HomeMy WebLinkAboutU.S. Geological Survey 1985United States Department of the Interior
GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
WATER RESOURCES DIVISION
FEDERAL BUILDING
300 EAST 8TH STREET
AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701
September 16, 1985
The Hon. Carl Doering and
Members of City Council
City of Georgetown
P. 0. Box 409
Georgetown, TX 78626
Dear Mayor and Council Members:
3
The enclosed document describes the mission and goals of the U.S. Geological
Survey and the authorities by which it operates. It is intended to serve as a
guide in planning, developing, and implementing new programs and activities in
the earth sciences. We believe that the close and mutually beneficial working
relationship between the Survey and the cooperating agencies is a major reason
for the outstanding success of the Federal -State Cooperative Program, and that
an understanding of the mission and goals of the Survey will enhance this rela-
tionship. Accordingly, we ask that you examine the document and give us the
benefit of your knowledge and experience. We are genuinely interested in your
comments, ideas, and suggestions on how we can improve its contents and the
manner in which the information is presented.
Please send your comments to:
Director
U.S. Geological Survey
National Center
Mail Stop, 100
Reston, Virginia 22092
If possible we would appreciate your response within 3 weeks after your receipt
of this letter. After consideration of all review comments, a final document
will be prepared, and a copy will be sent to you after publication later this
year. Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely yours,
C. W. Boning
District Chief
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MISSION, GOALS,
.. AND
- AUTHORITIES
V
of the
U.S. Geological Survey,
June 1985
PROVISION A L E D I T I O N
Department of the Interior
U.S. Geological Survey
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Foreword ................................................ ii
Preface.................................................. iii
NationalNeeds .......................................... 1
Mission.................................................. b
Goals.................................................... 6
Authorities.............................................. 11
Appendix: Authorizing Legislation ...................... 14
,: rti
W.
FOREWORD
We live in a society which depends on natural resources. Our high standard of
living requires use of the land, water, and mineral endowment of the Earth. In
using these resources, we may affect our environment and alter our options for
land and resource use in the future. How can we ensure an adequate supply of this
natural wealth in the future? In what ways are we irreversibly altering our
natural environment? How can we avoid undesirable or unacceptable side effects
ofman's use of the land and prevent or mitigate earth -related hazards? To respond
to these and other similar questions, knowledge about the Earth, its structure, its
resources, and its dynamics is essential.
The U.S. Geological Survey was established over a century ago to provide
information about the Earth for use by the Congress, Federal agencies, and the
public in reaching informed decisions concerning our natural resources. To place
this knowledge in a coherent scientific and global context and apply it to meet
future needs necessitates continued research in basic earth science.
The Survey has been, from its very inception, an integral part of the larger
national and international earth -science community. It cooperates with other
Federal and State agencies, as well as with academic and industrial groups, both
in the United States and elsewhere, to ensure a continuous and mutually
beneficial collection and exchange of information, ideas, and results.
The Survey's contributions enhance the quality of life in our country. Its
effectiveness and credibility stem largely from its ability to attract outstanding
people and its commitment to objectivity in its investigations.
This document describes the mission, goals, and authorities of the Survey and
shows how they relate to national needs. As the needs of the Nation and as the
state of the science change, the document will be reviewed and revised if
necessary. Comments are invited. Please address them to the Director,
U.S. Geological Survey, 100 National Center, Reston, Virginia 22092.
Dallas L. Peck
Director
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PREFACE
The U.S. Geological Survey was established in 1879 when the Congress of the
United States determined that the Nation needed an agency to examine the
geologic structure, mineral resources, and other products of the "national domain."
Since that time, the mission of the Survey has evolved as a result of additional
legislation; advancements in science and technology, and changing national needs
and priorities. This evolution has been in concert with other elements of the
Federal and State governments and with the larger earth -science community,
both national and international, of which the Survey has always been an integral
part.
The material needs of society are ultimately met by the resources of the Earth.
Therefore, earth scientists are important contributors to the future welfare of the
Nation. As our society grows and technology evolves, the material requirements
to meet national needs change. To maintain the ability to meet its responsibility
in addressing these changing needs, the Survey must periodically reexamine its
mission and goals.
This document presents the results of such a reexamination. It is organized into
four sections: (1) National Needs I -- problems where earth -science information is
needed for decisionma ing; ( ) Mission -- functions that the Survey is authorized
and funded to perform; (3) Goals -tea cf esired state, process, or product that the
Survey plans to achieve in order to address future needs for earth -science
knowledge; and (4) Authorities -- legislation and executive documents that have
authorized and funded urvey activities since it was established in 1879. The
appendix is a chronological list of pertinent legislation.
iii
NATIONAL NEEDS
Population growth, expansion of material needs, and rapidly changing technology
have placed great demands on the Nation's natural resources and environment.
