Our science reflects the many ways in which science informs modern policy, planning, and management. Our researchers pursue relevant and objective research and new approaches and technologies, to build scientific knowledge and provide understanding and tools for wise management and conservation of wetlands and aquatic ecosystems and their associated plant and animal communities.
Using Genetics to Understand Imperiled and Invasive Species
USGS scientists use a variety of genetic techniques, including eDNA, to help inform imperiled and invasive species management.
Geospatial Support for Wetland and Aquatic Ecosystem Issues
WARC 's expertise in geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and other computer based technologies helps address a wide range of natural resource related issues.
Science Topics
FAQs
What is the "Ring of Fire"?
Most earthquakes and volcanic eruptions do not strike randomly but occur in specific areas, such as along plate boundaries. One such area is the circum-Pacific Ring of Fire, where the Pacific Plate meets many surrounding tectonic plates. The Ring of Fire is the most seismically and volcanically active zone in the world. Learn more: USGS Volcano Hazards Program
Could a large tsunami happen in the United States?
Large tsunamis have occurred in the United States and will undoubtedly occur again. Significant earthquakes around the Pacific rim have generated tsunamis that struck Hawaii, Alaska, and the U.S. west coast. One of the largest and most devastating tsunamis that Hawaii has experienced was in 1946 from an earthquake along the Aleutian subduction zone. Runup heights reached a maximum of 33 to 55 feet...
Is there a system to warn populations of an imminent occurrence of a tsunami?
NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) maintains the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centers, and work in conjunction with USGS seismic networks to help determine when and where to issue tsunami warnings. Also, if an earthquake meets certain criteria for potentially generating a tsunami, the pop-up window and the event page for that earthquake on the USGS Latest Earthquakes Map will include a...
Education
Call for Citizen Scientists! Help USGS and Partners Monitor Diamondback Terrapins
USGS scientists and partners are turning to citizen scientists in the Florida Panhandle to help provide the information that is needed to better understand the only turtle species that lives in brackish environments.