Building Volcano Monitoring Capacity in Hawaii
GrantID: 2296
Grant Funding Amount Low: $3,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $3,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Understanding Hawaii's Capacity Needs for Volcano Monitoring
Hawaii is home to some of the world’s most active volcanoes, including Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, which pose unique challenges for local communities. The increasing frequency of volcanic eruptions necessitates improved monitoring systems that can provide accurate predictions and timely alerts. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the last significant eruption of Kīlauea in 2018 resulted in extensive property damage and displacement of residents in the Puna District, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced capacity in volcanic monitoring and community preparedness.
Local communities, particularly those residing in close proximity to active volcanoes, face the brunt of the economic and emotional tolls of these natural phenomena. Communities such as Pāhoa, which is situated near the lava flow zones, often experience disruptions to their daily lives, damage to infrastructure, and a loss of tourism revenue. Emergency evacuation preparedness and real-time information sharing are crucial to help residents respond effectively during eruptions. Enhancing this capacity involves collaboration among local governments, emergency services, and research institutions.
The proposed project seeks to build a robust volcano monitoring system that combines scientific research with community engagement. Involving local emergency services in the planning and implementation stages will ensure that the monitoring systems are tailored to the specific needs and realities of Hawaii's communities. By fostering partnerships, the project aims to provide resources for accurate data collection and analysis, as well as direct communication networks that can alert residents to imminent threats.
This funding opportunity provides essential support for the costs associated with analytical work, data collection, and field activities. The goal is to develop an innovative monitoring system capable of delivering timely and actionable insights into volcanic activities. Projects funded through this initiative could cover expenses related to the installation of sensors and data collection equipment, as well as ongoing operational costs necessary for maintaining monitoring capabilities.
With successful implementation, this project aims to significantly enhance community resilience by providing real-time data that can inform evacuation routes, emergency preparedness plans, and public awareness campaigns. The integration of a centralized data platform will facilitate immediate information sharing among researchers, emergency responders, and residents, ultimately aiming to reduce the impact of volcanic eruptions on local populations.
Hawaii’s unique geographic landscape, characterized by its islands and active volcanic systems, sets it apart from other states in terms of its monitoring needs. Unlike areas in the continental United States, where seismic activities may not directly affect urban populations, in Hawaii, the direct risk of volcanic activity heavily influences community planning and environmental policies. The funding provided through this grant opportunity is specifically designed to address these state-centric needs, ensuring that Hawaii's communities are better protected against the threats posed by volcanic eruptions.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