Satisfying present and future needs for food, water, energy, living space, shelter,
transportation, recreation, and other requirements of a modern civilized society
create many complex problems. Solution of these problems demands application of
earth -science information to guide the development, conservation, and
management of land, mineral, and water resources. Some of the national needs,
and ways in which earth sciences can be applied to meet them, are listed below.
Energy
o Use of nonrenewable energy resources requires continuing efforts by earth
scientists to locate and understand the genesis of these resources, and to
maintain current knowledge of the supply, demand, and discovery of energy
resources worldwide.
o Development of other energy resources, such as hydroelectric, geothermal,
solar, or fusion power, may require decisions about alternative uses of land,
water, and materials.
o Extraction of certain energy -producing materials from the Earth carries
with it the risk of serious environmental damage. Examples are wastes
from the mining and processing of energy -producing materials, increased
output of atmospheric pollutants that affect the quality of precipitation,
destruction of habitats because of mining activity, land subsidence around
oil fields, and pollution of water from the disposal of energy -related wastes.
Solutions to these problems require understanding of the chemical,
physical, and biological processes occurring in the air, in the land surface,
and in the ground,
Minerals
o Our industrial society consumes large quantities of mineral resources. At
the same time, urban growth and withdrawal of public lands prevent many
areas from being developed for mineral extraction. Accurate appraisals of
mineral resources of public and private lands, both onshore and offshore,
are needed to (1) facilitate decisionmaking about the long-term
availability of minerals and about technological problems associated with
alternative uses and (2) make policy decisions about the use of the
Nation's land.
o Many major mineral districts are nearly depleted. Important mineral
deposits either may be undetected or are not currently being exploited
because of low grade or poor accessibility. New techniques are needed to
detect undiscovered deposits and to utilize lower grade mineral deposits.
o Many strategic and critical minerals needed to sustain our society are not
found in abundance within the United States and have to be imported.
Study of the origins of these minerals, their worldwide distribution, and the
development of methodologies for their detection can identify new sources
and lessen our reliance on uncertain foreign sources.
critical minerals on a global scale is also necessary for planning national
security.
Detection and identification of underground nuclear tests require
knowledge of the Earth's internal structure and the physical properties of
rocks and requires the ability to discriminate such tests from earthquakes.
Planning for the containment of underground tests of nuclear weapons and
storage of weapons and associated radioactive wastes requires geologic and
hydrologic information.
National defense and security depend upon the capability to quickly and
accurately locate features on the Earth's surface. Modern navigation
systems require extensive knowledge about the geodetic and geophysical
characteristics, topography, and oceanographic features of the Earth.
Knowledge of geologic hazards on military facilities, communications, and
stockpiles is necessary to avoid or mitigate the effects of natural
catastrophic events.
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MISSION
The mission of the U.S. Geological Survey is to provide geologic, topographic, and
hydrologic information that contributes to the wise management of the Nation's
natural resources and that promotes the health, safety, and well-being of the
people. This information consists of maps, data bases, and descriptions and
analyses of the water, energy, and mineral resources, land surface, underlying
geologic structure, and the dynamic processes of the Earth.
To accomplish its mission, the Survey:
o Conducts and sponsors research in geology, hydrology, mapping, and
related sciences to address national needs.
o Produces and updates geographic, cartographic, and remotely sensed
information in graphic and digital forms.
o Describes the onshore and offshore geologic framework and develops an
understanding of its formation and evolution.
o Assesses energy and mineral resources, determines their origin and manner
of occurrence, and develops techniques for their discovery.
o Collects and analyzes data on the quantity and quality of surface water and
ground water, on water use, and on the quality of precipitation.
o Assesses water resources and develops an understanding of the impact of
human activities and natural phenomena on hydrologic systems.
o Evaluates hazards associated with earthquakes, volcanoes, floods,
droughts, toxic materials, landslides, subsidence, and other ground failures.
o Participates in the exploration of space by characterizing processes and
materials within the solar system.
o Publishes reports and maps, establishes and maintains earth -science data
bases, and disseminates earth -science data and information.
o Provides scientific and technical assistance for the effective use of earth -
science techniques, products, and information.
o Coordinates topographic, geologic, and land -use mapping, digital
cartography, and water -data acquisition.
