Park Adapts to Elevated SO2 Levels
Since mid-January, scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory have recorded elevated sulfur dioxide levels at the summit of Kilauea in an area adjacent to Halema'uma'u crater, a popular park overlook.
Although the volcanic gas is always present at Kilauea's summit, typical concentrations are usually dispersed by the normal trade winds.
During the past month, levels as high as 10 ppm have occurred in a narrow band south/southwest of Halema'uma'u. Studies indicate that 10 to 15 ppm concentrations of sulfur dioxide is a threshold of toxicity for prolonged human exposure. Exposure to sulfur dioxide can aggravate pre-existing heart and breathing problems such as asthma.
The sustained gas levels have prompted the park to adjust visitation to this area to protect visitors and staff.
In response to the elevated SO2 levels, Superintendent Cindy Orlando has issued the following orders:
- Four miles of Crater Rim Drive (from Jaggar Museum to Chain of Craters Road) are open to drive-through visitation only. No parking or stopping is allowed at any pullout, parking lot, or shoulder including the Southwest Rift, Halema'uma'u crater, and Keanakako'i crater. Visitors are advised to drive through this area with their car windows closed and their air conditioner on recirculation mode.
- Five miles of Crater Rim Trail (from Jaggar Museum to Chain of Craters), and other summit trails leading to Halema'uma'u, are closed to hikers.
- The park has postponed all work projects in the affected area.
The closures, signed and marked by traffic cones, will remain in effect until SO2 levels return to normal.
[Submitted by Mardie Lane, 808-985-6018]
PARKS AND PEOPLE
Northeast Region
GS-0025-12/13 Park Manager (Superintendent)
Dates: 02/20/2008 - 03/11/2008
Serves as the Superintendent of George Washington Birthplace National Monument (GEWA) and Thomas Stone National Historic Site (THST). The Superintendent carries out a continuing area management program for both parks which includes administrative support, interpretation and visitor services, maintenance, resource management, visitor protection and development. GEWA and THST are in two different states. The Superintendent will manage this highly complex operation with two completely different sets of State laws; two separate Congressional delegations; administration of eight different counties; and numerous policies and regulations.
Relocation expenses will be paid. More Information...
Law Enforcement and Emergency Services
GS-0025-12/13 Branch Chief of Emergency Services
Dates: 02/15/2008 - 03/07/2008
The WASO Branch Chief, Emergency Services position is NOT 6c covered, but may be commisssioned if the selected employee has the required training and experience. Interested applicants who have achieved their 20 years of creditable law enforcement experience may continue their careers in this non 6c position. The DC area offers a great opportunity for interagency networking and of course helping the NPS maintain its strong Emergency Services program. [Submitted by Lane Baker, Lane_Baker@nps.gov, 202/513-7128] More Information...
Submission standards for the Morning Report can be found at the following web site:
http://inside.nps.gov/index.cfm?handler=viewnpsnewsarticle&type;=Announcements&id;=3363
All reports should be submitted via email to Lane Baker in the Division of Law Enforcement, Security and Emergency Services in the Washington Office and to Bill Halainen at Delaware Water Gap NRA, with copies to your regional office.