Science Features
Update (8/28/2012): There’s an update to the latest information on Hurricane Isaac.
The U.S. Geological Survey is keeping careful watch as Tropical Storm Isaac continues to track northwest toward the west coast of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. Along with federal partners, the agency is taking actions to help minimize potential risks to lives and property.
Before, during and after any hurricane or tropical storm affecting the United States, the USGS is involved in measuring the height and intensity of the storm surge, and monitoring water levels of inland rivers and streams, providing critical information used to forecast floods. Using state-of-the-art modeling, the USGS is also involved in forecasting coastal change caused by storm surge, assessing the likelihood of beach erosion, overwash or inundation.
USGS Streamgaging Network at the Ready
The USGS, in cooperation with local, state and federal agencies, operates long-term sensor networks on inland rivers and streams throughout the nation. These networks provide real-time data important to the National Weather Service, FEMA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other USGS partners involved in issuing flood and evacuation warnings, coordinating emergency responses to communities, and operating flood-control reservoirs.
Data from the USGS Streamgaging Network are routinely used for water supply and management, monitoring floods and droughts, bridge and road design, determination of flood risk, and for many recreational activities. However, during a storm’s landfall, this network helps capture the depth and duration of storm-surge, as well as the forecasted time of its arrival and retreat. Understanding storm surge allows for more accurate modeling and prediction capabilities and for improved structure designs and response for public safety. Inland streamgages also are used to track the rainfall and flooding caused by the remnants of the storm.
Storm tide sensor bracket mounted on a fishing pier at the Fairhope Municipal Pier and Park in Fairhope, AL.
USGS crews are on alert. Immediately after the worst of the storm has passed, USGS hydrologists will deploy to measure high-water marks at rivers and streams and to verify high river flows and peak stages. The crews will also calibrate and repair streamgages damaged by the storm to ensure they continued to transmit information in real time to users working to protect lives and property.
Information on streamflow and water levels may be especially important in Florida, where the water levels of many rivers are still high from Tropical Storm Debby’s heavy rainfall in June.
USGS Deploys Additional Storm Surge Sensors on Northern Gulf Coast
Storm surges are increases in ocean water levels generated at sea by extreme storms and can have devastating coastal impacts. Prior to extreme weather events, the USGS may also deploy storm surge sensors at key coastal locations just a few days – or sometimes hours — before a Hurricane or Tropical Storm’s anticipated landfall. These storm surge sensors, housed in vented steel pipes a few inches wide and about a foot long, are installed on bridges, piers and other structures that have a good chance of surviving a storm surge during a hurricane. The number of sensors installed and their locations depend on the strength of the storm as well as what gages may already be in place.
In preparation for Tropical Storm Isaac, the USGS is already installing a small number of additional sensors in the northern Gulf coast area. If the storm reaches these sensors, they will record water level and barometric pressure every 30 seconds to document storm-surge crests – or waves of water – as they make landfall. Data will be uploaded to the USGS Hurricane Storm Tide Sensor Map if significant storm-tide is recorded. Following the storm, USGS crews will retrieve these sensors and begin to analyze the data.
Together, the USGS Streamgaging Network and the mobile USGS storm surge sensors provide critical data to the National Weather Service, FEMA and other USGS partners involved in issuing flood and evacuation warnings and in coordinating emergency responses to communities. In the event of a large tropical storm event, storm surge information will also help public officials assess storm damage, discern between wind and flood damage, and improve computer models used to forecast future floods.
Screenshot of interactive map which illustrates areas vulnerable to erosion during a Category 1 hurricane landfall.
Monitoring Coastal Change
Sand overwash, which occurs when waves and storm surge overtop dunes and transport sand landward, is a likely impact of hurricanes and tropical storms. The severity of erosion and overwash depends on the strength of the storm, beach elevation, and how direct a hit the coast takes.
While it’s difficult to tell where exactly the storm is headed or what its impacts may be, USGS scientists are using state-of-the art models to give emergency managers and local residents an accurate picture of what coastal changes are likely to occur if the tropical storm makes landfall along the Gulf Coast of the United States.
A new USGS report determines the probabilities of dune erosion, overwash and inundation during direct hurricane landfall for sandy beaches along the entire U.S. Gulf Coast shoreline. This report includes a publicly available interactive map which anyone can use to focus on different parts of Gulf Coast shoreline and view how the likelihood of erosion changes depending on hurricane intensity.
