The Cascadia fault is expected to release a giant earthquake — it’s not a matter of if, but a matter of when.  That’s why research and preparedness activities are crucial. Operation Pinecone, a major emergency operations scenario, is currently taking place all over Western Washington to help teams prepare for “the big one.” Hundreds of emergency workers in six counties, state agencies, private businesses, FEMA and even officials from British Colombia are taking part in the biggest disaster drill of its kind. ESS‘ Bill Steele is involved in this major project. Alongside scenario planning is continued research, including by one of the world’s most advanced research ships, as it cruises along the Washington and Oregon coasts this month to look for clues about giant earthquakes. Read more about this research project; ESS‘ Ken Creager is quoted.