Organization, programs, and activities of the Geologic Division, U.S. Geological Survey

CONTENTS

Summary 1 Introduction 1 Mission 4 Authority and Source of Funds 5 Organization 5 Office of the Chief Geologist 7 Office of Mineral Resources 7 Office of Energy and Marine Geology 8 Office of Regional Geology 9 Office of Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Engineering 10 Office of International Geology 12 Office of Scientific Publications 12 Programs and Activities 12 Directly Funded Programs 12 Reimbursable Programs 19 Support Activities 22

Directory of Mailing Addresses, Office Locations, and Telephone Numbers of Principal Geologic Division Organizations and Field Offices 26 Summary of Legislative Authority for Conducting Geologic and Resource Investigations 30 Publications 22 Libraries 22 Data Bases and Data Systems 22 Educational Support Program 23 Geologic Information Services 24

By Robert E. Davis

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) was established by an act of Congress in 1879 as an agency of the Department of the Interior (DOI). That Organic Act charged the USGS with conducting an "examination of the geological structure, mineral resources, and products of the national domain." Thus, the agency was defined primarily as a scientific fact-finding and research organization, as contrasted to a developmental or regulatory one. It is now the principal source of scientific and technical expertise in the earth sciences within the Department of the Interior and the Federal Government. As the accompanying organization chart of the Department shows, the Director of the USGS currently reports to the Assistant Secretary Water and Science. The USGS is headquartered at its National Center in Reston, Va., about 25 miles west of Washington, D.C.

The U.S. Geological Survey is organized into a directorate and five subordinate divisions. Three of these

SECRETARY

are major program divisions Geologic, National Mapping, and Water Resources and the other two are support divisions Administrative and Information Systems. Each division has its own set of responsibilities in support of the overall agency mission.

The Geologic Division provides geologic, geophysical, and geochemical information on land resources, energy and mineral resources, and geologic hazards of the Nation and its territories. The mission of the Geologic Division is described in more detail in the following section. The National Mapping Division provides geographic and cartographic information, maps, and technical assistance and conducts related research responsive to national needs. The Water Resources Division provides information on the occurrence, quantity, quality, distribution, and movement of surface and underground waters that constitute the Nation's water resources. The Administrative Division provides finance, personnel, contract negotiation and administration, property and space management, organization and methods, management analysis, and other administrative services to the U.S. Geological Survey as a whole. The Information Systems Division provides guidance and advice to the Survey and to the Department of the Interior on all matters relating to USGS information technology and automatic data processing.

The agency employs about 8,620 permanent full-time scientific, technical, administrative, and clerical personnel, whose approximate distribution among the major organizational units is as follows: Director's Office, 60 employees (1 percent); Geologic Division, 2,290 (26 percent); National Mapping Division, 1,790 (21 percent); Water Resources Division, 3,880 (45 percent); Administrative Division, 460 (5 percent); and Information Systems Division, 140 (2 percent). The permanent full-time staff is augmented by about 1,730 part-time and temporary employees.

Funds for the agency come principally from direct appropriations (about $451.5 million in fiscal year 1989) and from reimbursements from other agencies. The allocation of directly appropriated funds for fiscal year 1989 was approximately as follows: Geologic Division, $178.2 million (39.5 percent); National Mapping Division, $94.2 million (21 percent); Water Resources Division, $145.3 million (32 percent); and facilities, administration, and all other activities, $33.8 million (7.5 percent). Details of USGS funding for prior fiscal years can be found in the most recent "United States Geological Survey Yearbook."

The Geologic Division conducts a broad spectrum of earth-science investigations, mainly in the United States and its territories and on its continental shelves and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), to determine the geologic structure and the nature of geologic processes affecting these lands; to assess the energy and mineral resources of the Nation; to establish the geologic factors that bear on the use of the land and continental shelves and on the maintenance of environmental quality; and to understand the nature and mitigate the impacts of geologic hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides. The Division carries out its mission responsibilities by means of a general range of activities that include Geologic, geophysical, and geochemical mapping to determine the composition and structure of rocks at and beneath the Earth's surface; Research into geologic principles and processes, including specialized research in many earth-science disciplines, to provide guidance for geologic interpretations; Development and assessment of new exploration techniques to aid in the increasingly difficult search for new sources of energy and mineral commodities;

Collation and synthesis of geologic information on energy and mineral resources to develop a comprehensive background of knowledge upon which to base resource and resource-potential assessments; and Operation of seismological networks and geomagnetic and volcano observatories to monitor and aid in understanding geologic processes and events that have a potential for risk to life and property.

The Division carries out extensive basic research as an important component of all activities both in direct support of its mission and in order to maintain the capability necessary to respond to emerging national problems. The results of investigations are published in U.S. Geological Survey professional papers, bulletins, circulars, and geologic and related map series, in reports printed by cooperating agencies, and in outside technical and scientific journals. In addition, many reports and maps, mostly preliminary in nature, are released in the USGS open-file series and are available to users only on specific request. Selectively, some of these research results may be provided also in special formats for use in precollege earth-science education.

Authority to carry out the activities of the Geologic Division derives basically from the Organic Act of 1879. Through the years, this initial authority has been refined by numerous subsequent legislative acts relating to earthquake hazards, dam safety, nuclear safety, strategic and critical minerals, wilderness, and various aspects of energy, to cite but a few. Each of these pieces of legislation expands, more clearly defines, or re-emphasizes the basic responsibilities of the Survey as outlined in the Organic Act. A summary of pertinent legislation is included as a separate section at the end of this circular.

Approximately 75 percent of the Geologic Division's annual budget comes through direct appropriation from the Congress. The remainder comes largely through reimbursement from other Federal agencies, such as the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, for work performed on their behalf and from organizations such as the Agency for International Development, the Department of State, the United Nations, and some foreign governments to support international geologic programs. Some support comes also from State agencies through cooperative activities.

The permanent full-time staff of the Geologic Division comprises approximately 2,290 professional, technical, administrative, and clerical personnel. In addition, about 900 people are employed on a part-time or temporary basis. Of the permanent full-time staff, about 1,300 are geologists, geophysicists, or chemists. With more than 900 geologists, the Division ranks probably as the largest single employer of geologists in the United States.

The accompanying organization chart shows that the Geologic Division is organized, largely along functional (programmatic) lines into 6 line offices and 29 subordinate branches. Overall management is centralized in a headquarters organization and is implemented at branch and project level by a field organization.