This model shows that during the landfall of a Category1 storm, where winds are between 75 and 94 miles per hour, overwash is very likely for 70 percent of Gulf Coast beaches. Overwash is likely at these locations because of increased water levels at the shoreline. During Category1 hurricane events on the Gulf Coast, wave height and storm surge combine to increase water levels at the shoreline by 14 and a half feet higher than their normal levels.
A hotel in Orange Beach, Alabama, was toppled during Hurricane Ivan in 2004. USGS science aims to reduce such damage by informing the public about which parts of the coasts face the most danger to buildings, infrastructure, and danger in the face of an oncoming storm.
Because Tropical Storm Isaac’s current path is forecasted to affectthe entire Florida Gulf Coast, USGS scientists are using data on coastal features –like dune height and beach slope – and models of hurricane waves and surge to predict the likely impact of storms on gulf coast beaches. Learn more about the initial assessment of potential coastal-change impacts in Florida.
Tracking River Levels in Real Time
All information from USGS Nationwide Streamgaging network can be accessed at the USGS WaterWatch website. In a storm, this information can be particularly useful to local residents who want to know how increased rainfall from tropical storm Isaac will impact the rivers and stream in their areas. This site displays maps, graphs and tables that describe current and past streamflow conditions for the United States. The real-time streamflow data are generally updated on an hourly basis.
WaterAlert also allows users to receive updates about groundwater levels, water temperatures, rainfall and water quality at sites where USGS collects real-time water information.
For information on the latest storm track, listen to NOAA radio. For information on preparing for the storm, go to Ready.gov or Listo.gov.
Additional Links/ related areas of USGS study:
Coastal Elevation Data and Research
Coastal Change Hazards: Hurricanes and Extreme Storms
A recent devastating sinkhole in Florida has raised questions and concerns about this phenomenon. Read more
On March 3, the U.S. Geological Survey turned 134. Established by Congress in 1879 and built on a legacy of impartial science, the bureau faces unusual challenges in the near term.
It did, 35 million years ago.
You are encouraged to participate in the Great Central U.S. ShakeOut earthquake drill to be held on Thursday, February 7, 2013. Read more
Landslides and debris flows are common and destructive geologic hazards that can happen every year in every U.S. state. Read more
The USGS is providing up-to-date information. Read more
Washington, D.C., is a unique city full of landmarks and buildings that are recognizable worldwide. But how were these stone giants built? Read more
Hurricane Sandy is a stark reminder of just how essential it is for the Nation to become more resilient to coastal hazards.Read more
The USGS is providing up-to-date information. Read more
The USGS is providing up-to-date information. Read more
Learn about USGS science on the processes that cause coastal change. Read more
USGS crews are out surveying the damage, recovering the sensors deployed before the storm, and collecting data that will be crucial to recovery efforts.
USGS is keeping careful watch as Hurricane Sandy continues to track northeast along the east coast of Florida and the Atlantic coast.
There is an urgent need for steps to mitigate earthquake risk in Burma, as it is not a question of “if” future large earthquakes will occur, but rather “when.” Read more
The USGS has just issued a landslide alert for parts of Maryland, Delaware, and northern Virginia. Read more
The USGS is providing up-to-date information. Read more
USGS is keeping careful watch as Hurricane Sandy continues to track northeast along the east coast of Florida and the Atlantic coast.
The earthquake struck off the west coast in the Pacific. The USGS is providing up-to-date information. Read more
Are you prepared for future earthquakes? Sign up and participate in a worldwide earthquake drill. Read more
Critically endangered birds whose numbers grew rapidly after successful translocations by USGS and USFWS biologists likely took a hit from the 2011 event. Read more
USGS science helps people understand and prepare for natural hazards. Read more
While Hurricane Isaac has passed, scientific work to understand the storm’s impact on Gulf Coast states continues. Read more
A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck near the west coast of Costa Rica on September 5, 2012 at 14:42:10 UTC. Read more
Real-time map showing the extent of flooding (black dots) and drought (red dots) in the U.S. Read more
USGS scientists, engineers, and technicians are working along the Gulf coast in response to Hurricane Isaac. Read more
USGS scientists are providing up-to-date information. Read more
It was one of the largest recorded earthquakes to occur in the east over the last century. Find out what scientists have learned in the past year. Read more
USGS scientists improve systems to monitor and forecast volcanic activity and track volcanic ash to help communities prepare. Read more
These 3 young scientists have forged ahead with innovative research at the frontiers of science. Learn more
The majority of the nation is facing dry conditions; in most areas drought conditions are expected to persist or intensify. Read more
The new “Did You See It?” website collects citizen observations of landslides. Read more
Please comment on the USGS’ draft science strategies! Read more
Citizen volunteers, portable instruments, and real-time maps help improve gathering of and access to earthquake data.Read more
The USGS and partners are designing an earthquake early warning system for California to help save lives and property.
