USGS
Created by an act of Congress in 1879, the U.S. Geological Survey has evolved over the decades, matching its talent and knowledge to the progress of science and technology. The USGS is the sole science agency for the Department of the Interior. It is sought out by thousands of partners and customers for its natural science expertise and its vast earth and biological data holdings.
Our VisionLead the Nation in 21st-century integrated research, assessments, and prediction of natural resources and processes to meet society’s needs.
Our MissionThe USGS monitors, analyzes, and predicts current and evolving Earth-system interactions and delivers actionable information at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. The USGS provides science about natural hazards, natural resources, ecosystems and environmental health, and the effects of climate and land-use change.
As the Nation’s largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, we collect, monitor, analyze, and provide science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems. Our diverse expertise enables large-scale, multidisciplinary investigations and provides impartial scientific information to resource managers, planners, and our customers.