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How are raw data handled? [092]

By Office of Science Quality and Integrity

Raw data refers to digital and nondigital data that are unprocessed and unverified. Raw data must be archived according to the USGS records disposition schedule, can be released as either provisional or approved data, and may be subject to FOIA requirements. [Read more]

"Raw data" refers to digital and nondigital data that are unprocessed and unverified. Examples include field observations and unaltered output from sensors. Retention of raw data is important in support of reproducible science and for recovering from processing errors. Raw data must be archived according to the USGS records disposition schedule and can be released as either provisional or approved data according to the USGS policy on data release (SM 502.8). Raw data may also be subject to FOIA requirements. In the event such data are requested, contact the USGS FOIA Officer for additional guidance.