Science or Soundbite? Is the recent increase in midcontinent earthquakes natural or man-made? Find out here.
Timing is everything! Consider helping track changes in spring’s arrival
A magnitude-8.6 earthquake struck off the west coast of northern Sumatra Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at 8:38 a.m., UTC at the epicenter.
A magnitude-7.4 earthquake struck in the Mexican state of Oaxaca Tuesday, March 20, 2012, at 12:02 p.m., local time at the epicenter.
Flood Safety Awareness Week is March. 12-16. What can you do to prepare?
National Groundwater Awareness Week is Mar. 11-17, 2012. See how USGS science is connecting groundwater and surface water.
Since Japan’s March 11, 2011, Tohoku earthquake and subsequent tsunami, scientists at the USGS have learned much to help better prepare for a large earthquake in the United States.
Five USGS employees honored with Distinguished Service Awards for their service to the nation
The proposed USGS budget reflects research priorities to respond to nationally relevant issues, including water quantity and quality, ecosystem restoration, hydraulic fracturing, natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, and support for the National Ocean Policy, and has a large R&D component.
Exploding lakes in Cameroon, Africa, have killed people and livestock. Find out how USGS science is helping prevent such an event from occurring again.
Everyone is familiar with weather systems on earth like rain, wind and snow. But space weather – variable conditions in the space surrounding Earth – has important consequences for our lives inside Earth’s atmosphere.
Scientists and communities are working together to make science more useful and communities safer. What one emergency manager has to say.
Modern volcano monitoring in the United States began with the founding of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory in 1912. Living with volcanoes
Shaking from Oklahoma's M5.6 main shock, the largest quake in the State's history, was felt from St. Louis to Lubbock. Number of quakes increasing in Oklahoma
A magnitude-7.2 earthquake struck eastern Turkey on Sunday, October 23, 2011. History of strong earthquakes
It's only the beginning of their careers, but these 3 young scientists have forged ahead with innovative research at the frontiers of science. How they've transformed their fields
Oct. 9-15, 2011, is Earth Science Week, themed "Our-Ever Changing Earth," and Oct. 12, 2011, is International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction. Answers to questions posed by a changing world
Fire managers and the public can access online maps of current wildfire locations, thanks to a Web-based mapping application provided by the USGS and its partners.
On Feb. 7, 1812, at about 3 a.m., a third, and probably most widely felt of three major earthquakes, occurred in the central Mississippi River Valley. Similar risk today.
Rivers and streams are reaching record levels as a result of Hurricane Irene’s rainfall, with more than 80 USGS streamgages measuring record peaks.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011 at 01:51 PM a 5.8 Earthquake occurred 38 miles outside of Richmond, VA.
A new geologic map of Lassen Volcanic National Park and vicinity has been created. The map area includes the entire Lassen Volcanic Center, parts of three older volcanic centers, and the products of regional volcanism.
To better understand and reduce tsunami hazards, USGS scientists examined sediment deposited by the tsunami in and around Sendai, Japan, as part of an international tsunami survey team organized by Japanese scientific cooperators.
USGS crews continue to measure streamflow and collect water quality and sediment samples in the Ohio and Mississippi River basins using state-of-art instruments.
Many communities in South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Colorado, Wyoming and Iowa are dealing with record floodwaters and bracing for more flooding in the upcoming weeks.
Fire managers and the public can access online maps of current wildfire locations, thanks to a web-based mapping application provided by the USGS and its partners.
New Zealand has experienced another damaging earthquake close to the city of Christchurch, which is still recovering from the magnitude-6.1 earthquake that struck in February. This latest quake has resulted in additional damage to buildings and infrastructure.
The USGS-NASA Landsat 5 satellite captured this image of 39-mile track of destruction caused by a massive tornado on June 1 near Sturbridge, MA.
As hurricane season starts, researchers are modeling potential changes to coastal environments to identify communities vulnerable to extreme erosion during storms. Data collected before and after storm landfall are used to verify past forecasts and improve future predictions.
