May 3, 2000

Mountain views for homes have increased in popularity in recent years, but are the hazards associated with them extreme? Rock falls and slides are a threat to property and life in the areas where the rocks tumble and roll, according to the latest flier released by the Utah Geological Survey (UGS).

The flier, Rock-Fall Hazards, is part of the UGS' public information series. Issues that surround rock falls and slides are addressed in the paper and are accompanied by color photographs of over ten rock slides that have occurred in Utah.

Rock-Fall Hazards explains the causes of rock falls, including: earthquakes, temperature changes, rapid snowmelt and excavations for a roads, buildings or other structures. The paper educates the public about damage that results from rock falls, as well as indicators of potential rock falls and slides.

Rock-Fall Hazards is available at the Natural Resources Map & Bookstore, 1594 West North Temple, Salt Lake City.