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GOALS
Goals identify a desired state, process, or product and serve to guide an organization
toward the future. The goals presented below are those where the U.S. Geological
Survey seeks to make contributions to the welfare of society within the context of
its mission. These goals link the Survey's activities and programs to the national
needs identified above. Although many of the Nation's needs for earth -science
information are met by the Geological Survey, other Federal and State agencies,
industry, and academia also make major contributions to meeting national needs
for earth -science information.
Topographic Mapping
EXPAND KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THE LOCATION AND CONFIGURATION
OF NATURAL AND MAN-MADE FEATURES OF THE NATION'S LAND
AND WATER AREAS TO SATISFY THE NEEDS OF GOVERNMENT
ORGANIZATIONS, INDUSTRY, AND THE PUBLIC FOR ACCURATE AND
UP-TO-DATE TOPOGRAPHIC INFORMATION.
This information is required by a wide variety of users, such as those who manage
the land, develop its resources, have responsibility for environmental protection or
national security, or seek recreational opportunities. This information is the basic
foundation necessary for the efficient conduct of land -resource and earth -science
studies. Basic data are acquired through field surveys, use of aerial photographs
and other remotely sensed data, and from other cartographic and geographic
sources. The results are portrayed on topographic maps at various scales or
maintained in digital data bases.
Geologric Framework
INCREASE KNOWLEDGE OF THE GEOLOGIC STRUCTURE OF THE NATION
INCLUDING THE CONTINENTAL SHELF AND THE EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC
ZONE TO PROVIDE THE SCIENTIFIC FRAMEWORK FOR ENERGY,
MINERAL, AND HAZARDS INVESTIGATIONS AND TO MEET
UNFORESEEN FUTURE RESPONSIBILITIES.
Such knowledge must include an understanding of the deep structure and
composition of the Earth, its history of formation and evolution, and its relation
to other lanets and moons in the solar system. The knowledge is acquired by
means opgeological and geophysical mapping; testing of conceptual models and
measurement of physical and chemical properties of rocks and minerals;
determination of the absolute and relative ages of rocks and minerals;
documentation of the evolution of organisms and of past changes in the Earth's
climatic and magnetic history; and participation in the exploration of space.
Energy and Mineral Resource Assessment
INCREASE KNOWLEDGE OF THE DISTRIBUTION AND QUALITY OF
NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL MINERAL AND ENERGY RESOURCES
SO THAT RESPONSIBLE OFFICIALS AND THE PUBLIC WILL BE ABLE TO
FORMULATE AND EVALUATE POLICIES THAT AFFECT THE LONG-TERM
AVAILABILITY OF THESE RESOURCES AND TO MAKE DECISIONS ABOUT
THE WISE USE OF THE NATION'S LAND, MINERAL, AND ENERGY
RESOURCES.
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Such knowledge is obtained by developing and using techniques of resource
evaluation including geologic mapping, resource -distribution modeling,
geophysical and geochemical investigations, and supporting basic research.
Water Resources Assessment
INCREASE KNOWLEDGE OF THE DISTRIBUTION AND QUALITY OF THE
NATION'S GROUND -WATER AND SURFACE -WATER RESOURCES SO
THAT RESPONSIBLE OFFICIALS AND THE PUBLIC WILL BE ABLE TO
FORMULATE AND EVALUATE POLICIES AND PROGRAMS THAT AFFECT
WATER RESOURCES.
This entails knowing aquifer properties, the general configuration of water levels,
and patterns of ground -water recharge, circulation, and discharge; average runoff,
its seasonal variation, and low flow and flood characteristics of the Nation's rivers;
the chemical and physical quality of these resources; and the quality of
precipitation including geographic variations and time trends. This knowledge is
developed by analyzing data collected over many years, mapping the resource,
and interpreting these observations in light of the relevant natural and human
factors.
Water Use
IMPROVE KNOWLEDGE OF THE WAY IN WHICH SOCIETY USES WATER
RESOURCES SO AS TO SUPPORT WATER MANAGEMENT AND TO
IMPROVE THE ACCURACY OF WATER -USE FORECASTS.
Such information assists officials to plan and design dams, well fields, water -
distribution systems, water -treatment plants, and other water -related facilities.
The development of a full range of water -management options depends, in part,
upon knowledge of existing water -use processes, ways in which they may be
altered, and the impact the processes have on water quality. This knowledge is
acquired by collecting and analyzing data about the location, amount, and
purposes of withdrawals from ground -water and surface -water systems; the
location, amounts, and quality of water returned to hydrologic systems; and the
amounts of water used.
