- Volcanic structures may have experienced sector collapse where upper flanks of volcanoes fail and form large-volume debris avalanche flows. Subsequent erosion could be significant. Current surface conditions may be featureless as shown in the sketch below right. Overburden may be volcanic rock but could also be tephra, ash, and/or erosional sedimentation rock. There may or may not be any surface thermal manifestations.
- Knowledge of regional geology and a regional model would help target initial exploration areas and then local geology would be focussed to investigate potential evidence of mineralisation and/or geothermal systems. Remote sensing (aerial and/or satellite) would be beneficial.
- There would be some evidence that initial reconnaissance surveys could help locate, ideally with the agreed support of local communities and landowners. Artisanal mining of streambeds or outcrops may provide some of this evidence. Local knowledge of thermal springs would provide additional evidence.
- Success would rely on assembling qualified teams, and obtaining necessary formal agreements with regulators, local communities, and landowners for permission to proceed into initial field exploration. Logistical and safety planning combined with useful equipment and testing plans and procedures designed to match the target deposits types and/or exploration purposes would facilitate exploration.
