Proposal to install 4 volcano monitoring spots on Mount Hood

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) The U.S. Geological Survey and the Cascades Volcano Observatory hope to install four volcano monitoring stations on the upper flanks of Mount Hood.

Scientists say that although it's not erupting, Mount Hood signals that it is an active volcano.

Oregon's signature peak produces frequent earthquakes, and steam and volcanic gases are emitted in the area around Crater Rock near the summit. The proposed stations would enhance scientists' ability to detect subtle signals beneath the volcano and help determine whether it poses any threat of imminent eruption.

In a 2005 national volcano early warning assessment, the USGS designated Mount Hood as a "very high threat" volcano, due to its history of eruptions, current activity and closeness to downstream communities. The mountain is about 50 miles east of Portland.

The stations would be in a wilderness area, away from trails. The Mount Hood National Forest is accepting comments on the proposal through April 27.

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