Colorado's great diversity of rocks, geologic structures, soil types, topography, and climatic conditions combine to create vigorous and diverse geologic processes.  When humans move into this dynamic environment, these natural processes can become problematic as geologic hazards. 

For example, naturally occurring, inactive landslides may be triggered into renewed activity by the construction of roads or buildings that disrupt the stability of the slope.  In addition, many of Colorado's geologic hazards, such as heaving bedrock, swelling soils, and collapsible soils are commonly triggered by human activity that could have been mitigated though proper land-use practices. 

Other geologic hazards, like earthquakes, rockfall, mudslides, and avalanches are naturally occurring; but can wreak havoc on buildings, roads, and other engineered structures.

The Colorado Geological Survey is actively involved in geologic hazards research throughout the state. Our goal is to reduce the impact of geologic hazards on the lives and property of our citizens. 

Our award-winning publication A Guide to Swelling Soil for Colorado Homebuyers and Homeowners, now in its second edition, has sold over 300,000 copies.  The Colorado Geological Survey offers a host of other publications dealing with all aspects of geologic hazards.  Please visit our bookstore for more information on these titles.