The frequency of volcanic activity and the comprehensive data collected and archived by the Alaska Volcano Observatory make the Alaska-Aleutian Arc an ideal location to study active volcanic processes in the United States. This is evidenced by ongoing (PREEVENTS, AVERT, CONVERSE, SZ4D) large-scale research efforts. Alaska is home to the recently restless Mount Spurr and Mount Edgecumbe volcanic systems, and the massive but poorly understood Wrangell volcanic field. With several arc volcanoes in proximity to Anchorage, Alaska's most populous city, as well as posing a threat to major aviation flightpaths, we argue this is a crucial time to engage scientists with datasets and high-priority research questions identified for advancing scientific understanding and hazard models for these systems. Importantly, many datasets (geologic samples, geodetic measurements, and seismic recordings) are currently available and accessible, enabling immediate scientific opportunity.

This pre-AGU workshop follows a three-day Alaska-Aleutian Arc community workshop held in May 2025 at the University of Alaska Anchorage. At the May meeting, over 70 researchers at different career stages, from various geoscience disciplines, and from over 40 institutions and agencies discussed high-priority projects that utilize the rich and diverse datasets available for the Alaska Aleutian volcanoes, including those maintained by the Alaska Volcano Observatory.

Based on the extensive background information provided during the the workshop, participants used Poll Everywhere to submit ideas on science questions they were inspired by based on the extensive background information provided. Participants then voted on the topic(s) they were most excited about. The following emerged with top votes.

1. Structure of magma plumbing systems 

2. Origins of magma diversity in the continental Alaska and Aleutians 

3. Diversity of seismic sources in volcanic systems 

4. Linking volatiles and gas datasets 

5. Cycles in eruptive composition and style (eruptive histories) with magmatic system/volatile trends along the arc

Many of these themes align closely with priorities outlined in the SZ4D Implementation Plan. During the May 2025 workshop, participants met in working groups to advance these targeted topics, with several groups continuing their efforts through summer and fall 2025. This follow-up event will highlight the progress achieved over the past months and invite broader participation in the ideas and collaborations that have emerged.

Learn more | Explore the SZ4D Implementation Plan

This workshop will provide a forum for scientists from diverse research backgrounds and career stages to become involved in Alaska-Aleutian Arc science. Participants will hear updates from each working group, learn how to access existing datasets, and engage in breakout discussions to share ideas, identify future research directions, and contribute to shaping upcoming collaborative efforts.

Important Links

All relevant links and background materials from the May 2025 workshop - including the meeting agenda and data resources - are available on our program hub.