The effects of the March 11 magnitude 9.0 earthquake and resulting tsunami on Japan are being monitored using Landsat satellite data from the USGS.
The most recent earthquake in Japan affected water levels in groundwater wells all over the country. Water level fluctuations were recorded as far away as Illinois, Virginia, Missouri and Florida.
Volcanic activity continues in the Pu`u `O`o crater on Kilauea Volcano's east rift zone and in the Halema`uma`u Crater vent at Kilauea’s summit. Visit the USGS Hawaii Volcanoes Observatory site to get detailed Kilauea and Mauna Loa activity updates, recent volcano photos, recent earthquakes, and more.
Scientists unveil a catastrophic winter storm scenario that could possibly overwhelm California's flood protection system, and significantly disrupt Statewide social and economic systems.
Heavy rainfall could potentially destabilize hillsides. The USGS Landslide Hazards Web site has what you need to know if you live in an area prone to landslides.
The USGS and the National Weather Service have developed a new flood inundation map tool that enables management officials and residents to see where the potential threat of flooding is the highest along the Flint River near Albany, Georgia.
Volcanic eruptions have always been a part of human history; the American experience is no exception. On November 3rd, USGS’s Dr. John Eichelberger discusses new USGS programs which establish monitoring networks on all hazardous US volcanoes, to reduce the effects of volcanic hazards on communities.
Kilauea is Hawaii's youngest volcano and one of the world's most active. Get daily updates on ongoing eruptions from Kilauea's summit and east rift zone.
Looking for information on natural resources, natural hazards, geospatial data, and more? The USGS Education site provides great resources, including lessons, data, maps, and more, to support teaching, learning, K-12 education, and university-level inquiry and research.
The USGS PAGER system (Prompt Assessment of Global Earthquakes for Response) will now include estimated economic loss and casualty information. This system is used by emergency responders, government and aid officials, and the public to understand the scope of the disaster to develop the best response.
Flash flooding is one of the major causes of natural hazard-related deaths in the United States and is hard to predict, but data collected by the USGS is crucial to formulating better predictive models.
The USGS Science Strategy is a comprehensive report to critically examine the USGS's major science goals and priorities for the coming decade. The USGS is moving forward with these strategic science directions in response to the challenges that our Nation's future faces and for the stewards of our Federal lands.
On March 3, the U.S. Geological Survey turned 134. Established by Congress in 1879 and built on a legacy of impartial science, the bureau faces unusual challenges in the near term.
Manatees are often used as sentinels for emerging threats to the ocean environment and human health. Read more
The extent and distribution of the world’s ice, primarily in the form of glaciers, provide insight about changes in the Earth’s climate and changes in sea-level. Read more
Washington, D.C., is a unique city full of landmarks and buildings that are recognizable worldwide. But how were these stone giants built? Read more
Hurricane Sandy is a stark reminder of just how essential it is for the Nation to become more resilient to coastal hazards.Read more
In honor of Earth Science Week the USGS is taking a look back into history at the scientists who laid the foundation for the innovative earth science research taking place today. Read more
The majority of the nation is still experiencing abnormally dry conditions, even after soaking rains from Isaac. Read more
While Hurricane Isaac has passed, scientific work to understand the storm’s impact on Gulf Coast states continues. Read more
Real-time map showing the extent of flooding (black dots) and drought (red dots) in the U.S. Read more
USGS scientists, engineers, and technicians are working along the Gulf coast in response to Hurricane Isaac. Read more
Fifteen years of data illuminate complex interactions driving land change in Puerto Rico. Read more
USGS scientists look to see if water quality is improving. Read more
The majority of the nation is facing dry conditions; in most areas drought conditions are expected to persist or intensify. Read more
Kati is a USGS student employee studying water and traveling the California coast. Read more
This year, a large dead zone again threatens the Gulf of Mexico. Read more
Please comment on the USGS’ draft science strategies! Read more
Are you surprised the water bubbles look so small? Read more
USGS Details how climate change could affect water availability in 14 U.S. Basins. Read more
Travis Gibson shares insight into the life a USGS hydrologic technician for one of the USGS water science centers out west. Read more
The USGS plays an integral role in the new U.S. Water Partnership, which will bring together public and private resources to address water challenges around the world.
Timing is everything! Consider helping track changes in spring’s arrival
Meet one of the next generation of USGS physical scientists.
Flood Safety Awareness Week is March. 12-16. What can you do to prepare?
