Search View United States Geological Survey

To find a specific word, name, or topic in this article, select the option in your Web browser for finding within the page. In Internet Explorer, this option is under the Edit menu.

The search seeks the exact word or phrase that you type, so if you don’t find your choice, try searching for a key word in your topic or recheck the spelling of a word or name.

United States Geological Survey

United States Geological Survey (USGS), research agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior, established in 1879. It is responsible for interpreting and mapping the geology, hydrology, and topography of the United States and its territories and for investigating and appraising mineral, energy, and water resources. The agency investigates such natural hazards as volcanoes, earthquakes, and landslides. It performs scientific research and publishes the results of its studies.