Jason Burton
Science and Products
Drought May Lead to Elevated Levels of Naturally Occurring Arsenic in Private Domestic Wells
An estimated 4.1 million people in the lower 48 states are potentially exposed to arsenic levels that exceed EPA’s drinking water standards
Parts of US’s Southernmost States will “Tropicalize” as Climate Changes
Cold-sensitive plants, animals moving north due to fewer, weaker winter freezes
Invasive Zebra Mussels Found in Pet Stores in 21 States
A citizen’s report of an invasive zebra mussel found in an aquarium moss package found in a pet store prompted a U.S. Geological Survey expert on invasive aquatic species to trigger nationwide alerts that have led to the discovery of the destructive shellfish in pet stores in at least 21 states from Alaska to Florida.
US Mines Produced an Estimated $82.3 Billion in Minerals During 2020
U.S. mines produced approximately $82.3 billion in minerals in 2020— about $1.5 billion lower than the 2019 revised total of $83.7 billion—the U.S. Geological Survey announced February 2.
Zeta’s Strong Waves Will Cause Coastal Change Along the Gulf Coast
Editor’s note: This story was updated Oct. 28 reflecting a new coastal change forecast for Zeta's impacts on Gulf Coast sandy shorelines.
USGS Deploying Storm Tide Sensors Along Gulf Coast for Hurricane Delta
To learn more about USGS’s role in providing science to decision-makers before, during and after Hurricane Delta, visit the USGS Hurricane Delta page at www.usgs.gov/delta.
Earth MRI Funds Critical Minerals Projects in Florida
A total of $100,000 will fund new research and preserve important data across the Sunshine State
USGS Crews Work to Measure Record Flooding Caused By Sally
To learn more about USGS’s role in providing science to decision-makers before, during, and after Hurricane Sally, visit usgs.gov/sally.
Sally expected to alter Gulf Coast Beaches from Louisiana to Alabama
Editor's Note: This updated story reflects the latest coastal change forecast for September 15, 2020.
To learn more about USGS’s role in providing science to decision makers before, during and after Hurricane Sally, visit usgs.gov/sally.
September is National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month, a time for Americans to review their preparedness plans for disasters or emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. It’s also historically the peak of hurricane season.
Track Potential Flooding from Laura with USGS Flood Event Viewer
To learn more about USGS’s role in providing science to decision makers before, during and after Hurricane Laura, visit www.usgs.gov/laura
Magnitude 5.1 Earthquake Near Sparta, North Carolina
A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck near Sparta, North Carolina August 9, 2020 at 8:07 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time. Seismic instruments indicate the earthquake originated at a depth of about 2.3 miles. The USGS currently estimates there is a low likelihood of casualties or damage from this earthquake.