Cascades Volcano Observatory facts for kids
_cropped.JPG) Front of the main building of the David A. Johnston Cascades Volcano Observatory |
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| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | 1980 |
| Headquarters | Vancouver, Washington, USA |
| Website | https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/observatories/cvo/ |
The David A. Johnston Cascades Volcano Observatory (CVO) is a special science center. It watches over volcanoes in the northern Cascade Range. This observatory helps keep people safe by studying volcanoes.
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What is the Cascades Volcano Observatory?
The Cascades Volcano Observatory (CVO) is a science office. It is part of the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The USGS is a science agency of the United States government. The CVO's main job is to monitor volcanoes. This means they keep a close eye on them. They look for signs that a volcano might erupt.
Where is the CVO located?
The CVO is located in Vancouver, Washington. This city is near Portland, Oregon. From their office, scientists can easily reach the volcanoes they study.
Why was the CVO created?
The CVO was started in the summer of 1980. This was right after the big eruption of Mount St. Helens. That eruption was a powerful event. It showed how important it was to watch volcanoes closely. Scientists needed a dedicated place to study and monitor these powerful natural forces.
Who was David A. Johnston?
The observatory is named after David A. Johnston. He was a brave volcanologist. A volcanologist is a scientist who studies volcanoes. David Johnston worked for the USGS. He was studying Mount St. Helens when it erupted on May 18, 1980. Sadly, he was caught in the eruption. Naming the observatory after him honors his work and sacrifice.
Where does the CVO work?
The CVO monitors volcanoes in several states. Its main area covers Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. These states have many volcanoes in the Cascade Range.
Other Volcano Observatories
Before 2012, the CVO also watched volcanoes in northern California. These included famous volcanoes like Mount Shasta and Lassen Peak. But now, these volcanoes are watched by another observatory. It is called the California Volcano Observatory (CalVO). CalVO was created in February 2012. It is based in Menlo Park, California. CalVO studies volcanoes all over California and Nevada. This helps make sure all volcanoes in the western U.S. are monitored.