Energy and Mineral Resource Processes
ENHANCE THE ABILITY TO DISCOVER HIDDEN OR AS YET
UNRECOGNIZED TYPES OF ENERGY AND MINERAL DEPOSITS TO FORM
ECONOMICALLY IMPORTANT ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES BY
DEVELOPING INFORMATION ON THE NATURAL PROCESSES BY WHICH
MATERIALS IN THE EARTH ARE FORMED, TRANSPORTED, AND
CONCENTRATED.
Such information is needed to improve our understanding of the origins and
occurrence of this wealth. This knowledge is obtained by field investigations,
laboratory experiments, analyses, and construction of conceptual models.
Hydrologic Processes
ENHANCE UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROCESSES THAT AFFECT OR
CONTROL THE MOVEMENT OF WATER AND ITS DISSOLVED AND
SUSPENDED CONSTITUENTS THROUGH HYDROLOGIC SYSTEMS.
This provides water resources managers with the capability to predict the effects
of natural phenomena and human actions on the hydrologic system. This
enhanced understanding is achieved by fundamental research on the physical,
chemical, and biological processes operating in hydrologic systems and by the
simulation of these processes, which leads to improved methods of prediction.
Geographic Processes
INCREASE KNOWLEDGE OF THE PROCESSES THAT AFFECT THE
LOCATION, DISTRIBUTION, QUALITY, AND CHANGES IN LAND USE AND
LAND COVER TO IMPROVE PREDICTIONS OF THE EFFECTS OF NATURAL
AND MAN -INDUCED STRESSES ON LAND -RESOURCE SYSTEMS.
This is accomplished by integrating and analyzing in a geographic framework
information on physical, biological, and human processes.
Hazards Prediction
IMPROVE THE ABILITY TO PREDICT THE LOCATION, TIME, AND SEVERITY
OF NATURAL AND MAN-MADE HAZARDS IN ORDER TO MINIMIZE LOSS OF
LIFE AND PROPERTY.
Losses from earth -science hazards including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions,
and landslides can be reduced by development of predictive methodology and by a
more complete understanding of the rates of dynamic interactions of Earth
processes.
Hazards Mitigation and Prevention
IMPROVE TECHNOLOGIES FOR MINIMIZING DESTRUCTION IN AREAS
AFFECTED BY NATURAL AND MAN-MADE HAZARDS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE
THE MEANS TO PREVENT OR REDUCE THE RISKS OF ECONOMIC
DISRUPTION AND LOSS OF LIFE.
Included in these hazards are earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and
landslides; human activities that result in soil erosion and ground -water
depletion; and nuclear and other toxic -waste contamination. Information for this
purpose is obtained by locating potential hazards, determining their character,
and devising means to diminish their actual or expected effects on public health
and safety, property, and the environment.
Timely Reporting of Events and Conditions
PROVIDE TIMELY REPORTING, AND FORECASTS WHEN POSSIBLE, OF
IMPORTANT HYDROLOGIC AND GEOLOGIC EVENTS AND CONDITIONS OF
IMMEDIATE CONCERN TO THE PUBLIC AND TO GOVERNMENTAL BODIES.
The timely reporting of hydrologic conditions is needed for the efficient operation
of water -supply and navigation facilities, for efficient water -quality and flood
control, and for the implementation of court decrees, treaties, and compacts.
Certain geologic events, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, or magnetic field
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changes, require the rapid determination of the location, magnitude, or nature of
the event for immediate and effective responses. The timely documentation of
these conditions and events is accomplished by the continued operation of
networks of sensors, including streamgages and seismometers, and by the rapid
processing, analysis, and dissemination of relevant information and warnings.
Coordination
IMPROVE THE COORDINATION OF EARTH -SCIENCE DATA COLLECTION,
RESEARCH, AND MAPPING SO AS TO MINIMIZE DUPLICATION OF
EFFORT, INCREASE DATA ACCESSIBILITY, AND REDUCE COSTS.
Coordination is carried out by sharing plans, technologies, and data bases, and by
making approaches to standardize information formats.
Earth -Science Standards
ESTABLISH STANDARDS FOR ACCURACY, FORMAT, AND
MAINTENANCE OF EARTH -SCIENCE INFORMATION NECESSARY TO
IMPROVE COMMUNICATION AND FACILITATE THE EXCHANGE OF
INFORMATION AMONG USERS.
Standards are developed in operational programs and are reviewed by earth -
science colleagues and other potential users. Standards also are revised as the
result of improvement in technology and evolving scientific thought and as a
result of user requirements. Some standards are developed in concert with other
Federal agencies, professional organizations, or international councils. Selected
earth -science standards are submitted for review and promulgation as Federal
standards.
