A model for developing best practice volcano monitoring: a combined threat assessment, consultation and network effectiveness approach

This paper presents a combined approach to achieving best practice volcano monitoring through a review of New Zealand’s volcano-monitoring capability as established under the GeoNet project. A series of benchmark, consultation and network performance studies were undertaken to provide a comprehensive review of volcano monitoring in New Zealand and to establish plans for future improvements in capability. The United States Geological Survey National Volcano Early Warning System method was applied to benchmark the established monitoring networks against recommendations for instrumentation based on a volcano’s threat level. Next, a consultative study of New Zealand’s volcanology research community was undertaken to canvass opinions on what future directions GeoNet volcano monitoring should take. Once the seismic network infrastructure had been built, a noise floor analysis was conducted to identify stations with poor site noise characteristics. Noise remediation for poor sites has been implemented by either re-locating the site or placing sensors in boreholes. Quality control of Global Navigation Satellite System networks is undertaken through the use of multipath parameters derived from routine processing. Finally, the performance of the monitoring networks is assessed against two recent eruptions at Mount Tongariro and White Island. This combined approach can be used as a model to assess the need for future monitoring levels on any volcano. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht 2014