The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) USGS.gov | Science for a changing world is an Interior Department agency established in 1879 to study the nation’s lands and resources.  It monitors, analyzes, and predicts Earth’s changing systems along with the Moon, asteroid belt, and the planet Mars.  Its science provides clear, reliable data protecting lives and property, supporting energy and mineral decisions, strengthening water infrastructure, and promoting economic growth. 

Information resources it produces include maps, charts, reports, statistics, images, infographics, videos, and podcasts.  Laws governing USGS can be found in multiple sections of the U.S. Code Laws and Regulations Governing USGS Activities | U.S. Geological Survey  Some regulations governing USGS can be found beginning at 30 CFR eCFR :: 30 CFR Chapter IV — Geological Survey, Department of the Interior beginning at 30 CFR 400.    Agency mission areas include ecosystems, geology, energy, and minerals, natural hazards, and water resources.  USGS mineral resources data can be found at its National Minerals Information Center National Minerals Information Center | U.S. Geological Survey documenting U.S. mineral industries, state mineral industry activity and resources, and foreign government mineral industry and resources. 

USGS’s Fiscal Year 2027 congressional budget request seeks $892.7 million to support 4,736 full time employees Budget Justifications and Performance Information FY 2027: U.S. Geological Survey (p. 3)  and documents Trump Administration priorities for this agency including addressing what it sees as an energy emergency, restoring U.S. mineral dominance, using information to protect life and property, and restructuring the agency’s budget.

This blog post was submitted by Bert Chapman, Purdue University.