USGS Data Lifecycle Diagram

Data Release / Embargo

Data Release

In February 2012, the Community for Data Integration (CDI) created a new working group called the Data Release Working Group, which is focused on addressing the release of USGS data.

Most often external scientists, other agencies, and organizations request data from the USGS for analysis or integration with their databases and datasets. Additionally, journals and publishers are increasingly requiring release of raw data to accompany approved publication.

This working group will work to develop an automated system to authoritatively answer the question, "Can this data be released?"

Data Embargo

Setting a guideline for data releases or establishing data embargos can be useful tools for data producers to manage and analyze their data before sharing.

A data embargo is a policy in which data are submitted to a repository with the understanding that they will not be publically released for a specified amount of time. Some repositories have the capacity to prevent access until release to the public is approved and agreements about the terms of the embargo should be specified between the repository and the contributor.

Utilizing an embargo policy can minimize risks to the data producer and therefore encourages data sharing.

Best Practices

• Search the chosen repository for guidelines on data embargos for data producers.
• Set clear dates for the data embargo and formalize this understanding with the repository.
• See Preserve > Repositories for more information.