National Groundwater Awareness Week is Mar. 11-17, 2012. See how USGS science is connecting groundwater and surface water.
Since Japan’s March 11, 2011, Tohoku earthquake and subsequent tsunami, scientists at the USGS have learned much to help better prepare for a large earthquake in the United States.
Five USGS employees honored with Distinguished Service Awards for their service to the nation
Meet a member of the next generation of USGS hydrologic technicians.
Meet a member of the next generation of USGS hydrologic technicians.
It’s National Invasive Species Awareness Week. Did you know invasive species cost our country more than 100 billion dollars each year? Get to know America’s ten top invaders this week.
Groundwater in aquifers on the East Coast and in the Central U.S. has the highest risk of contamination from radium, a naturally occurring radioactive element and known carcinogen.
The proposed USGS budget reflects research priorities to respond to nationally relevant issues, including water quantity and quality, ecosystem restoration, hydraulic fracturing, natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, and support for the National Ocean Policy, and has a large R&D component.
Four new reports examine the contaminants polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) found in house dust, streams, lakes, soil, and air.
Exploding lakes in Cameroon, Africa, have killed people and livestock. Find out how USGS science is helping prevent such an event from occurring again.
A summer intern turned permanent employee discusses his career path. Most memorable moment
Oct. 9-15, 2011, is Earth Science Week, themed "Our-Ever Changing Earth," and Oct. 12, 2011, is International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction. Answers to questions posed by a changing world
As the team of responders struggled to end the worst oil spill in our Nation’s history, USGS scientist Paul Hsieh provided the critical scientific information needed to make a crucial decision.
After years of planning, the Department of the Interior has begun removing two dams on the Elwha River in Washington. But how will the removal of these dams impact the river’s sediments, waters, and fish?
As a nation, we use more than 75 billion gallons of groundwater each day. September 13 is the National Groundwater Association’s “Protect Your Groundwater Day.” What we can do to ensure we continue to have enough of it?
USGS scientists are working to characterize the contaminants and habitats for a number of aquatic species along the lower Columbia River.
The effects of drought are felt throughout the United States and the world, and USGS science has a prominent role in understanding the causes and consequences of this hydrological phenomenon.
USGS crews continue to measure streamflow and collect water quality and sediment samples in the Ohio and Mississippi River basins using state-of-art instruments.
Many communities in South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Colorado, Wyoming and Iowa are dealing with record floodwaters and bracing for more flooding in the upcoming weeks.
The most recent earthquake in Japan affected water levels in groundwater wells all over the country. Water level fluctuations were recorded as far away as Illinois, Virginia, Missouri and Florida.
Groundwater is one of our most vital natural resources. The USGS studies the quantity and quality of the nation's groundwater. Learn about USGS research in an aquifer near you.
Learn how 3-D modeling is used to examine groundwater and how this cutting edge science is used to solve tomorrow's problems today.
The Great Lakes are the largest freshwater system on Earth. However the basin has the potential for local shortages, according to a new basin-wide water availability assessment by the USGS.
The Department of the Interior has established a new website to find and share websites that provide water conservation and sustainability information.
The USGS is providing information on arsenic levels at the town level in Maine to protect human health and further promote citizen participation in State well-testing programs.
Water Security is the protection of adequate water supplies for food, fiber, industrial, and residential needs for expanding populations, which requires maximizing water-use efficiency, developing new supplies, and protecting water reserves in event of scarcity due to natural, manmade, or technological hazards.
Decreases in stream flow, which are often caused by human activities, affect the integrity of aquatic life in streams, according to a new USGS study.
The USGS and the National Weather Service have developed a new flood inundation map tool that enables management officials and residents to see where the potential threat of flooding is the highest along the Flint River near Albany, Georgia.
Looking for information on natural resources, natural hazards, geospatial data, and more? The USGS Education site provides great resources, including lessons, data, maps, and more, to support teaching, learning, K-12 education, and university-level inquiry and research.
The Chesapeake Bay has long been an R&R destination for DC residents. However, the watershed’s overpopulation contributes to its decline. Join us when USGS’s Scott Phillips and Peter Claggett discuss new science efforts applied to restoring the Nation's largest estuary on October 6th.
The "Flood and high flow" map shows the location of streamgages where the water level is currently above or near flood stage. Find out what rivers and creeks near you are doing.
Nutrient sources in both agricultural and urban areas contribute to elevated nutrient concentrations in streams and groundwater across the Nation.
