News
Featured Stories
Dive into the world of science! Read these stories and narratives to learn about news items, hot topics, expeditions underway, and much more.
The Water-Energy Nexus: An Earth Science Perspective
Along with many countries around the world, the United States faces two significant, and sometimes competing, challenges: (1) providing sustainable supplies of freshwater for humans and ecosystems and (2) ensuring adequate sources of energy for future generations.
USGS Engravings Offered to the Public
From the 1880s to the 1950s, the U. S. Geological Survey used engraved copper plates in the process of printing many thousands of topographic and geographic quadrangle maps at several map scales.
More Than 18 Million Served
The U.S. Geological Survey, through the National Geospatial Program, has delivered more than 18 million US Topo quadrangles and Historic Topographic Maps in the past six years.
Secretly Stashed Afghanistan Gold Maps Emerge
USGS scientists realized that it was not enough to produce maps and reports that would gather dust if no one was trained to use them.
One Year Later – The Oso Landslide in Washington
A large landslide occurred in northwest Washington on March 22, 2014, leading to tragic loss of life and destruction of property.
Climate Change, Coastal Tribes and Indigenous Communities
Sea level rise, associated with climate change, is threatening natural resources, communities and cultures across the United States, its territories and freely associated states.
USGS Marks 136 Years of Science for America
Recognizing that fundamental knowledge of the land is essential for an effective government and a productive economy, the 45th Congress and President Hayes established the U.S. Geological Survey 136 years ago, on March 3, 1879.
Using Every Drop of Information: the Open Water Data Initiative
“Water, water everywhere, nor any drop to drink,” intoned the fictional Ancient Mariner as he looked hopelessly over an empty ocean.
What’s on the Menu for Arctic Polar Bears?
Twenty years ago, biologists could pretty much describe a polar bear’s diet in two words: ringed seals.
The Quality of the Nation’s Groundwater
About 115 million people—more than one-third of the Nation’s population—rely on groundwater for drinking water. As the Nation’s population grows, the need for high-quality drinking-water supplies becomes even more urgent.
Landsat Seen as Stunning Return on Public Investment
Orbiting Earth more than 400 miles away in space, far from human view
Natural Hazards of 2014
Going into the New Year, the USGS reflects on the natural hazards of 2014 as a reminder of the dangers we face and the need for preparedness to save lives and property.