Earth

This section analyzes the four alternatives in relation to the region's geologic (and soils) features. The formation of the Puget Sound region has been shaped by the movement and subduction of the earth’s crust and volcanic and glacial activity over millions of years. The region is a geologically active area. All or parts of the study area are susceptible to the following hazards:

• Earthquakes
• Landslides/Erosion
• Volcanic Hazards
• Flooding
• Coal Mine Subsidence

Each of these events could cause a disaster, no matter which alternative is selected. However, the severity of the impact, and the number of people and properties affected, will depend on where and how growth is distributed under the different alternatives.