Earthquake Predictor

Dr. J Ramón Arrowsmith, associate professor in the School of Earth and Space Exploration, was recently appointed by the United States Department of the Interior to serve on the U.S Geological Survey’s (USGS) National Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Council.

Arrowsmith, who conducts research in active tectonics, quantitative structural geology and geomorphology, was happily surprised by the appointment. “I am honored to be in the company of the top earthquake scientists in the United States. We have the responsibility to provide review for earthquake hazard assessment such as the recently completed Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast.”

The USGS is responsible for providing notification of earthquakes to enhance public safety through effective forecasts based on the best possible scientific information. The Council was established in 1976 with the purpose of advising the director of the USGS on the potential for future significant earthquakes.

Nikki Staab (April 2008)