Are there any restrictions on using the trademarked National Atlas data and maps?

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Welcome to CoreFacts, where we're always short on time and big on science. I'm Steve Sobieszczyk. Today's question is a good one.

Are there any restrictions on using the trademarked National Atlas data and maps?

No, not usually. Nearly all information collected by the Federal Government is in the public domain and use of raw data produced for the National Atlas is not restricted in any way. Both "National Atlas of the United States®" and "The National Atlas of the United States of America®" are registered trademarks of the United States Department of the Interior. The USGS has been publishing National Atlas products since 1970 and has simply taken action to trademark this term to incorporate all new graphic and electronic products of The National Atlas of the United States of America®.

Although the content of most National Atlas web pages is in the public domain, some pages may contain material that is copyrighted by others and used by the National Atlas with permission. You may need to obtain permission from the copyright owner for other uses. Furthermore, some non-National Atlas data, products, and information linked, or referred to, from this site may be protected under U.S. and foreign copyright laws. You may need to obtain permission from the copyright owner to acquire, use, reproduce, or distribute these materials.

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