SCEC Hosts Mini Field Trip to the Sierra Madre Fault

Geodesist Ken Hudnut (USGS and SCEC) and Engineering Geologist Scott Lindvall (William Lettis & Associates, Inc., and SCEC) led a field trip for La Cañada High School students to the Sierra Madre fault zone on March 13, 1998. Participating students are enrolled in "Seismology Institute," a component of the La Cañada High School's "Institutes for the 21st Century." The Institutes program is unique, involving scientists and professionals from neighboring communities in curriculum-enhancing activities that help students learn through field and hands-on experiences.

The Seismology Institute has recently provided students with the opportunity to build seismometers and use them to report on local seismicity. They will present their findings at a special showcase to be hosted by the school in early May. For more information on the Institutes program, contact Director Emma Sanchez at 818-952-4275.

USC earth sciences graduate student Matthew Ragan and SCEC Outreach Specialist Sara Tekula accompanied the students, teachers and leaders on the field trip. More information on the Sierra Madre fault zone can be found in two articles in this newsletter (see "Featured Fault" and the interview with featured researcher, Dr. Charles Rubin).