AEG Geologic and Seismic Hazards (GASH) Technical Working Group

The Geologic and Seismic Hazards Technical Working Group (GASH TWG) was formed in 2020 and focuses on disseminating information to AEG membership regarding regulatory and technical guidance, existing and emerging methods and technologies, and case history examples related to assessment of geologic and seismic hazards for a variety of facility types and structures. GASH expands the scope of the previous Seismic Hazard TWG by covering a wider range of geologic hazards. Information disseminated by the GASH TWG includes, but is not limited to, that which addresses the following topics:

Characterization of seismic sources (i.e., faults) as input into probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA).
The Senior Seismic Hazard Analysis Committee (SSHAC) process for performing a PSHA.
Characterization of hazards due to tectonic and non-tectonic (e.g., subsidence due to dissolution) ground deformation using field and remote sensing techniques.
Probabilistic Fault Displacement Hazard Analysis (PFDHA).
Paleoseismology in the evaluation of fault displacement history and seismic hazard.
Characterization of volcanic hazards for location of proposed nuclear power facilities in regions containing volcanic centers and volcanic deposits of Quaternary age (2.58 million years to present).
Probabilistic Volcanic Hazards Analysis (PVHA).
Integration of geologic, geotechnical, hydrologic, and geospatial data to ensure robust characterization of hazards and foster cooperation with other AEG TWGs.
Evaluation of faulting and earthquake ground motion for hydroelectric power projects.
Communicating with members of the public, particularly non-scientists and key decision-makers, about issues related to geologic and seismic hazards.

The GASH TWG acts to enhance public awareness of the role geoscientists play for ensuring public health and safety and protecting the environment. As practitioners who apply existing and emerging methods and technologies for assessment of geologic and seismic hazards, the GASH TWG discusses the range of information used for such assessments at technical seminars, symposia, conferences, workshops, forums, and field trips that are open to the public and address current practices showcasing the state of the art. Certain of these events will be regularly organized and convened by the GASH TWG for AEG annual meetings and as specialty presentations separate from the annual meeting.

ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL & ENGINEERING GEOLOGISTS

The Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists (AEG) contributes to its members’ professional success and the public welfare by providing leadership, advocacy, and applied research in environmental and engineering geology.

Our Values

AEG's values are based on the belief that its members have a responsibility to assume stewardship over their fields of expertise. In support of serving an international network of environmental and engineering geologists devoted to excellence, AEG values:

Upholding sound principles of scientific inquiry with respect to the study and evaluation of geologic processes, their impact on humans, and the human impact on Earth
Encouraging and facilitating ongoing education and training as well as supporting members in their dedication to their work
Building public appreciation for how environmental and engineering geology contribute to public safety and the protection of property

Our Mission

Our Vision

AEG is the acknowledged international leader in environmental and engineering geology, and is greatly respected for its stewardship of the profession. AEG offers information on environmental and engineering geology useful to practitioners, scientists, students, and the public. Other geosciences organizations recognize the value of using and sharing AEG's outstanding resources.

AEG leads the profession in its advocacy for:

Legislation
Professional Licensure
Regulation
Codes and Standards

as each affects the practice of applied geosciences.

AEG's administration assures representation for all its members. Its outstanding staff assists members with a wide range of services that enable them to be more effective in their professional lives. Staff regularly reviews and modifies these services to adapt to the membership’s changing needs. AEG’s membership continually grows. Members and students are attracted by the educational and networking opportunities and the quality services provided.

Our Goals

AEG strives to continuously improve their services to their membership, the environmental and engineering geology communities, and the public. AEG has developed and maintained a Strategic Plan based on regular evaluations of the needs of these communities. The Strategic Plan includes measurable actions that are based on the following goals of the Association:

Communication: To improve the AEG experience and communicate it effectively
Profession: To promote and advance the value of applied geology for the public good
Membership: To provide applied geology professionals a place to thrive personally and professionally