applications of bistatic radar to volcano topography – A review of 10 years of TanDEM-X
The cascading origin of the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and implications for future forecasting
Volcano geodesy: A critical tool for assessing the state of volcanoes and their potential for hazardous eruptive activity
Forecasting, detecting, and tracking volcanic eruptions from space
Using conceptual models to relate multiparameter satellite data to subsurface volcanic processes in Latin America
Post-collapse gravity increase at the summit of Kīlauea Volcano, Hawaiʻi
Magma reservoir failure and the onset of caldera collapse at Kīlauea volcano in 2018
Partly cloudy with a chance of lava flows: Forecasting volcanic eruptions in the 21st century
Interseismic quiescence and triggered slip of active normal faults of Kīlauea Volcano’s south flank during 2001-2018
Science and Products
![Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/FLIR%20image.jpg?itok=HGflB-6E)
Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin looking to the north from the old roadbed. Nuphar Lake is off the photograph to the right. Cool-water seeps into Porcelain Basin are clearly evident in the thermal image and appear to flow underground from Nuphar Lake. USGS photos by Mike Poland, July 1, 2023.
Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin looking to the north from the old roadbed. Nuphar Lake is off the photograph to the right. Cool-water seeps into Porcelain Basin are clearly evident in the thermal image and appear to flow underground from Nuphar Lake. USGS photos by Mike Poland, July 1, 2023.
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.
![High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Nuphar%20satellite%20images.jpg?itok=WZt8J5OI)
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
linkHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 (left), WorldView-3 on July 7, 2016 (middle), and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022 (right). Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow f
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
linkHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 (left), WorldView-3 on July 7, 2016 (middle), and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022 (right). Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow f
![Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone! aerial view of Old Faithful erupting with new thermal features at yellowstone overlayed](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/yvo-july-2.png?itok=mNm53omO)
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.
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](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/YVO%20deformation%20network.jpg?itok=FRWb6RK9)
Map 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 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.
![Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/figure%2032%20-%20Tern%20Lake%20soil%20CO2%20and%20temp.jpg?itok=UxWLdMfg)
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
linkSoil 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
linkSoil 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).
![Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023 Looking northwest from the south end of the Norris Back Basin. The ...](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/vhp_img91.jpg?itok=dr3kCcKO)
May 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.
May 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](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/cover_page_2023_YVO_annual_report.jpg?itok=pBNGv9cB)
Front 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, which includes a summary of earthquake, deformation, and geyser activity, as well as research investigations and other information.
![Distribution of hydrothermal features in Yellowstone as a function of their pH](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/pH%20abundance%20figure.jpg?itok=dgBPflgL)
Distribution 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 (modified and updated from Nordstrom et al., 2009). There are two distinct groupings: one is more acidic, and the other neutral to basic.
![Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, April 1, 2023 Photo of marmot standing on its hind legs, in Yellowstone National Park](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/8238491031_4e665fb6d3_5k.jpg?itok=YYi5Sl9T)
Do 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.
Do 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, March 1, 2023 image related to volcanoes. See description](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/img7535.jpg?itok=wZ1givvZ)
Could 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.
Could 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 for Feb 1, 2023 Bison at Dragon's Mouth Spring, Yellowstone National Park](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/thumbnails/image/15243026560_09bb96c639_k.jpg?itok=Cxaca81r)
Winter 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.
Winter 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](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/unconformity%20sketch%20and%20photo.jpg?itok=LgjdtKfN)
Geology 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. 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
![Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for Jan 1, 2023 YVO scientist replaces batteries in a temperature logger (Norris Basin)](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/52081690912_61d44d5ee3_o_EDITED.jpg?itok=D3ZBxzsn)
Mike 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.
Mike 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 (December 1, 2022) Color photograph of lava flow front](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/multimediaFile-3722.jpg?itok=dDZT62m_)
Just a few days ago, Mauna Loa, the tallest active volcano on the planet, started erupting for the first time in 38 years.
Just a few days ago, Mauna Loa, the tallest active volcano on the planet, started erupting for the first time in 38 years.
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.
![Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain Hotel](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Google%20Earth%20map%20of%20Fountain%20Hotel.jpg?itok=wxbEKZNF)
Google Earth image of the north part of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, showing the site of the Fountain Hotel
linkGoogle 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
linkGoogle 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.
![Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano for November 1, 2022 Obsidian rock from Obsidian Cliff, Yellowstone National Park....](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/vhp_img110.jpg?itok=a1asncYu)
November 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.
November 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 October 1, 2022 A bubble bursts at Artist Paintpots, in Yellowstone National Park](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Artists%20Paintpots%202_EDITED_0.jpg?itok=AAetGXIr)
Mike 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.
Mike 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.
Onset and evolution of Kilauea’s 2018 flank eruption and summit collapse from continuous gravity
Quantifying eruptive and background seismicity, deformation, degassing, and thermal emissions at volcanoes in the United States during 1978–2020
Insight into the May 2015 summit inflation event at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai‘i
Applications of bistatic radar to volcano topography – A review of 10 years of TanDEM-X
The cascading origin of the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and implications for future forecasting
Volcano geodesy: A critical tool for assessing the state of volcanoes and their potential for hazardous eruptive activity
Forecasting, detecting, and tracking volcanic eruptions from space
Using conceptual models to relate multiparameter satellite data to subsurface volcanic processes in Latin America
Post-collapse gravity increase at the summit of Kīlauea Volcano, Hawaiʻi
Magma reservoir failure and the onset of caldera collapse at Kīlauea volcano in 2018
Partly cloudy with a chance of lava flows: Forecasting volcanic eruptions in the 21st century
Interseismic quiescence and triggered slip of active normal faults of Kīlauea Volcano’s south flank during 2001-2018
*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