Get to know CVO: David and D-Claw

At the Cascades Volcano Observatory, staff use technical skills and creativity to solve complex problems and innovate for the future. David uses algorithms to model different volcanic hazards to help emergency managers plan and prepare for eruptions. 

D-Claw is a revolutionary tool for hazard modeling because it creates a more realistic model of how flows behave by including solid-fluid feedbacks that occur during a flow. This enhancement improves previous modeling techniques and creates a more accurate picture of where the flows may go and how fast they will get there. The better the model, the more accurate and detailed information can be provided about where hazards will impact communities.

Development of D-Claw is always ongoing and improving. Current development is aimed at extending its capabilities to more general surface flow processes like landslide-generated tsunamis and post-wildfire debris flows. David’s work is impactful throughout the USGS Natural Hazard Mission Area, so we are extra lucky to have him here at CVO.