Information Dissemination
IMPROVE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR ACCESSIBILITY AND
UNDERSTANDING OF EARTH -SCIENCE INFORMATION AND
TECHNOLOGIES.
This is achieved by publishing maps, scientific and technical reports, and data
bases and by operating public information centers and clearinghouses that enable
potential users to readily identify and obtain existing information.
Training and Assistance
INCREASE CAPABILITIES OUTSIDE THE SURVEY, ESPECIALLY OF
ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS AND STATE AGENCIES, TO CONDUCT EARTH -
SCIENCE RESEARCH, TO DEVELOP TECHNOLOGIES THAT CAN HELP
SOLVE RESOURCE -RELATED PROBLEMS, AND TO TRAIN AN ADEQUATE
SUPPLY OF EARTH -SCIENCE PROFESSIONALS.
This is accomplished by cooperative programs and by research grants.
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Mission Support
IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY OF THE SURVEY TO EFFECTIVELY CARRY OUT
ITS MISSION.
This is accomplished by securing and developing a competent and innovative work
force, improving the quality of the work place, and deriving maximum benefits
from available resources.
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AUTHORITIES
The U.S. Geological Survey derives authority for its activities from
specific pieces of legislation, including its annual appropriation acts
and various executive orders. The Survey was established by an Act
of Congress on March 3, 1879, that authorized "appropriations for
sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending
June 30, 1880, and for other purposes." This Act is commonly referred
to as the Survey's Organic Act, codified in 43 U.S.C. 31 as follows:
"The Director of the Geological Survey,
which office is established, under the
Interior Department, shall be appointed
by the President by and with the advice
and consent of the Senate. This officer
shall have the direction of the Geological
Organic Survey and the classification of the public
Act lands and examination of the geological
structure, mineral resources, and products
of the national domain. The Director and
members of the Geological Survey shall
have no personal or private interests in
the lands or mineral wealth of the region
under survey, and shall execute no
surveys or examinations for private parties
or corporations."
The Survey's authority was made more specific over the years by
additional legislation (listed in the appendix) that clarifies its role and
authority. For example, the geographic scope of the Survey's activities
was expanded beyond the national domain when on
Geographic August 23, 1958, the Secretary of the Interior was authorized by
Scope P.L. 85-743 (43 U.S.C. 1457) "to perform surveys, investigations, and
research in geology, biology, minerals and water resources, and
mapping ... in Antarctica and the Trust Territories of the the Pacific
Islands;" and on September 5, 1962, when the Survey was authorized
by P.L. 87-626 (43 U.S.C. 31b) to conduct "such examinations outside
the national domain where determined by the Secretary to be in the
national interest."
Authority for conducting geologic surveys is expressly contained in the
1879 Organic Act. Chemical and physical research was recognized
Geologic and undertaken as an essential part of geologic investigations.
Surveys Specific appropriation for such work was made by Congress in an act
of October 2,1888 (25 Stat. 505, 526).
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Authority for making topographic surveys is inherent in the language
of the 1879 Organic Act. In appropriating funds for the fiscal year
1889 (25 Stat. 505, 526), Congress made specific provision for
topographic surveys. Further recognition was given in an act of
June 11, 1896 (43 U.S.C. 38), requiring that, in making topographic
surveys, elevations "shall be determined and marked by iron or stone
Topographic posts or permanent bench marks;" and by the joint resolution of
Surveys Februar 18, 1897 (43 U.S.C. 42), authorizing and directing the
dispersal of"topographic and geologic mars and atlases of the United
States, made and published by the Geological Survey ...."
Cooperative (joint) funding with State and local government agencies
was first referenced in the appropriations act of March 7, 1928 (45
Stat. 231), which provided that the share of the Geological Survey in
any topographic investigation carried out in cooperation with any
State or municipality shall not exceed 50 percent of the cost.
Authority for conducting water resources investigations is inherent in
the language of the 1879 Organic Act. It was further recognized in an
act of October 2, 1888 (25 Stat. 505, 526) which authorized the survey
of irrigable lands in and regions, reservoir sites, gaging of streams,
etc., for irrigation. In an August 18, 1894, statute (28 Stat. 372, 398),
Congress made funds available to the Geological Survey for "gaging
the streams and determining the water supply of the United States,
including the investigations of underground currents and artesian
wells in and and semi -arid sections." Authority to exercise these
functions by the Geological Survey is also indicated in an act of
Water June 11, 1896 (29 Stat. 413, 453), providing that "hereafter the reports
Resources of the Geological Survey in relation to the gaging of streams and to the
Investigations methods of utilizing the water resources may be printed in octavo form
... ;" and the joint resolution of May 16, 1902 (44 U.S.C. 260),
providing that "hereafter the publications of the Geological Survey
shall consist of... water -supply and irrigation papers ......