The Headquarters Organization is located at the USGS National Headquarters in Reston, Va., and comprises the Office of the Chief Geologist and the Offices of Mineral Resources; Energy and Marine Geology; Regional Geology; Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Engineering; International Geology; and Scientific Publications. The chief of each office is responsible for the general management of a specified group of activities and the allocation of financial and personnel resources identified with those activities. Each office chief reports directly to the Chief Geologist.

Program activities are carried out through the Field Organization, which consists basically of the 29 branches, variously headquartered at or near the Regional Centers in Reston, Va., Lakewood (Denver and Golden area), Colo., and Menlo Park, Calif., as well as at Field Centers in Woods Hole, Mass., Flagstaff, Ariz., and Anchorage, Alaska. Branch chiefs, who report directly to their respective office chiefs, are responsible for the design and coordination of scientific programs that meet branch

ORGANIZATION OF THE GEOLOGIC DIVISION

some personnel and projects are located at centers or field offices other than the listed branch headquarters. The larger field offices are listed in the directory included elsewhere in this circular.

Office of the Chief Geologist

The Office of the Chief Geologist consists of the Chief Geologist, the Associate Chief Geologist, and the Assistant Chief Geologist for Program who, with the assistance of immediate staff, exercise the general authority delegated by the Director for the initiation, planning, execution, and evaluation of programs. Matters related to personnel, policy and budget coordination, and administration are the responsibility of the Manpower Officer for Scientific Personnel, the Policy and Budget Officer, and the Administrative Officer and their respective staffs.

The Chief Geologist's Office also includes the Assistant Chief Geologists for the Eastern, Central, and Western Regions, who act for the1 Chief Geologist in furthering the general objectives, policies, and procedures of the Division. Each Assistant Chief Geologist serves as Chairman of a Division committee made up of branch chiefs and designated branch representatives located in the respective regions, as representative for the Chief Geologist on the Survey committee for the region, and as Geologic Division liaison with the Director's Representative for the region. In addition, the Assistant Chief Geologists serve as the Division's principal liaison with and point of contact for the State Geologists in their respective regions.

Office of Mineral Resources

The Office of Mineral Resources is responsible for assessing the nonfuel-mineral resource potential of the Nation through the use of geologic, geophysical, and geochemical studies; conducting research on the mode of occurrence and origin of mineral deposits; devising concepts and techniques to aid in the search for new deposits; and conducting geophysical investigations to determine the structure of rocks at and beneath the Earth's surface. The Division's principal onshore activities in Alaska and the general chemical laboratories of the Division are managed by this Office.

Branch of Alaskan Geology (Anchorage) makes geologic surveys and investigations to determine the geologic composition and structure of Alaska, to determine and appraise the energy and mineral resources in compliance with the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980, to establish the geologic factors that bear on the use of the land with special emphasis on the engineering problems of frozen ground, and to reduce loss of life and property from earthquakes, landslides, and volcanic erup-

Office of Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Engineering

Branch of Tectonophysics (Menlo Park) obtains definitive geophysical data on the mechanics of crustal deformation, heat flow, and rock physics to better understand the nature of faulting and the mechanisms of earthquakes. These objectives are obtained by measuring and interpreting geodetic strain, elevation changes, and geochemical parameters and physical properties such as stress, temperature, pore pressure, and seismic-wave velocity and attenuation. These data permit the identification of short-term precursors of moderate to large earthquakes, which is necessary for developing the capability to predict earthquakes, and the evaluation and mitigation of man-induced seismicity.

Branch of Engineering Seismology and Geology (Menlo Park) acquires and disseminates data on strong ground motion for engineering design, develops the capability for predicting damaging shaking from earthquakes, and conducts research on surface faulting and earthquakeinduced ground failure. Activities include analyzing data from strong-motion networks, studying earthquake-source physics and seismic-wave propagation, numerically synthesizing seismograms, investigating the character and distribution of active faults, and determining the origin and mechanics of earthquake-generated landslides and liquefaction. Data and interpretations are used to make probabilistic assessments of earthquake recurrence, to determine the probable consequences of damaging earthquakes, and to improve the design of earthquake-resistant structures.

Branch of Seismology (Menlo Park) conducts research on earthquake mechanics, Earth structure, and seismic-source parameters; monitors regional earthquake activity; and develops instrumentation and collects observational data for the reduction of earthquake hazards. Activities designed to meet these objectives include the operation of seismic networks; collection and analysis of seismic-network, seismic-refraction, and seismic-reflection data; seismic monitoring of volcanic and geothermal systems; and the measurement of strain and tilt. These activities contribute toward the reduction of earthquake and volcanic hazards through the development of earthquakeprediction methodologies; the delineation of seismic-source zones, deep Earth structure, and tectonic processes; and an understanding of volcanic and geothermal systems.

Branch of Geologic Risk Assessment (Golden) conducts research on ground failure, the engineering properties of rock and soil, geologic site suitability, regional tectonics and seismicity, active geologic structures, seismic risk, and seismic-wave attenuation. Activities designed to meet the research objectives include geotechnical field and laboratory investigations, geologic mapping to complement engineering studies, investigation of active faults, documentation of regional variations in ground-motion attenuation, and the determination of tectonic histories. These studies lead to an understanding of the geologic processes and conditions that affect engineering, development, and construction; the delineation of seismic-source zones; and the mitigation of geologic hazards and risk.

Branch of Global Seismology and Geomagnetism (Golden) collects, analyzes, and disseminates information on the effects of earthquakes and monitors and interprets perturbations and anomalies in the Earth's magnetic field. The Branch operates global seismograph networks to detect and locate earthquakes, collects and interprets detailed information on earthquake mechanisms and seismic-wave propagation, and conducts research in global seismology and tectonics. It maintains a system of geomagnetic observatories, develops geomagnetic instrumentation, and conducts magnetic surveys. The Branch provides the public and the scientific community with information on earthquake location and damage, earthquakes that might produce seismic sea waves, and changes in the Earth's magnetic field.

Branch of Igneous and Geothermal Processes (Menlo Park) conducts basic research on the origin and

Office of Scientific Publications

geologic framework and the processes that have shaped it; to determine the nature of the Earth's deep crust and upper mantle; to measure changes in the strength and direction of the Earth's magnetic field; to develop an understanding of climate change and its effects on land and water resources; and to address shoreline retreat and land loss along shorelines in the United States where shore erosion is significant.

