| This view from near the Forest Learning Center along WA Highway
504 shows the north flank of Mount St. Helens where much of the debris from
the massive 1980 avalanche/eruption spilled into the valley of the Toutle
River valley. In the 25 years since the eruption the major streams in the
valley have re-established themselves. Shrublands, forests, and aquatic
ecosystems are gradually re-establishing themselves, yet large, barren expanses
along the streams and in the badlands-style debris fields on and around
the volcano are still a source of dust (ash) on particularly dry, windy
days. |
