This article provides an overview of the sedimentary processes that occurred in the aftermath of the May 18, 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. Topics include the vast quantity of easily erodable volcanic deposits, high sedimentation rates downstream from the volcano, changes in drainage patterns caused by the debris avalanche that triggered the eruption, and some efforts to control the downstream ... Full description.

This article provides a brief introduction to the processes of weathering and erosion in desert environments. Topics include the differences in the way these processes proceed in wet and arid environments, the role of flash floods and debris flows in moving large amounts of material very quickly, the influence of bedrock type on sediment characteristics, and the decrease in particle size with increasing ... Full description.

This report contains true stories that illustrate how to survive (and how not to survive) a tsunami. It is meant for people who live, work, or play along coasts that tsunamis may strike. The stories are personal accounts selected from interviews with people who survived a Pacific Ocean tsunami generated by the magnitude 9.5 earthquake that occurred along the coast of Chile on May 22, 1960. Important ... Full description.

This fact sheet provides an overview of basic scientific facts about landslides. Topics include the different types of landslides, ways that they might be triggered, and how to lessen the effects of landslides on people and structures. A set of links to additional information and some suggested publications are provided. A downloadable, printable version is also available. Full description.

This fact sheet provides an overview of the hazards presented by landslides and debris flows, particluarly in wet weather conditions in landslide-prone areas. Topics include a discussion of the characteristics of debris flows, and suggestions for residents who live in steep, hilly terrain which is subject to periodic heavy rains. Full description.

This resource provides an overview of the distribution and occurence of water on Earth. Topics include where and how much water there is, the water cycle, and how water is measured. There is also discussion of characteristics and distribution of surface water, groundwater, glaciers, and icecaps. Full description.

This list of questions and answers about water covers a variety of categories, including water use in the United States, water use in the home, data and measurements, chemistry, and others. Links to additional information is embedded in the text of some questions. Full description.

This set of summary data tables shows information about water use in the United States, by state. Categories include total water use, public use, domestic use, irrigation, industrial, mining, and livestock uses. There is also a table showing thermoelectric power withdrawals. All information is for the year 2000. Full description.

This summary data table shows the total land area of each state, the area covered by water, and the percent of total area that is covered by water. The data represents only inland water, that is, surface water bodies surrounded by lands of the United States. Areas such as the Great Lakes are excluded. Full description.

Students can participate in an online survey to provide their opinions on water quality and supply, how water concerns rank with other environmental issues; and to vote for their favorite body of water. All answers go into a database and the results are displayed in a table so they can see how other participants answered. Full description.