National Geologic Mapping Program. This program is designed to meet national needs for geologic maps by stimulating geologic mapping in all sectors; to improve coordination among Federal, State, academic, and privatesector producers and users of geologic-map information; and to develop new techniques and procedures that will improve the production, usefulness, and versatility of geologic-map information. These objectives are pursued through (1) mapping and related geologic, geophysical, and geochemical studies by multidisciplinary teams targeting specific high-priority regions and topics; (2) sponsorship of cooperatively funded mapping projects of mutual interest to the USGS and State geological surveys; (3) state-of-the-art research into Earth history and the age of Earth materials and the maintenance of analytical capabilities in isotopic and paleontologic studies; and (4) application of automated data-processing technology to geologic mapping and to the storage and retrieval of geologic-map information.

Deep Continental Studies Program. The objective of this program is to determine the composition, structure, and dynamics of the Earth's deep crust and upper mantle for the purpose of addressing critical problems that bear on the origin and evolution of the continents and the processes that produce mineral and energy resources and give rise to geologic hazards. Activities in pursuit of this objective include (1) multidisciplinary studies along transects that traverse major geologic features and their boundaries; (2) acquisition and interpretation of geologic and geophysical data obtained from deep drill holes, an activity closely coordinated with the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy; and (3) investigations to determine the petrologic, isotopic, and structural character of deep crustal and upper mantle continental rocks.

Geomagnetism Program. This program supports laboratories and observatories that measure changes in the strength and direction of the Earth's magnetic field. These data are used in the preparation and publication of navigational charts, topographic maps, and specialized magnetic surveys used by industry and by Federal and State agencies.

Climate Change Program. The objectives of this program are to acquire a basic understanding of the causes of climate changes and the past and future impacts of these changes; to establish the long-term history of the rates, frequencies, and magnitudes of climate change in order to determine the effects of climate change on natural resources; and to create and improve techniques for delineating climate history. These objectives are met through (1) studies of continuous sequences of sedimentary rocks in which detailed climate variations are recorded by fossils and by geochemical and isotopic changes; (2) investigations of the effects of climate changes on continental margins; and (3) studies of times and magnitudes of past variations in atmospheric carbon dioxide through a variety of techniques.

Coastal Erosion Program. The objective of this program is to provide geologic information about the nature, extent, and causes of coastal erosion and land loss, including loss of wetlands, as an aid to Federal, State, and local agencies in their decision-making with regard to prediction and mitigation of the effects of coastal processes. Activities, focused mainly in Louisiana and the southern Great Lakes, include geophysical and hydrographic surveys and detailed studies of sediment transport and deposition.

Offshore Geologic Surveys are conducted to provide basic geologic and geophysical information about the U.S. continental margins and adjacent sea-floor areas for the purpose of developing and enhancing our knowledge of the offshore geologic framework; the potential for the occurrence of petroleum and mineral resources; the geologic conditions that may affect the exploitation of those resources; and the formation of petroleum and mineral deposits in offshore areas and its application to the search for analogous onshore deposits of economic significance.

Offshore Geologic Framework Program. The objective of this program is to create and enhance, on a

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gallons of known mineral districts, mineral provinces, and mineral-bearing environments are directed toward recognizing and understanding the processes that form mineral deposits. Activities include (1) multidisciplinary studies of topical problems in ore genesis; (2) studies of the factors that influence ore deposition in known mineral districts; (3) investigations aimed at recognizing and evaluating unconventional types of mineral resources; (4) geochemical studies of the trace-element distribution in selected mineralized areas; (5) laboratory studies of ore minerals and their host rocks; (6) generation of basic thermochemical data on ore-forming systems; (7) research directed toward increasing the understanding and interpretation of geochemical and geophysical information as applied to resource problems; (8) investigations to improve existing geochemical and geophysical technology; and (9) study of selected mineral districts to determine processes of ore formation and to define criteria needed to recognize undiscovered deposits.

Strategic and Critical Minerals Program. The objectives are to provide comprehensive information on domestic and world resources of the nonfuel minerals that are essential to a strong national economy and defense; to create systems to store, analyze, and present this information in the form needed for mineral-policy planning; and to create expertise in strategic and critical minerals to assist in finding and developing adequate and dependable supplies of these commodities. Activities include comprehensive literature and field research to identify deposits from which these minerals may be produced and to identify areas that are geologically favorable for the discovery of as-yetunsuspected deposits of strategic minerals.

Energy Geologic Surveys are conducted to improve understanding of the nature, distribution, and size of the Nation's energy-related resources as a prerequisite to the formulation of effective national energy policy and the optimum development of energy sources. Surveys of coal, oil and gas, oil shale, uranium and thorium, and geothermal resources all involve geologic, geophysical, and geochemical studies; construction of extensive data systems; creation and refinement of reliable assessment methodologies; and the conduct of independent, credible, scientifically based resource assessments.

Evolution of Sedimentary Basins Program. The objectives are to conduct multidisciplinary studies of the sedimentary geology history, settings, habitats, and processes and the constituents of ancient and modern sedimentary basins; to integrate surface and subsurface geologic, geophysical, and geochemical information; and to provide the critical data that permit assessment of the energy and mineral resource potential of a given basin. Activities include (1) regional stratigraphic and sedimentologic studies of selected basins; (2) studies to determine sources of sediments and directions of regional transport and migration of fluids including oil and gas; (3) reconstructions of basin geometry, past thermal conditions, and paleohydrology; (4) geophysical studies, using seismic-reflection profiles, borehole measurements of rock properties, and field surveys to identify basement-rock character; and (5) operation of the Core Research Center and Library at the Denver Federal Center.

Coal Investigations Program. The objectives of this program are to conduct comprehensive investigations of coal deposits in order to assess U.S. coal resources; to develop predictive models of the origin, distribution, and chemical composition of coal; to create and maintain a computerized National Coal Resources Data System capable of producing accurate and timely assessments of coal resources, quality, and availability; and to determine the characteristics of the environment of coal deposition as an aid to planning the efficient and orderly development of domestic coal resources. These objectives are met, commonly in cooperation with concerned States, through (1) field and laboratory studies and the portrayal of the results on regional-scale maps of coal basins; (2) acquisition of aggregated and point-source data on coal quantity and quality for entry into the publicly available computerized data base; and (3) regional geologic investigations pertinent to the development of coal-bearing regions to assist the Bureau of Land Management, Office of Surface Mining, Environmental Protection Agency, and State agencies in the formulation of coal-mining regulations.

