USGS Visual Identity System
Use of the Trademarked USGS Identifier by Non-USGS OrganizationsRevised May 11, 2006 The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has cooperative partnerships and contractual agreements with many non-USGS organizations (for example, another government agency, a commercial company, or an educational institution) that often result in the creation of various information products. The USGS encourages the use of our identifier on these products. If non-USGS organizations plan to use the USGS identifier, they must comply with, as appropriate, the USGS Visual Identity System (VIS) guidelines, including use of the trademarked USGS identifier and any applicable product-specific VIS guidelines. If you are a member of a non-USGS organization that has a contract agreement with the USGS to develop information products to be released by the USGS, you must follow the VIS guidelines and specifications. You may obtain copies of them from your USGS contact. If you are a member of a non-USGS organization that is in partnership with the USGS to produce a cooperative or joint information product, please work with your USGS client or contact to determine how each partner will be identified on the product. For additional guidance on the proper use of the identifier and other applicable VIS guidelines, send an email to visual_id@usgs.gov. If you are a member of a non-USGS organization requesting use of the USGS identifier or USGS identification products in film, TV, or theater productions, you must submit your request to Barbara Wainman, Chief, USGS Office of Communications, 119 National Center, 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20192. If you are a member of a non-USGS organization and wish to acknowledge or credit the USGS as the source of information you are using, refer to http://www.usgs.gov/visual-id/credit_usgs.html for guidance. The USGS IdentifierBelow is general information on the USGS identifier, who may use it, when it may be used, and how to request a copy of it. The identifier consists of three parts: a monogram of the letters "USGS," a symbolic mark, and the motto "science for a changing world." Key elements for ensuring its proper use include the following:
Who May Use the IdentifierThe identifier may be used by USGS staff and by members of non-USGS organizations that have a partnership or contractual agreement with the USGS that will result in the creation of an information product. When the Identifier May Be UsedThe identifier may be used on print, electronic, digital, exhibit, and display information products. The USGS reserves the right to review the circumstances under which a non-USGS organization plans to use the identifier and to prohibit the use of the identifier. Requesting the IdentifierA non-USGS organization must request a copy of the identifier through its USGS client or contact. To ensure that you obtain the appropriate identifier file when making your request, submit the following information:
If you have questions or need further assistance, contact visual_id@usgs.gov. |