Steven wrote:
This response from the USGS is quite peculiar, and comes across as an attempt to calm the curious or defuse and inquiring public.
For starters, they are trying to tell us that the ability and availability to record more quakes due to advancements and number of stations between 1900-2006, is generating the increase in the number of quakes. However, if we really look at the greatest leap in earth quake activity, the window is between the year 2002-2006 (2008,09,10 not on this graph). Now, we are comparing a 4 year window of recorded activity and technology/number of stations, instead of a 106 year window. Therefore, the number of stations available and technology to record earthquakes becomes a non-factor and makes me think more about USGS integrity.
Here is the link again to the graph
http://www.thehorizonproject.com/earthquakes.cfm
Let's look further.....
By looking at the earthquakes from 2002-2006 you will notice the immediate leap into double digits annually for 7-8+ mag quakes. Prior to 2002, we averaged
4 quakes (7-8+ mag) annually. As of 2002, we jumped to a whopping 22 quakes, then in
2003 we jumped to 38 quakes, 2004- 33 quakes, 2005 -36 quakes, and a mild decrease in 2006 to 24 quakes. Now, if you then consider what we know to date, which is the
Suns activity became rather quiet in 2003 and the NEAT comet was spotted flying pass the Sun also in 2003…
The year we had the highest number of 7-8+ mag quakes.
Basically, USGS is not to be trusted. Good thing they were not posting that response to Avalon inquiries. LOL