Cooperative (joint funding of water resources investigations was first
referenced in the appropriations act of March 7, 1928 (45 Stat. 231),
which provided that the share of the Geological Survey in any water
resource investigation carried out in cooperation with any State or
municipality shall not exceed 50 percent of the cost.
The Survey's legislative authorities were supplemented in later years
by authorizations from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
as follows:
OMB Circular A-16, issued by the Bureau of the Budget on
January 16, 1953, and revised May 6, 1967, names the Department of
the Interior (delegated to the Geological Survey); as "responsible for
National the National Topographic Map Series of the United States and
Mapping outlying areas of sovereignty and jurisdiction and for the National
Coordination Atlas of the United States of America." It also calls for the
Department to operate a "Map Information Office" and to exercise
"governmentwide leadership in assuring coordinated planning and
execution" of these and the "cartographic activities of other Federal
agencies related thereto.. . ." The Map Information Office has
evolved into the National Cartographic Information Center (NCIC).
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OMB Circular A-67, issued by the Bureau of the Budget on August 28,
1964, gives the Department of the Interior (delegated to the Geological
Water Survey) responsibility "for the design and operation of the national
Data network for acquiring data on the quantity and quality of surface and
Coordination round waters, including sediment load of streams," and responsibility
for exercising leadership in achieving effective coordination of
national network and specialized water data acquisition activities."
A memorandum to heads of departments from the Director, Office of
Management and Budget, on April 4, 1983, assigns the Department of
the Interior (delegated to the Geological Survey) the chair of a Federal
Digital Interagency Coordinating Committee on Digital Cartography "to
Cartographic improve the use of digital cartographic base data within the Federal
Data Government and to provide a framework for its proper manage-
ment...." This memorandum is in effect until March 15, 1986.
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Appendix
AUTHORIZING LEGISLATION OF THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
Popular Title
or Subject
Appropriations
Act of 1879
Appropriations
Act of 1889
Appropriations
Act of 1894
Appropriations
Act of 1896
Distribution
of Maps and
Atlases, etc.
Public Law
Number Date
Purpose
None Mar. 3, 1879 Establishes the Geological
Survey for the classification
of the public lands and exam-
ination of the geological
structure, mineral resources,
and products of the national
domain.
(43 U.S.C. 31(a))
Authorizes the publication,
exchange, and sale of geolog-
ical and economic maps, and
reports on general and econo-
mic geology and paleontology.
(43 U.S.C. 41)
None Oct. 2, 1888 Provides for chemical and
physical research as part of
geologic investigations, and
for topographic surveys.
None Aug. 18, 1894 Provides for gaging streams
and determining the water
supply.
None June 11, 1896 Authorizes the establishment
and location of permanent
benchmarks used in making
topographic surveys.
(43 U.S.C. 38)
Pub. Res. 13 Feb. 18, 1897
54th Congress
Authorizes the publication of
Geological Survey reports on
gaging of streams and methods
of utilizing water resources.
(44 U.S.C. 1318)
Authorizes the Director to
distribute the topographic
and geologic maps and atlases
of the United States, and pro-
vides also that a copy of each
map and atlas shall be sent to
each member of Congress.
(43 U.S.C. 42 and 43)
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AUTHORIZING LEGISLATION OF THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY (Continued)
Popular Title Public Law
or Subject Number Date Purpose
Joint Pub. Res. 22 May 16, 1902 Authorizes publication by the
Resolution of 57th Congress Geological Survey of water
May 16, 1902 supply and irrigation papers.
(44 U.S.C. 1318)
Sale of Data Pub. Law 383 June 30, 1906
59th Congress
Authorizes the Geological
Survey to furnish copies of
maps to any person, concern,
institution, State, or foreign
government, with receipts to
be deposited in the general
fund of the Treasury.
(43 U.S.C. 44)
Production Pub. Law 328 Mar. 4, 1909 Authorizes the Director to
and Sale of 60th Congress produce and sell copies of
Photographs photographs, mosaics, and
and Records other official records.
(43 U.S.C. 45)
USGS Share of Pub. Law 100 Mar. 7, 1928
Cost for Work 70th Congress
in Cooperation
with State and
Local Governments
Extension Pub. Law 29 June 17, 1935
of Cooper- 74th Congress
ative Work to
Puerto Rico
Production Pub. Law 206 July 21, 1947
and Sale of 80th Congress
Photographs
and Records
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Directs that the Geological
Survey share in any topo-
graphic mapping or water
resources investigations
carried out in cooperation
with any State or municipality
shall not exceed 50 percent of
that cost.
