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USGS Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's about Geographic Place Names (GNIS)
How can I acquire Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) data?
What does the "Topo Map Name" mean in the Geographic Names Information System?
How often is the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) Database updated?
What constitutes the United States, what are the official definitions?
I need to know the official names and definitions (extents) of regions. For example, what is “the Midwest,” “the South,” etc?
What is a variant name?
Why are there no ZIP Codes in the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) Database?
How are U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps named?
All of the coordinates (latitude and longitude) in Geographic Names Information System seem incorrect. What is the problem?
How do I find (a town, place, feature, etc.)?
What does the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) classification “historical” mean?
Does the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) Database contain entries for geographic features that are historical?
How accurate is the elevation data in the Geographic Names Information System Database? How was it measured?
I have heard that the use of the apostrophe “s”, such as Pike’s Peak (Pikes Peak in the database) to show possession is not allowed in geographic names, so why are there many such entries in the Geographic Names Information System Database?
What are the territories of the United States?
What is the longest community name in the United States?
What is the difference between "mountain", "hill", and "peak"; "lake" and "pond"; or "river" and "creek"?
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