After Mount St. Helens erupted, researchers had a blank slate from which to explore the science of ecological recovery. Scientist Charley Crisafulli was drawn to log-covered Spirit Lake, where nutrient rich waters fueled an unusually fast resurgence in fish, plant life and amphibians. It’s a phenomenon that continues to fascinate scientists everywhere. Originally broadcast in 2008.

OPB is revisiting decades of stories our reporters and producers captured while working with scientists, photographers, adventurers and explorers on the volcano since its eruption on May 18, 1980.

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