(43 U.S.C. 50)
Authorizes the Geological
Survey to make topographic and
geologic surveys and to con-
duct investigations relating
to mineral and water resources
in Puerto Rico.
(43 U.S.C. 49)
Authorizes the Director to
produce and sell copies of
aerial photographs and
provides for receipts to be
deposited in the Treasury to
the credit of the current
appropriations.
(43 U.S.C. 45)
AUTHORIZING LEGISLATION OF THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY (Continued)
Popular Title Public Law
or Subject Number Date
Standard- Pub. Law 242 July 25, 1947
ization of 80th Congress
Geographic
Names
Purpose
Directs the Secretary* to
assume responsibility for all
functions relating to domestic
geographic names, including
staff support to the interde-
partmental U.S. Board of
Geographic Names.
(43 U.S.C. 364)
Appropriations Pub. Law 470 July 9, 1952 Authorizes payment of compen-
Act of Fiscal 82nd Congress sation and expenses of persons
Year 1953 on the rolls of the Geological
Survey appointed to represent
the United States in the nego-
tiation and administration of
interstate compacts. (Same
administrative provision
appears in current appropria-
tions acts.)
Mineral P.L. 85-701 Aug. 21, 1958
Discovery Loan
Program Act of
1958
Authorizes the Secretary* to
provide a program for explor-
ation by private industry
within the United States, its
territories and possessions,
for minerals, excluding organ-
ic fuels, and to provide
Federal financial assistance.
(30 U.S.C. 641) (Activities
under the Act not funded since
1974.)
Appropriations P.L. 85-743 Aug. 23, 1958 Authorizes the Secretary* to
Act of Fiscal perform surveys, investiga-
Year 1959 tions and research in geology,
biology, minerals and water
resources, and mapping in
Antarctica and the Trust
Territories of the Pacific
Islands.
(43 U.S.C. 1457 note)
Acquisition of P.L. 86-406 Apr. 4, 1960 Authorizes the Secretary to
Lands for Use acquire lands on behalf of the
in Gaging Geological Survey for use in
Streams and gaging streams and underground
Underground resources.
Resources (43 U.S.C. 36b)
*The Secretary of the Interior has assigned responsibility to the Director,
U.S. Geological Survey.
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AUTHORIZING LEGISLATION OF THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY (Continued)
Popular Title Public Law
or Subject Number Date
Purpose
Examination of P.L. 87-626 Sep. 5, 1962 Authorizes the examination of
the Geological the geological structure,
Structure Outside mineral resources, and pro -
the National ducts outside the national
Domain domain.
(43 U.S.C. 31(b))
Wilderness Act P.L. 88-577 Sep. 3, 1964 Authorizes the Geological
of 1964 Survey and Bureau of Mines to
assess the mineral resources
of each area proposed or
established as wilderness if
no prior mineral survey was
done.
(16 U.S.C. 1131)
Delmarva P.L. 89-618 Oct. 4, 1966 Authorizes the Secretary*
Peninsula to make a comprehensive
Hydrologic 5-year study and investigation
Study of the water resources of
the Delmarva Peninsula.
(42 U.S.C. 1962d-7)
Classes and P.L. 90-620 Oct. 22, 1968 Requires that publications of
Sizes of the Geological Survey shall
Publications include maps, folios, and
atlases required by law.
Further provides for printing
and reprinting of Geological
Survey reports and distribu-
tion to Congress and the
Library of Congress.
(44 U.S.C. 1318)
Also authorizes the Geological
Survey to send publications to
public libraries.
(44 U.S.C. 1320)
Federal Water P.L. 92-500 Oct. 18, 1972 Directs EPA to have a water
Pollution quality surveillance system
Control Act that will use the resources of
Amendments of the Geological Survey.
1972 (33 U.S.C. 1254(a))
* The Secretary of the Interior has assigned responsibility to the Director,
U.S. Geological Survey.
Site
AUTHORIZING LEGISLATION OF THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY (Continued)
Popular Title
or Subject
Flood Disaster
Protection Act
of 1973
Public Law
Number Date
P.L. 93-234 Dec. 31, 1973
Purpose
Directs the Secretary of the
Interior (through the U.S.
Geological Survey) and heads
of other Federal departments
and agencies to give high -
priority assistance to the
Secretary of HUD in the
mapping of flood -hazard areas
and flood -risk zones.