Oil and Gas Investigations Program. This program is designed to conduct fundamental and applied earth-science research into the habitat, generation, migration, and entrapment of oil and gas and to use the acquired knowledge as a basis for reliable and credible oil and gas resource assessments for onshore public and private lands. These objectives are met by (1) field and laboratory studies aimed at understanding hydrocarbon generation and maturation and the geologic settings in which these processes occur and (2) studies that deal with the difficult problems concerning the nature of stratigraphic traps, such as their origins, character, location in time and space, and detection. Other studies are aimed in new directions that may help in evaluating frontier areas or in finding petroleum previously overlooked in known areas of occurrence.

Oil-Shale Investigations Program. The objectives of this program are to determine the geologic setting and the physical and chemical characteristics of domestic oil-shale deposits in order to provide an understanding of the oil-shale resources of the Nation, and the factors that affect their proposed exploitation, and to form a basis for making periodic assessments of this energy resource. Activities to meet these objectives include (1) quadrangle mapping, stratigraphic studies, and resource delineation; (2) compilation of stratigraphic, lithologic, geochemical, geophysical, and resource-evaluation data for inclusion in a computerized oil-shale inventory system; (3) studies of minerals that are potentially useful byproducts of, or that may be deleterious to, oil-shale processing; and (4) review of various resource-evaluation methods that have been used for estimating oil-shale yields of domestic and foreign deposits. Studies are focused chiefly on the rich deposits in . Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming but also deal with organicrich black shales of the Appalachian Basin and elsewhere.

Uranium/Thorium Program. The objectives of this program are to conduct fundamental research and investigations to improve the understanding of the geologic setting and the regional and national distribution of uranium and thorium and associated materials, mainly radon gas; to develop techniques for increasing the discovery rate and improving the assessment of undiscovered resources; to administer the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) data base; and to study environmental hazards, such as the occurrence of radon, by means of geologic models. Activities include (1) studies of ore-forming processes, geochemical controls, and geochemical exploration techniques; (2) modeling studies of uranium and thorium in igneous and metamorphic rocks; (3) studies of uranium and associated metals in sedimentary rocks; (4) investigations of geophysical, biogeochemical, and mathematical techniques to detect characteristics of depositional patterns of uranium and thorium; (5) studies of resource assessment techniques; and (6) investigations to identify and model very young surficial uranium accumulations.

Geothermal Investigations Program. This program is designed to provide a better understanding of the nature, distribution, and magnitude of the Nation's geothermal resources and of the geologic and hydrologic processes and conditions that produce and control geothermal systems, both in volcanic areas and elsewhere, in order that geothermal energy can be evaluated as an alternative energy source. Activities to meet program objectives include (1) fundamental research investigations to determine the geologic and hydrologic factors, particularly in the deeper thermal regions of the Earth's crust, that control the characteristics, occurrence, longevity, and size of all types of geothermal systems; (2) multidisciplinary studies, both site-specific and regional, to identify and define the geologic, geophysical, geochemical, and hydrologic characteristics of all types of geothermal systems; and (3) evaluation of the geoenvironmental effects that may result from extraction and injection of fluids during exploitation of the resource.

World Energy Resource Assessment Program. The objectives of this program are to provide geologic information and assessments on world energy resources, chiefly oil and gas, to be used by other agencies in national planning and decision-making processes relative to energy use, availability, ownership, international trade, and foreign policy. The objectives are met through literature investigations and studies of public information from multiple sources, with scientific support from the domestic energy resource programs.

Geologic Hazards Surveys are conducted to acquire data useful in delineating and forecasting hazards from earthquakes and volcanoes and in identifying engineering factors related to landslides and other ground-failure phenomena.

Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program. The objective of this program is to mitigate losses from earthquakes, which can occur in many parts of the Nation, by providing earth-science data and evaluations essential for result from ground-failure events, to provide a better scientific and technological basis for land-use decisions, and to develop reliable quantitative methods for evaluating risks from ground failures. Activities include (1) regional assessments of the distribution of areas of potential landslides; (2) development of soil-mechanics techniques to determine relative susceptibility of slopes to failure; (3) investigations in rock mechanics, including instrumentation for monitoring slope movements and rock deformation, measurement of rock properties, and case studies of rock types with regard to their behavior when used as foundation and construction material; and (4) design and installation of near-real-time landslide warning networks in populous regions.

Reimbursable Programs

In addition to those programs funded by direct SIR appropriations, the Geologic Division carries out a large number of activities on behalf of other Federal agencies (OFA), as well as some non-Federal domestic organizations, foreign governments, and international organizations. In general, these activities directly contribute to or otherwise complement the SIR programs of the Division, along with fulfilling the needs of the supporting agency. Collectively, funding for these programs totals about 25 percent of the Division budget. For convenience of discussion, these programs are grouped into two categories: (1) Other Federal Agency Programs and (2) International Activities.

Other Federal Agency Programs are those carried out by the Division on behalf of another agency and for which the Division is reimbursed by that agency. These activities range in level of effort from a fraction of a man-year per year, as required for selected seismic or geochemical monitoring or for a small number of chemical analyses, to several tens of man-years per year over a number of years, as typified by the Astrogeology Program and the Nuclear Waste Program, two of the Division's well-established, long-term OFA programs.

Astrogeology Program. This program is carried out almost entirely on behalf of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Its objectives are to understand better the origin and evolution of the solar system and the individual planetary bodies, including the Earth; to formulate general theories to explain geologic processes that occur on the planets; to devise remote-sensing techniques to aid in geologic interpretation of planetary surfaces, including that of the Earth; and to insure that future exploration of the solar system is conducted in a manner that will optimize geologic return. Activities include (1) research in a wide range of topical geologic subjects; (2) research in radar technology, photogrammetry, and image processing; (3) studies in impact-cratering mechanics; (4) interpretation and management of remotely sensed data obtained from spacecraft; and (5) compilation for publication of topographic, geologic, photographic, and air-brush map products derived from data obtained from spacecraft.