USGS is playing a critical role in the federal government's coordinated Deepwater Horizon response efforts.
Population growth in the Kabul Basin, Afghanistan, due in part to returning refugees, is estimated to lead to a six-fold increase in drinking water needs by 2057. The USGS has worked in partnership with the Afghanistan Geological Survey to address questions of future water availability.
Flash flooding is one of the major causes of natural hazard-related deaths in the United States and is hard to predict, but data collected by the USGS is crucial to formulating better predictive models.
Did you know that contaminant-ridden dust from Africa may be harming coral reefs in the Caribbean? Scientists at the USGS are examining the air in Africa and in the Caribbean to determine what kinds of nutrients, microbes, and contaminants are traveling across the ocean.
Pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities can be a significant source of pharmaceuticals in surface water. The USGS is working with water utilities to try to reduce the release of pharmaceuticals and other emerging contaminants to the environment.
The United States Group on Earth Observations (USGEO) is working to connect Earth observations with public health, agriculture, climate, and data management and dissemination.
The USGS Science Strategy is a comprehensive report to critically examine the USGS's major science goals and priorities for the coming decade. The USGS is moving forward with these strategic science directions in response to the challenges that our Nation's future faces and for the stewards of our Federal lands.
February 28th at 7 p.m. (PST) — Public Lecture information: http://online.wr.usgs.gov/calendar
In response to Hurricane Isaac, USGS has deployed several hundred storm surge sensors to collect information about the effects of Isaac on the Gulf Coast.
Join us on September 5th in Reston, VA for a free public lecture on the 2011 Virginia earthquake!
Join us on August 1 to learn more about the anatomy of flooding: What are the different causes of these extreme events, and how is USGS science helping prepare residents for future foods.
Join us on June 6 for a centennial look at the greatest volcanic eruption of the 20th century at our June Public Lecture!
In recognition of World Forestry Day, let’s take a glimpse at USGS science to understand the fate of forests from climate change.
The Volcano Hazards Program announces the establishment of the USGS California Volcano Observatory (CalVO), which expands and replaces the former Long Valley Observatory.
The U.S. Geological Survey had a very busy 2011 — below are a few of our highlights from last year.
On Nov. 3, USGS scientists Patrick Barnard and William Ellsworth will present a public lecture in Menlo Park, CA, providing Bay Area residents information about USGS research in the San Francisco Bay Area, including recent discoveries beneath San Francisco Bay and ongoing studies to better understand earthquake probabilities and the potential hazards associated with strong ground shaking.
Join USGS scientists on November 2nd to discuss the seismology of the M5.8 Virginia earthquake, its effects, and its context in the geology of Virginia.
February 28th at 7 p.m. (PST) — Public Lecture information: http://online.wr.usgs.gov/calendar
In response to Hurricane Isaac, USGS has deployed several hundred storm surge sensors to collect information about the effects of Isaac on the Gulf Coast.
7 p.m.—Public lecture (also live-streamed over the Internet)
Join us on August 1 to learn more about the anatomy of flooding: What are the different causes of these extreme events, and how is USGS science helping prepare residents for future foods.
Join us in Menlo Park for our Evening Lecture on Scanning the Seafloor with Sound!
Stressed agricultural lands may be releasing less of the moisture needed to protect the breadbasket of a continent.
The U.S. Geological Survey had a very busy 2011 — below are a few of our highlights from last year.
Over the next 10 years, the USGS plans to conduct a new assessment of water availability and use. This national Water Census will address critical aspects of recent Federal legislation, including the need to establish a national water assessment program.
Recent USGS research shows that climate, vegetation, groundwater recharge rate, and proximity of the contaminants to the water table can all affect and control natural removal rates.
USGS scientists will join thousands of scientists, managers, and decision makers in Boston this week to present new findings on toxics at the Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) conference in the Hynes Convention Center, Nov. 13-17.
On Nov. 3, USGS scientists Patrick Barnard and William Ellsworth will present a public lecture in Menlo Park, CA, providing Bay Area residents information about USGS research in the San Francisco Bay Area, including recent discoveries beneath San Francisco Bay and ongoing studies to better understand earthquake probabilities and the potential hazards associated with strong ground shaking.
Rivers and streams in the United States are releasing substantially more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than previously thought.
Meet the R/V Muskie and the R/V Kaho, the USGS Great Lakes Science Center's two newest additions to its Great Lakes research fleet!
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