Several events will take place in the days ahead related to the 30th anniversary of the eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980.
A few of the highlights:
• 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday: Open house at the U.S. Geological Survey’s Cascades Volcano Observatory, 1300 S.E. Cardinal Court, Suite 100, in Vancouver. The center will offer children’s activities and hands-on demonstrations; exhibits; informal discussions with scientists; and an opportunity to have scientists identify your mystery rock.
• 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 15: “It’s a Blast: Volcano Science in your Backyard” includes presentations by scientists, guided walks, a kid’s science discovery area, aquatics exploration and viewing of the new documentary “Mount St. Helens: Life From Zero.” Event takes place at both Johnston Ridge Observatory and Coldwater Lake, on state Highway 504. Admission is $10 per person, though children 5 and younger are free. Purchase tickets at www.mshinstitute.org.
• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 16: “Tell Your Story.” The Hoffstadt Bluff Visitor Center, operated by Cowlitz County on state Highway 504, will present a special event highlighting first-hand accounts of the 1980 eruption. Admission is free.