Volcanic Benefits
Although volcanoes are often deemed a hazard and dangerous to surrounding communities, Galeras volcano does provide some benefits to the residents who live near it. The first direct benefit from being in close proximity of the volcano, is the abundance of rich soil. Volcanic ash and other deposits provides nutrient rich soil that many Colombians require to survive. This is why many volcanoes in South America and other areas near the equator are often farmed as high up the flanks of the volcano as possible.
The second major benefit of the presence of Galeras volcano is the influx of tourists in the area. Volcanoes are often hot spots for tourism, because after all, volcanoes are some of the most spectacular landforms on our planet. This increased level of tourism provides an excellent stimulation to the local economies of the cities and villages surrounding the volcano.
Finally, scientists can benefit greatly from Galeras. Because of it's close proximity to the city of Pasto, it is easily observable via webcam. Pasto provides a great city to place an observatory with all utilities that one would need. Due to the high amount of activity at Galeras, scientists are learning a great deal about dome extrusion events and Vulcanian style eruptions.
The second major benefit of the presence of Galeras volcano is the influx of tourists in the area. Volcanoes are often hot spots for tourism, because after all, volcanoes are some of the most spectacular landforms on our planet. This increased level of tourism provides an excellent stimulation to the local economies of the cities and villages surrounding the volcano.
Finally, scientists can benefit greatly from Galeras. Because of it's close proximity to the city of Pasto, it is easily observable via webcam. Pasto provides a great city to place an observatory with all utilities that one would need. Due to the high amount of activity at Galeras, scientists are learning a great deal about dome extrusion events and Vulcanian style eruptions.
Figure 21: Google Earth image highlighting the lush vegetation on the flanks of Galeras volcano. This ash rich material is optimal for farming practices and is utilized as far up the volcano as possible. Note the close proximity of Pasto to the summit of the volcano. Image courtesy of Google Earth.