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I had been interested in the means of lava diversion for several years when
word reached HVO that valiant efforts to divert lava flows were underway at
ETNA Volcano. Bob Decker, HVO's Scientist-in-Charge suggested that I travel
to Sicily, and an invitation from the International Institute of Volcanology
in Catania soon had me on a plane. The Italian volcanologists were advising
engineers on two main lava diversion techniques: explosive demolition of
lava channel walls and construction of massive earthen flow-diversion
structures. Much was learned in these efforts, several million dollars
worth of property was saved, and I learned a great deal from my Italian
colleagues.
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