May I contribute code to open-source projects, and if so, how should I identify and document my contributions? [136]

Yes. USGS contributions of custom-developed code to existing software licensed through third-party entities are encouraged. However, when possible, these contributions should be annotated as freely available in the public domain. 

The USGS employees may choose to structure their contributions so that specific components, such as a statistical algorithm or function, are available in the public domain. It is a best practice, when possible, for USGS software authors to document their contributions in the codebase of the open-source project as those of a Federal Government employee. Commonly, this can be handled effectively through a code management tool, in which USGS contributions will be made from a USGS repository/fork and can include USGS documentation. Conversely, the use of any copyrighted code in USGS software products requires written permission from the copyright holder and a statement indicating the copyrighted material is used with permission (refer to SM 1100.6).