I thought that Roger was the only other board poster who got up before 10 AM. Apparently not.

The problem is that many forecasters and earthquake researchers in general won’t say anything in public if they think that their comments are going to be the subject of criticism, and for good reason. Their careers and ability to apply for grants etc. could be damaged. So, destructive criticism won’t be allowed with posts to that bulletin board if it does get running.

I can adjust the software for the CGI computer program so that a variety of options are available. For example, a person might be able to specify that only certain other people are allowed to post responses to his or her post. As a consequence, Roger, unfortunately, probably won’t be on anyone’s “allow” list (humor intended).

Geologists frequently demand that an acceptable earthquake forecast specify exact location, time window, and magnitude information, all at the same time. And that does not allow for the fact that three different forecasting methods might each generate just one of those pieces of information. And if they could all be viewed at the same location such as that new bulletin board then one complete and accurate forecast could be assembled from the various parts.

The scientific review process can be used with formal publications. Bulletin boards are largely intended for informal communications where speed is important. If an earthquake is getting ready to occur, people can’t wait for 6 months for the data to be reviewed by a panel of experts.

These are personal opinions.