When I was involved in advocating for seismic safety in public schools in California, back in the late '80s, I sought a map that would show those areas within Los Angeles Unified that were vulnerable to liquefaction.  The only map I could find that showed these data dated from before the construction of the Interstate Freeway System, 1959 IIRC.  My geologist contact at the Office of the State Architect deplored the situation, but coule offer no help.  My estimate then and now is that these professionals risked their jobs if they became too forth -coming on such a topic.  It was seen as being bad for the real estate business.

When I introduced a resolution to improve seismic standards at the State PTA meeting, opponents from San Diego made a quick counter argument and called a snap vote that defeated the proposal before I could even get to a microphone to speak.  As I had voted for the resolution, I could not call for a reconsideration.  Fortunately, the President of our local association had, or claimed she had, voted against it and called for a re-vote.  After my sobering presentation it passed and became the State PTA's official position.  It was, after the Northridge and Oakland quakes, eventually made law.

Never underestimate the resistance to bad news.  Only "renagades" and outsiders can deliver such news.  Doing so from within the system can be career suicide.  

"It is not necessary to have hope in order to persevere."

Moreover I dont't like their emotional tone, which takes for granted it would take millennia for the WAIS to go, whereas the real problem is whether it would take 45 minutes, like in the Hollywood movies (as happened with some shelves).

PA

Patrice Ayme Patriceayme.com Patriceayme.wordpress.com http://tyranosopher.blogspot.com/