About

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) plays a critical role in ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources through comprehensive monitoring and research. USGS science helps water managers ensure that water supplies for housing, industry, energy, agriculture, and recreation are available and safe for today and for the future of this Nation.

The USGS is both a data collection agency and a scientific research agency. The USGS operates over 13,500 monitoring sites across the Nation, providing real-time data about our waterways. We have in-house scientific experts who study critical water issues, including streamflow, groundwater, water quality, and water use.
 
Here are some of the ways USGS science helps you:

• The National Weather Service uses USGS data for flood warnings and flood modelling and dynamic mapping, which helps protect lives and property.

• Dams operators with the Army Corps of Engineers, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission use USGS data to manage our water resources, ensuring water availability for humans and protecting sensitive species downstream.

• FEMA uses USGS data for flood maps that flood insurance rates are based upon and for guiding recovery efforts after major storms.

• Food and water security: USGS monitoring gages ensure water managers have the tools needed to manage our water supply for domestic, public, agricultural, and industrial uses.

• USGS data is used in the design of resilient bridges and roads, saving taxpayer money.

• Understanding the water quality of our waterways ensures cleaner water for humans and wildlife.

• When water rights and water agreement disputes arise between states, unbiased USGS data can help resolve conflicts.

• Providing economic value for the recreation community: Kayakers, canoers, and fishers use our data to help keep their activities safe.

• Scientific research helps us understand our world.