(42 U.S.C. 4101c)
Geothermal P.L. 93-410 Sep. 3, 1974 Directs the Geological Survey
Energy Research, to provide a schedule and
Development and objectives for inventorying
Demonstration geothermal resources, and
Act of 1974 names the Survey as the action
agency, in support of the
Geothermal Energy Coordination
and Management Project, for
developing a plan for a re-
source inventory, conducting
regional surveys, and publish-
ing maps.
(30 U.S.C. 1121 et. seq.)
Federal Land P.L. 94-579 Oct. 21, 1976 Authorizes the Geological
Policy and Survey and the Bureau of Mines
Management Act to do a mineral survey by 1991
of 1976 of each area BLM recommends
for wilderness study.
(43 U.S.C. 1782)
Surface Mining
Control and
Reclamation Act
of 1977
Earthquake
Hazards Reduction
Act of 1977
P.L. 95-87 Aug. 3, 1977 Establishes an Advisory
Committee on Mining and Miner-
al Research under the State
mining and mineral resources
and research institutes pro-
gram, with the Director of the
Geological Survey as a member.
(30 U.S.C. 1229(a))
P.L. 95-124 Oct. 7, 1977
Directs the Geological Survey
to be part of an earthquake
hazards reduction program,
which encompasses prediction,
hazards reduction, and
research.
(42 U.S.C. 7701 et seq.)
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AUTHORIZING LEGISLATION OF THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY (Continued)
t
0
Popular Title Public Law
or Subject Number Date Purpose
Earthquake P.L. 96-472 Oct. 199 1980 Authorizes the Director to
Hazards Reduction issue earthquake predictions
Act Amendments of or advisories after notifying
1980 FEMA.
(42 U.S.C. 7704(f))
Alaska National P.L. 96-487 Dec. 2, 1980 Authorizes the Secretary* to
Interest Lands assess oil and gas and other
Conservation Act mineral resources on Federal
lands in Alaska.
(16 U.S.C. 3150)
Appropriations P.L. 97-394 Dec. 30, 1982 Authorizes the Geological
Act of Fiscal Survey to accept contributions
Year 1983 from public and private
sources.
Nuclear Waste P.L. 97-425 Jan. 7, 1983 Authorizes the Geological
Policy Act of Survey to act in a consulta-
1982 tive and review role to the
DOE for siting, building, and
operating high-level radio-
active waste repositories.
(42 U.S.C. 10101 et. seq.)
Appropriations P.L. 98-146 Nov. 4, 1983 Authorizes the Geological
Act of Fiscal Survey to retain receipts from
Year 1984 the sale of all published
maps. Also transfers
responsibility for issuing
grants to State water
resources research institutes
from the Office of Water
Policy to the Geological
Survey.
Water Resources P.L. 98-242 Mar. 22, 1984 Authorizes the Secretary* to
Research Act make grants to water resources
of 1984 research institutes for
research and training and to
make matching grants to aca-
demic institutions, State or
local governments, or the
private sector for water
research and technology
development.
(42 U.S.C. 10301)
* The Secretary of the Interior has assigned responsibility to the Director,
U.S. Geological Survey.
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AUTHORIZING LEGISLATION OF THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY (Continued)
Popular Title
or Subject
Land Remote
Sensing
Commercialization
Act of 1984
Barrow Gas
Field Transfer
Act of 1984
High Plains
States Ground-
water Demonstra-
tion Program Act
of 1983
Hazardous and
Solid Waste
Amendments of
1984
Public Law
Number Date
P.L. 98-365 July 17, 1984
P.L. 98-366 July 17, 1984
P.L. 98-434 Sep. 28, 1984
Purpose
Encourages continued research
in remote sensing in the
Department of the Interior;
the legislative report recom-
mends utilization of the EROS
Data Center as a remote sens-
ing data archive.
(15 U.S.C. 4201)
Authorizes the Secretary to
transfer the Barrow gas fields
to the North Slope Borough of
Alaska, and requires the
Geological Survey to provide
follow-up assistance to the
North Slope Borough.
Authorizes the Bureau of
Reclamation to establish
demonstration projects for
ground -water recharge of
aquifers in the High Plains
States and directs the Bureau
to consult with the Geological
Survey and other agencies in
the two-phase program.
(43 U.S.C. 390g)
P.L. 98-616 Nov. 8, 1984 Provides for establishment of
a National Ground Water
Commission (NGWC); the
Director of the Geological
Survey is to provide, if
requested by NGWC, personnel
on a reimbursable basis.
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