Volcano stratigraphy and mapping

Karen Fontijn, Benjamin Bernard, Drew T Downs, Judy T Fierstein, Guido Giordano, Graham Leonard, Natalia Pardo, Patricia Sruoga, Takehiko Suzuki

Volcano-geologic mapping and stratigraphic reconstructions provide important information toward understanding patterns of edifice construction and destruction of volcanic systems, their eruptive histories and recurrence rates, and magmatic evolution and plumbing systems, all of which are required to make informed hazard assessments. Geologic mapping of volcanic terrains also provides context in the search for and identification of natural resources, including geothermal reservoirs and magmatic-related ore deposits, and can provide useful background for communication and outreach. Most volcano-geologic maps and chrono-stratigraphic frameworks are based on a systematic lithostratigraphic approach and are constructed using an iterative process whereby field observations and mapping alternate with acquisition of rock compositional and geochronological data. Modern technological and analytical tools have greatly advanced geochemical and geochronological data acquisition and accuracy, while some technologies have provided new useful tools for fieldwork, including in poorly accessible environments.