Volcanic Emissions to Be Studied in Mammoth Mountain Area : Science File / An exploration of issues and trends affecting science, medicine and the environment.

The U.S. Geological Survey is planning to examine the Mammoth Mountain area with an airborne infrared scanner in an attempt to learn more about tree kills generated by volcanic emissions of carbon dioxide, scientists said Wednesday.

The mission, which is being coordinated with NASA, will be undertaken in August after the heavy eastern Sierra snowpack melts, according to USGS volcano expert Michael Sorey.

Project director Chris Farrar said scientists want to use as many different means as they can to determine what may be going on volcanically in the area and whether an eruption is imminent.

Compiled from Times wire and staff reports.