Nuclear Waste Program. This program is funded in part by direct SIR appropriation and in part by the Department of Energy (DOE); the Water Resources Division has the lead responsibility for the program. The objectives are to evaluate new screening methods and different geohydrologic environments for siting repositories; to improve techniques for site identification and characterization and for prediction of the effects of geologic and hydrologic processes and events that could affect the future integrity of a repository; to provide advice to DOE on earth-science aspects of the program and review contractors' plans and products; and, through field investigations, to assist DOE in identifying and characterizing potential sites for nuclearwaste repositories. Activities for DOE involve (1) extensive geologic, geophysical, and seismic investigations of a potential repository site in Nevada and (2) studies to develop or improve geophysical, geomechanical, and geochemical techniques used for the characterization of potential repository sites.

Toxic-Substances Hydrology Program. This program also is being conducted in cooperation with the Water Resources Division. Its objectives are to provide the Nation with basic earth-sciences information needed by managers to improve waste-disposal practices and to help mitigate existing and future surface- and ground-water contamination problems. Specific Geologic Division activities include (1) developing geophysical techniques for characterizing and tracing plumes of contaminated ground water and for characterizing subsurface materials through which the ground water flows; (2) preparing maps showing the location, characteristics, and thickness of glacial and other surficial geologic deposits and using these maps to estimate the vulnerability of ground water to contamination; (3) studying the geochemical behavior of toxic elements in natural and contaminated environments; and (4) studying the factors that influence the distribution and fate of agricultural pesticides in the environment.

Examples of other OFA activities are summarized briefly below. Agency for International Development Studies in foreign geology; technical assistance to many nations (see International Activities); investigations of earthquakes in Africa, the Circum-Pacific, Latin America, and Southeast Asia; investigations of volcanic hazards and installation of early-warning volcano-eruption equipment in South America and the Far East. Bureau of Indian Affairs Geologic, geophysical, and geochemical field studies for the assessment of energy and nonfuel mineral resources on Indian lands. Bureau of Land Management Geologic, geophysical, and geochemical field studies for the assessment of mineral resource potential of selected BLM wilderness and roadless areas; Arctic environmental studies. Bureau of Mines Research investigations in borehole soundings and in borehole minerals-assaying technology. Bureau of Reclamation Operation, maintenance, and monitoring of seismic networks at Auburn Dam, New Melones, and Mount Shasta, Calif., Glen Canyon, Utah, and Delores River, Colo.; studies in seismic-refraction analyses. Central Intelligence Agency Military geology studies of critical areas. Department of Defense Army Research Office Studies of recovery rates of arid lands used for military maneuvers; studies of world deserts; convening of the International Desert Studies workshop. Corps of Engineers Operation, maintenance, and monitoring of strong-motion networks at various dams in the Western United States; studies of sediment transport, deposition, and erosion in the marine environment. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Cooperative operation of various seismic monitoring networks for the People's Republic of China; global seismological studies; studies in military geology. Defense Nuclear Agency Evaluation of failure mechanisms and deformation processes in shock-loaded unconsolidated and moderately consolidated geologic materials by means of petrographic, petrologic, and solid-state techniques; study of structural deformations and failure mechanisms in 40,000 feet of drill core from large Flynn Creek, Tenn., impact crater; participation in DNA-sponsored dry field explosion trials; studies in military geology. Department of Energy Studies related to the safe storage or disposal of hazardous wastes (see Nuclear Waste Program); investigations of geochemical aspects of geothermal reservoir depletion at Cierro Prieto, Mexico, Larderello, Italy, and Klamath Falls, Oreg.; threedimensional seismic studies of Newberry Crater, Oreg.; geodetic studies at the Hanford Site, Wash.; seismic-refraction surveys of the Columbia Basin, southeastern Washington; geologic and geophysical studies in support of the nuclear testing program at the Nevada Test Site; studies of rock stress, seismicity, and ground motion; research in tight gas sands and deep-source hydrocarbons. Environmental Protection Agency Studies of airborne geophysical techniques to develop methods for locating and tracing underground contaminants and toxic-waste plumes. Federal Emergency Management Agency Studies of landslides and mudflows; synthesis of scientific and technical earth-science information for the Central United States; basic research in earthquake hazards and earthquake prediction to support earthquake-preparedness program.

Support Activities

Mineral Resources Data System (MRDS; Branch of Resource Analysis) Set of records on mineral deposits and mineral commodities in the United States and, to a certain extent, the world. Geologic Names of the United States (GEONAMES;

Office of Scientific Publications) List of rock stratigraphic names in good usage in the United States; distribution, age, and physical attributes are given for each entry. Index to Geologic Maps (GEOINDEX; Geologic Inquiries Group, Branch of Library and Information Services) Bibliographic and location data for all original published geologic maps in the United States and its territories. Hypocenter Data File (HDF; Branch of Global Seismology and Geomagnetism) Historical file of located earthquake hypocenters listing attributes (time, location, depth, and so on) of each earthquake. National Uranium Resource Evaluation Data Base (NURE; Branch of Sedimentary Processes) File of locations where uranium exploration has been carried out in the conterminous 48 States. Petroleum Data System (PDS; Branch of Petroleum Geology) File of U.S. oil and gas production by fields and pools, chemical analyses of crude oil and natural gas, and production history (Texas only). Rock Analysis Storage System (RASS; Branch of Geochemistry) Spectrographic and wet-chemical analyses of material samples collected in the United States by Geologic Division geologists and analyzed by Division chemists. Further information on these particular files may be obtained by contacting headquarters of the branches listed for the name and telephone number of the contact person responsible. A listing of many of the USGS data bases and systems can be found in U.S. Geological Survey Circular 817, "Scientific and Technical, Spatial, and Bibliographic Data Bases and Systems of the U.S. Geological Survey, 1983."

The Geologic Division provides scientific information, materials, and other support to precollege teachers and teachers' colleges to enhance student awareness and understanding of earth science. Providing information in appropriate forms for use in precollege classrooms is an essential part of each Division program. The Regional Assistant Chief Geologists are responsible for development of educational support activities in their regions, in close cooperation with State Geological Surveys and State educational and scientific organizations. Education coordinators in the Offices of the Regional Assistant Chief Geologists develop teachers' workshops and facilitate scientist participation in teachers' association meetings, science fairs, classroom presentations, and career days. The Office of Scientific Publications develops and provides educational publications, materials, films, and exhibits through the Geologic Inquiries Group and the Branch of Visual Services, as described below under Geologic Information Services.

In addition to managing the library system, the Office of Scientific Publications and its branches also manage or provide other information-related services through a Geologic Names Unit in each Regional Center, the Geologic Inquiries Group, and the Branch of Visual Services. Telephone numbers for these organizations, the principal offices of which are located in Reston, are listed in the directory.

