Who We Are and What We Do

Molecular Ecology Lab

Faced with the complexities and growing urgency of natural resource issues, land and resource managers need information that is accurate, current, and usable. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Fort Collins Science Center (FORT) in Colorado fulfills this need by providing sound scientific data and technical assistance to Department of the Interior bureaus and other natural resource agencies.

Our research and support staff of over 240 professionals work closely with federal, state, territorial, and tribal agencies; universities; and private organizations to generate science products and services relevant to clients’ needs. Although most staff work at our center in Fort Collins, a number of scientists are collocated with federal and university partners to further collaborate efforts (see Connect for field office locations).
Research at the Fort Collins Science Center focuses on questions in the realms of social and economic analysis, fish and wildlife, ecosystem change and disturbance, land management, biological threats and invasive species, tools and techniques, and web application development.
Our products and services include research reports and journal publications; predictive models, software, and decision tools; Web applications; maps and GIS products; seminars, workshops, and training; and technical assistance. Our News highlights current activities and research on particular topics.
Specialized facilities include the Molecular Ecology Laboratory, the USGS John Wesley Powell Center for Science and Analysis, and the Resource for Advanced Modeling.