Geological research with undergraduate students on the island of Dominica, Lesser Antilles -: a progress report

We are presently conducting research on Dominica, involving undergraduate students to develop their scientific skills. The study of active volcanoes increased in the U.S. after the 1980 eruption of Mt. St. Helens, but no catastrophic eruptions have occurred in North America in the last two decades. This quiescence has resulted in students pursuing other paths, leading to a dearth of volcanologists. The volcanoes, however, remain potentially active. We are able to involve undergraduate students in field work on Dominica, as it is a peaceful and politically stable country. Dominica is of particular interest from the unique aspects of its deposits. For the students, Dominica poses additional benefits by exposing them to a different culture. Particular projects are of a suitable size and scope that undergraduate students can effectively tackle them. While this is ongoing work, we have provided the Dominican government with the first geological map of the island, which is providing a geological base for hazard management planning. Early water chemistry results indicate that source temperatures of some hot spring systems are increasing, whereas others are decreasing. Studies of ignimbrites record the petrologic and granulometric characteristics of Plinian-style eruptions on Dominica. This progress report, both on scientific results and student involvement, is encouraging. After the 2007 field season, about 40 students will have contributed to this work. We see contributions to our understanding of the magmatic and eruptive history of Dominica, more accurate assessment of future hazards and contributions to the scientific and personal growth of our students.