The Geologic Names Units, in the Office of Scientific Publications, are responsible for defining, recommending, and implementing policy and rules governing the use of stratigraphic nomenclature for the USGS in accordance with the "Code of Stratigraphic Nomenclature" of the American Commission on Stratigraphic Nomenclature, for reviewing nomenclature usage by USGS authors, for approving and adjudicating any proposed changes in Survey usage, and for compiling information and publishing reports documenting changes in nomenclature usage by the USGS. In addition, the unit in Reston is responsible for maintaining a computer-based lexicon of geologic names used in the United States.

The Geologic Inquiries Group, in the Branch of Library and Information Services, responds to technical and nontechnical inquiries on all aspects of geology, geologic maps, and mapping directed to the USGS by other Federal, State, and local agencies, as well as from the general public. Teachers' packets of information on the earth sciences, tailored to specific purposes and grade levels, and limited numbers of State Geologic Map Indexes, pamphlets on various geologic topics, and other preprinted materials are also available from the Geologic Inquiries Group.

The Branch of Visual Services prepares display panels for exhibits at outside expositions and for internal USGS purposes, which illustrate specific work in geology, topographic mapping, water resources, and other aspects of USGS research, and is responsible for final preparation of most of the general-interest pamphlets and brochures published by the Survey. Exhibit panels may be requested for display at professional meetings and technical conferences. Movies on certain earth-science topics also are available free from the Branch for short-term loan to professional and scientific societies, educational institutions, and civic and industrial groups. Office of the Chief Geologist

Office of Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Engineering Chief, R.L. Wesson Office of the Assistant Chief Geologist, Eastern Region Assistant Chief Geologist, J.H. Medlin

Branch of Paleontology and Stratigraphy Chief, John Pojeta, Jr.

Branch of Library and Information Services Chief, B.A. Chappell

Lakewood (Denver), Colorado

Mailing address: [Name]

Telephone: (303) 236 + 4-digit extension

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mountain Time Office of the Assistant Chief Geologist, Central Region Assistant Chief Geologist, H.A. Tourtelot Mail Stop: 911 Room: 1525, Bldg. 25, Denver Federal Center (DFC) Telephone: ext. 5438 Branch of Central Mineral Resources Chief, D.A. Lindsey Mail Stop: 905 Room: 1993, Bldg. 25, DFC Telephone: ext. 5568 Branch of Geochemistry Chief, D.B. Smith, Acting Mail Stop: 973 Room: El 317, Bldg. 20, DFC Telephone: ext. 1800 Branch of Geophysics Chief, D.L. Campbell Mail Stop: 964 Room: 359, Denver West #2, 1527 Cole Blvd.,

Telephone: ext. 1212 Branch of Central Regional Geology Chief, D.L. Schleicher Mail Stop: 913 Room: 314, Denver West #2, 1527 Cole Blvd.,

Telephone: ext. 1258 Branch of Isotope Geology Chief, C.E. Hedge Mail Stop: 963 Room: 5, D Annex, Bldg. 21, DFC Telephone: ext. 7880 Branch of Petroleum Geology Chief, D.L. Gautier Mail Stop: 934 Room: H 2909B, Bldg. 25, DFC Telephone: ext. 5711 Branch of Sedimentary Processes Chief, W.E. Dean Mail Stop: 939 Room: 2515, Bldg. 25, DFC Telephone: ext. 1644 Branch of Global Seismology and Geomagnetism Chief, J.R.P. Masse Box 25046, DFC, MS [Mail Stop no.] Lakewood, CO 80225

FTS 776 + 4-digit extension Switchboard: ext. 7181 Personnel locator: ext. 7181

Golden Mail Stop: 967 Room: 525, CSM Campus, 1711 Illinois Ave., Golden Telephone: ext. 1510 Branch of Geologic Risk Assessment Chief, K.M. Shedlock Mail Stop: 966 Room: 424, CSM Campus, 1711 Illinois Ave., Golden Telephone: ext. 1585 Branch of Central Technical Reports Chief, L.F. Rooney Mail Stop: 902 Room: 2405C, Bldg. 25, DFC Telephone: ext. 5457 Branch of Library and Information Services Librarian, R.A. Bier, Jr.

Mail Stop: 914 Room: C-2002, Bldg. 20, DFC Telephone: ext. 1004

Menlo Park, California

Mailing address: [Name]

Telephone: (415) 329 + 4-digit extension

Office hours: 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Pacific Time Office of the Assistant Chief Geologist, Western Pegion Assistant Chief Geologist, W.R. Normark Mail Stop: 919 Room: 106, Bldg. 1 Telephone: ext. 5101 Branch of Western Mineral Resources Chief, W.C. Bagby Mail Stop: 941 Room: 110, Bldg. 1 Telephone: ext. 5400 Branch of Western Regional Geology Chief, R.W. Tabor Mail Stop: 975 Room: 7273, Bldg. 7 Telephone: ext. 4909 Branch of Pacific Marine Geology Chief, D.A. Cacchione Mail Stop: 999 Room: B 172, 3475 Deer Creek Road, Palo Alto Telephone: ext. 3184 Branch of Tectonophysics Chief, W.H. Prescott Mail Stop: 977 U.S. Geological Survey, MS [Mail Stop no.] 345 Middlefield Rd. Menlo Park, CA 94025

FTS 459 + 4-digit extension Switchboard: (415) 853-8300 FTS 459-8300 Personnel locator: call Switchboard Room: 8226, Bldg. 8 Telephone: ext. 4860 Branch of Engineering Seismology and Geology Chief, T.L. Holzer Mail Stop: 977 Room: 8156, Bldg. 8 Telephone: ext. 5613 Branch of Seismology Chief, W.H. Bakun Mail Stop: 977 Room: 8297, Bldg. 8 Telephone: ext. 4793 Branch of Igneous and Geothermal Processes Chief, R.L. Christiansen Mail Stop: 910 Room: 1016, Bldg. 2 Telephone: ext. 5228 Branch of Western Technical Reports Chief, J.B. Pinkerton Mail Stop: 951 Room: 3220G, Bldg. 3 Telephone: ext. 5043 Branch of Library and Information Services Librarian, N.L. Blair Mail Stop: 955 Room: 507, Bldg. 5 Telephone: ext. 5029

