About Water Resources

The Water Resources Discipline is one of four science disciplines of the USGS. The WRD mission is to provide reliable, impartial, timely information that is needed to understand the Nation's water resources. WRD actively promotes the use of this information by decision makers to —>

• Minimize loss of life and property as a result of water-related natural hazards, such as floods, droughts, and land movement.
• Effectively manage ground-water and surface-water resources for domestic, agricultural, commercial, industrial, recreational, and ecological uses.
• Protect and enhance water resources for human health, aquatic health, and environmental quality.
• Contribute to wise physical and economic development of the Nation's resources for the benefit of present and future generations.

We are a workforce of 4300 people located in all 50 states at a total of 179 locations, working with 1300 State and local agency cooperators.

I'm delighted that you've decided to take a closer look at all we offer.

Matthew C. Larsen, Ph.D.
USGS Associate Director for Water, Water Resources Discipline (WRD)

Useful Links:

• Selected Podcasts about water
• Associate Director for Water
• WRD Organizational Chart
• Directory of Key Officials
• Water Science Center Directors
• WRD History
• Other Water Resources Offices
• Visitor Center at USGS Headquarters (includes directions)
• USGS Library
• USGS Electronic Phonebook