6 Surficial geology and neotectonics in the West: Celebrating and advancing the legacy of Kirk Bryan through field-based geomorphology studies (Posters)

This session invites and examines recent field-based geomorphology studies in the West. Contributions regarding soils geomorphology, neotectonics, pediments, fluvial terraces, and landscape development are invited.

Monday, 18 May 2026
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Alvarado D/E

Establishing a GPS Monument Network Across North Central New Mexico

Paper number: 6-5
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 8:00 AM – 8:00 AM

Authors

  • Dane Coats Presenting Author
    Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico
  • Nathan Maier
    Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico

Abstract

The Rio Grande Rift represents an active zone of continental extension with significant tectonic and volcanic activity, including the Valles Caldera resurgent volcanic system. Understanding the contemporary crustal deformation patterns in this region is critical for assessing seismic, as well as constraining geodynamic models of continental rifting. We have established a network of six GPS monuments strategically positioned across the Rio Grande Rift, Pajarito Plateau, and Valles Caldera, with a seventh station planned. These continuous or campaign-style GPS stations will provide high-precision measurements of surface displacement, enabling the characterization of long-term crustal motion patterns, and strain accumulation rates. The geodetic data collected from this network will allow us to: (1) quantify extension rates across the Rio Grande Rift, (2) assess the relationship between regional tectonic stress and local crustal movement on the Pajarito Plateau, and (3) detect subtle ground deformation associated with magmatic or hydrothermal processes beneath the Valles Caldera. This monitoring infrastructure will provide valuable baseline data for long-term tectonic studies and contribute to hazard assessment efforts in northern New Mexico.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 4

doi: 10.1130/abs/2026RM-410546

© Copyright 2026 The Geological Society of America (GSA), all rights reserved. Permission is hereby granted to the author(s) of this abstract to reproduce and distribute it freely, for noncommercial purposes. Permission is hereby granted to any individual scientist to download a single copy of this electronic file and reproduce up to 20 paper copies for noncommercial purposes advancing science and education, including classroom use, providing all reproductions include the complete content shown here, including the author information. All other forms of reproduction and/or transmittal are prohibited without written permission from GSA Copyright Permissions.