Flagstaff, Arizona

Mailing address: [Name]

2255 N. Gemini Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86001 Telephone: (602) 527 + 4-digit extension FTS 765 + 4-digit extension Personnel locator: ext. 7151 Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mountain Time Office of the Deputy Assistant Chief Geologist, Western Region Deputy Assistant Chief Geologist, E.L. Pfeifer Room: 365, Bldg. 3 Telephone: ext. 7151 Branch of Astrogeology Chief, H.H. Kieffer Room: 102, Bldg. 1 Telephone: ext. 7015

Woods Hole, Massachusetts

Mailing address: [Name]

Woods Hole, MA 02543 Telephone: (617) 548-8700; ask for 4-digit extension Switchboard: ext. 4155 Personnel locator: ext. 4155 Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Eastern Time Branch of Atlantic Marine Geology Chief, Bradford Butman Room: 1, Gosnold Bldg., Quissett Campus Telephone: ext. 4211

Anchorage, Alaska

Mailing address: [Name]

4200 University Drive Anchorage, AK 99508^667 Telephone: (907) 786 + 4-digit extension

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Alaskan Time Branch of Alaskan Geology Chief, DJ. Grybeck Room: 204 Telephone: ext. 7403

Hawaii

Mailing address: [Name]

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Hawaii National Park, P.O. Box 51 HI 96718 Telephone: (808) 967-7328 Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Hawaiian Time Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Scientist in Charge, T.L. Wright Telephone: (808) 967-8819

Vancouver, Washington

Mailing address: [Name]

Cascades Volcano Observatory 5400 MacArthur Blvd. Vancouver, WA 98661 Telephone: (206) 696 + 4-digit extension

Switchboard: ext. 7693 Personnel locator: ext. 7693 Office hours: 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Pacific Time Cascades Volcano Observatory Scientist in Charge, E.W. Wolfe Telephone: ext. 7806 FTS 837 + 4-digit extension

FTS (907) 786 + 4-digit extens : on

FTS 422 + 4-digit extension

Seattle, Washington

Mailing address: [Name]

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Pacific Time Seattle Field Office Division Representative, C.S. Weaver Telephone: (206) 543-7010

Spokane, Washington

Mailing address: [Name]

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Pacific Time Spokane Field Office Scientist in Charge, R.G. Worl Telephone: (509) 353-2641

Reno, Nevada

Mailing address: [Name]

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Pacific Time Reno Field Office Scientist in Charge, G.L. Raines Telephone: (702) 784-5574

Tucson, Arizona

Mailing address: [Name] Geophysics Department University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195

U.S. Courthouse, Rm. 656 W. 920 Riverside Avenue Spokane, WA 99201

Reno Field Office Mackay School of Mines University of Nevada-Reno Reno, NV 89557-0047

Gould-Simpson Building No. 77 Telephone: (602) 629-5500

Office hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Mountain Tirre Tucson Field Office Scientist in Charge, F.S. Fisher Room: 408 Telephone: (602) 629-5501

Pasadena, California

Mailing address: [Name]

Office hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. Pacific Time Branch of Seismology Scientist in Charge, T.H. Heaton Telephone: (818) 405-7814

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Mailing address: [Name]

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mountain Time Albuquerque Seismological Center Scientist in Charge, C.R. Hutt Telephone: (505) 844-4637

St. Petersburg, Florida

Mailing address: [Name]

Telephone: (813) 893-9800 Office hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time Center for Coastal and Regional Marine Studies Chief, R.B. Halley Telephone: (813) 893-9800 Tucson, AZ 85721

525 S. Wilson Ave. Pasadena, CA 91106

Albuquerque Seismological Center Kirtland AFB, East Bldg. 10002 Albuquerque, NM 87115

Center for Coastal and Regional Marine Studies 600 4th St., South St. Petersburg, FL 33701 The fundamental authorization for conducting geologic and resource investigations is the Organic Act of 1879, 43 USC 31. The Organic Act authorizes the U.S. Geological Survey to conduct an "...examination of the geological structure, mineral resources, and products of the national domain." Authority to perform work outside the "national domain" when it is determined to be in the national interest was provided by 43 USC 31(b) and subsequent legislation.

In addition to this basic authorization, there is more recent legislative authority that is relevant to particular programs of the Geologic Division. Program-specific legislation may be grouped in accordance with the budget line items.

42 USC 7701 et seq. (P.L. 95-124) The Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 sets as a national goal the reduction in the risks to life and property from future earthquakes in the United States through the establishment and maintenance of a balanced earthquake program encompassing earthquake prediction, hazard reduction, and research.

42 USC 5201 et seq. (P.L. 93-288) The Disaster Relief Act of1974, Section 202, states, "The President shall insure that all appropriate Federal agencies are prepared to issue warnings of disasters to State and local officials." In addition, Section 202(b) states, "The President shall direct appropriate Federal agencies to provide technical assistance to State and local governments to insure that timely and effective disaster warning is provided." The Director of the USGS through the Secretary of the Interior has been delegated the responsibility to issue disaster warnings "...for an earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, or other geologic catastrophe."

42 USC 4321 et seq. (P.L. 91-190) The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 requires the USGS to comply with Section 102(2)(c), which pertains to review of Environmental Impact Statements (EIS's) prepared by other agencies. The Survey reviews EIS's on sites for nuclear powerplants and other critical facilities.

43 USC 506 et seq. (P.L. 95-578) The Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978 requires the USGS to participate in direct interchange of scientific information with other agencies. Geologic data developed under Geologic Hazards Surveys are applicable to damsafety analyses. 15 USC 2901-2908; 31 USC 25 (P.L. 95-J57) The National Climate Program Act of 1978 requires that the Climate Change Program contribute infomation on the long-term natural variability of climate to the National Climate Program. This information is necessary for understanding how the climate system works and for providing a basis for assessing possible effects of human activities on climate and the environment.

42 USC 5845(c) (P.L. 93-438) The Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 drects all other Federal agencies to "...(2)... furnish to the [Nuclear Regulatory] Commission...such research service^ as the Commission deems necessary and requests for th? performance of its functions; and (3) consult and cooperate with the Commission on research and development matters of mutual interest and provide such information and physical access to its facilities as will assist the Commission in acquiring the expertise necessary to perform its licensing and related regulatory functions." The USGT assists in the geologic mapping of areas where future nuclear reactor construction is anticipated and conducts topical investigations of various geologic hazards that could imperil safe operation of the reactors.

