Overview

Shallow on- and off-fault earth materials delineate the geotechnical layer which influences deformation throughout the earthquake cycle and strong ground motion. This two day, in-person workshop will bring together scientists from across the full spectrum of SCEC disciplines to explore earthquake rupture and creep in shallow earth materials, and to discuss technologies and strategies for studying these processes through future observations and implementing them in modeling efforts.

The workshop will begin with a field trip on November 10 to three key sites along the Southern San Andreas Fault: Salt Creek paleoseismic site, Ferrum, and Mecca Hills, CA. Participants will examine outcrops that exhibit seismic slip, steady and triggered creep, and damage patterns indicative of strain partitioning and (de)localization across the seismic cycle. Our discussions will explore problems of fault localization/delocalization as a function of fault geometry, lithology/sedimentology, fabric development, and depth, and the role of different fault zone components in shallow seismic rupture propagation versus transient creep. We’ll also compare geologic/geomorphic, geophysical, mechanical, and geodetic datasets to explore their complementarities. These well-studied sites with excellent geologic exposure will set the stage for broader discussions on day two, extending insights to fault systems across California.

The second day of the workshop will consist of invited talks and discussions on keytopics: (1) geodetic and geomorphic observations of shallow crustal deformation associated with earthquake rupture and interseismic creep, (2) geological processes associated with this deformation, (3) the properties of the geotechnical layer that cause uncertainties in modeling seismic site response and the interpretation of surface deformation observations, and (4) strategies for future instrumentation and observations needed to resolve uncertainties, as well as identifying key study areas outside of southern California in the statewide center.

We welcome applications from individuals involved in geological, geophysical, geodetic, and geotechnical investigations of near-surface fault zone deformation. We especially encourage participation from students, postdocs, and early career scientists. Capacity is limited to 40 in-person participants, selected based on their statement of interest and the potential of their contributions.

Workshop Costs

The workshop registration fee is $170, covering breakfast, lunch, and field trip expenses for November 10-11. Additional travel costs to participants may include transportation to/from Palm Springs (PSP), 2–3 nights lodging at the Hilton ($189/night before tax/fees), and dinners on Sunday through Tuesday, which are not included in the registration fee. Some SCEC travel awards are available based on financial need, with priority given to students, early-career researchers, and those without institutional funding. SCEC travel awards may cover the registration fee only, or include additional travel support.

Applicants should complete the travel support section carefully when applying. Accepted participants will be notified by October 10, 2025, with details on registration payment, hotel reservations, and travel award decisions if applicable.