1. Purpose and Scope. The scientific reputation of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for excellence, integrity, and objectivity is one of the Bureau's most important assets. This reputation for reliable science brings authority to data and findings, creates and protects long-term credibility, and ensures that the public trust is met.

This chapter establishes the foundation for a set of fundamental principles that are detailed in accompanying policy chapters. These fundamental principles underlie USGS science practices, uphold the Bureau's scientific reputation, and underscore its mandate to provide reliable science to address pressing societal issues.

These USGS Fundamental Science Practices (FSP) apply to all USGS employees and to all science activities funded by the USGS, uniformly and consistently across the Bureau. They address how scientific activities are planned and conducted (see SM 502.2). They promote the broad release and communication of the results of USGS science activities in information products (see SM 1100.1) that are appropriately reviewed and approved (see SM 502.3 and SM 502.4). The choice of what work is to be accomplished, however, remains the purview of the USGS science planning process. Policies and practices with regard to science planning, which include proposals, are governed by the USGS Bureau Program Council (see internal guidance).

2. Authority. The USGS, in fulfillment of the scientific mission in its Organic Act, is authorized and obligated to safeguard scientific excellence, integrity, and objectivity and to ensure the effective dissemination and public communication of its science.

3. References.

A. SM 502.2 - Fundamental Science Practices: Planning and Conducting Data Collection and Research
B. SM 502.3 - Fundamental Science Practices: Peer Review
C. SM 502.4 - Fundamental Science Practices: Review, Approval, and Release of Information Products
D. SM 205.18 - Authority to Approve Information Products
E. USGS, Guidelines for Ensuring the Quality of Information Disseminated to the Public
F. Fundamental Science Practices of the USGS (July 2004 Memoranda, internal only)

4. Policy.

USGS Fundamental Science Practices govern how scientific investigations, research, and activities are planned and conducted and how information products are reviewed and approved for release and dissemination. Policies and responsibilities for USGS Fundamental Science Practices are detailed in accompanying chapters (see SM 502.2, SM 502.3, and SM 502.4). These policies represent the minimum requirements to which all USGS organizational units must adhere. Individual organizational units may implement more stringent requirements as they deem necessary.

5. Responsibilities. USGS Fundamental Science Practices are the collective and shared responsibility of everyone in the USGS. Designated officials have specific roles, authorities, and functions in establishing the policies that underpin these practices:

A. Director. The Director has final authority and responsibility for USGS Fundamental Science Practices and for the excellence, integrity, and objectivity of USGS science and of its information products.

B. Associate Directors. Associate Directors set policy for how scientific investigations, research, and activities are carried out and how information products are reviewed and approved for release and dissemination. They provide oversight for the processes and policies that govern USGS Fundamental Science Practices. They collaborate with Regional Directors to address issues or take corrective action with regard to these policies.

C. Regional Directors. Regional Directors execute the policies of USGS Fundamental Science Practices, including the appointing of officials who approve information products for release (see SM 205.18). They collaborate with Associate Directors to address issues or take corrective action regarding the execution of these policies.

D. Geospatial Information Office. The Geospatial Information Office maintains the policy documents and procedures that pertain to USGS Fundamental Science Practices.