22 USC 3201 et seq. (P.L. 95-242) The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act of 1978 provides that under Title V United States Assistance to Developing Countries the USGS assists through the Department of State and the Agency for International Development in evaluation of nuclear facilities sites in other countries.

42 USC 4321 et seq. (P.L. 91-190) The National Environmental Policy Act of 7959 requires the USGS to comply with Section 102(2)(c), which pertains to review of Environmental Impact Statements (EIS's) prepared by other agencies. The Survey reviews EIS's on sites for nuclear powerplants and other critical facilities.

P.L. 100-220 The Great Lakes Shoreline Mapping Act of 1987 requires the Director of Charting and Geodetic Services, in consultation with the USGS, to prepare a Great Lakes Shoreline plan.

50 USC 98 (P.L. 96-41) The Strategic and Critical Materials Stockpiling Act of 1946 as amended by its Revision Act of 1979. Section 8 of the act supports the Survey's programs for exploration of domestic minerals, especially for strategic and critical minerals to complement the Federal mineral stockpile program.

16 USC 1131 (P.L. 88-577) The Wilderness Act of 1964 and numerous subsequent related acts require that the USGS and the U.S. Bureau of Mines assess the mineral resources of each area proposed as wilderness or established as wilderness if no prior mineral survey was done. The studies are to be on a planned and recurring basis.

30 USC 21 (P.L. 91-631); 30 USC 1601 et seq. (P.L. 96-479) The Mining and Minerals Policy Act of 1970 and the Materials and Minerals Policy, Research, and Development Act of 1980 re-emphasize the Survey's responsibility to assess the mineral resources of the Nation.

16 USC 1600 et seq. (P.L. 94-588, P.L. 95-306) The National Forest Management Act of 1976 (as amended 1978) and the Renewable Resources Extension Act of 1978. The USGS is a party in a five-agency agreement calling for inventory of all resources on Federal land. The main consequence of these acts to date has been the Forest Service RARE-II (Roadless Area Review Evaluation) wilderness reviews.

43 USC 1701 (P.L. 94-579) The Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 specifically requires that the USGS and the U.S. Bureau of Mines do a mineral survey by 1991 of each area that the Bureau of Land Management recommends for wilderness study.

16 USC 3141-3150, 3161 The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980. Section 1001 of the act requires that the USGS assess the mineral potential of Federal lands north of 68° north latitude, east of the National Petroleum Reserve and west of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and participate in a review of the wilderness characteristics of the area. Section 1010 of the act requires that the Secretary of the Interior, who has delegated the responsibility to the USGS, expand the minerals data base for all Federal lands in Alaska. Section 1011 of the act requires that an annual minerals report be presented to the Congress; the responsibility for preparing this report has also been delegated to the USGS.

22 USC 5094 The Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986. Section 504 (b) of the act calls for the President to develop a program that reduces the dependence, if any, of the United States on the importation from South Africa of chromium, cobalt, manganese, platinum-group metals, ferroalloys, and other critical materials as defined in the Strategic and Critical Materials Stockpiling Act.

Energy Geologic Surveys

30 USC 201 (P.L. 94-377) The Federal Coal Leasing Amendments Act of 1975 provides that no lease sale may be held on Federal lands unless the lands containing the coal deposits have been included in a comprehensive land-use plan. The act authorize^ and directs the Secretary to conduct a comprehensive exploratory program designed to obtain sufficient data and information to evaluate the extent, location, and potential for developing the known recoverable coal resources withf n the coal lands.

30 USC 1121 (P.L. 93-410) The Geothermal Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1974 provides that the Department of the Interior is responsible for the evaluation and assessment of the geothermal resource base, including the development of exploration technologies.

42 USC 4331 (P.L. 91-190) The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 reiuires that proponents of major Federal actions sufficiently affecting the quality of human environment consult with and obtain the comments of any Federal agency th?* has jurisdiction by law or special expertise with respect to any environmental impact involved.

16 USC 3141-3150, 3161 (P.L. 94-579) The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980. Section 1001 of the act requires that the USGS assess the oil and gas potential of Federal lands north of 68° north latitude, east of the National Petroleum Reserve and west of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and participate in a review of the wilderness characteristics of the area. Section 1002 of the act requires that the Secretary of the Interior submit a report to Congress concerning the oil ard gas potential of the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The USGS is authorized to submit an exploration plan if no other entity proposes an acceptable plan. S°ction 1008 of the act authorizes the Secretary to conduct studies, or collect and analyze information obtained by permittees, of the oil and gas potential of non-North Slope Federal lands.

42 USC 2210b, 2231 (P.L. 97-415) The Nuclear Regulatory Commission Authorizaticn Act requires the Secretary of Energy to monitor and report to the President and the Congress on the viability of the domestic uranium industry. Under a memorandum of understanding between the Department of Energy and the Department of the Interior, the USGS provides information on domestic uranium resources to the Energy Information Agency.

Offshore Geologic Surveys

16 USC 1451-1456 (P.L. 94-370) The Coastal Zone Management Act Amendments of 1976 provides that each department, agency, and instrumentality of the Executive Branch of the Federal Government may assist the Secretary of Commerce, on a reimbursable basis or otherwise, in carrying out research and technical assistance for coastal zone management.

43 USC 1865 (P.L. 95-372) The Outer Continental Lands Act Amendments of 1978 provides that the Secretary of the Interior shall conduct a continuing investigation, on the basis of data and information that he determines have been adequately and independently audited and verified, for the purpose of determining the availability of all oil and gas produced or located in the Outer Continental Shelf, including oil and natural gas resources. The Secretary has directed the USGS to provide indirect support to the Minerals Management Service in meeting the objectives of the OCS Leasing Program.

30 USC 1419 et seq. (P.L. 96-283) The Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resource? Act of 1980 provides authorization for conducting a continuing program of ocean research that "shall include the development, acceleration, and expansion, as appropriate, of the studies of the ecological, geological, and physical aspects of the deep seabed in general areas of the ocean where exploration and commercial development are likely to occur...." The USGS provides geologic and mineral resource expertise in responding to the requirements of the act.

43 USC 1301 (P.L. 92-532) The Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 provides that the Secretary of Commerce must consult with the Secretary of the Interior prior to designating marine sanctuaries. The USGS provides information regarding the energy and mineral resource potential in areas being considered for designation as marine sanctuarie9 .

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