Core Science Systems—Mission overview

The Core Science Systems Mission Area delivers nationally focused Earth systems and information science that provides fundamental research and data that underpins all Mission Areas of the USGS, the USGS Science Strategy, and Presidential, Secretarial, and societal priorities.

—Kevin T. Gallagher, Associate Director, Core Science Systems

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Core Science Systems (CSS) Mission Area spans the Earth’s “Critical Zone” (National Research Council, 2001). The Critical Zone is the near-surface interface that extends from the tops of the trees down to the base of the deepest groundwater. CSS provides a foundation for all USGS Mission Areas, as well as for the mission of the Department of the Interior (DOI), in the following ways: • Conducts basic and applied science research and development • Fosters broad understanding and application of analyses and information • Provides a framework for data and information sharing • Creates new geospatially enabled data and information • Provides technical expertise in standards and methods

Mapping

One of the cornerstones of the USGS is our role as the civilian mapping agency for the Nation. Through collaborative efforts with Federal, State, and local partners, the USGS delivers nationally consistent, high-quality geologic, topographic, and biogeographic information. USGS mapping products and services have many uses—from recreation to scientific analysis to emergency response. Accurate geologic maps and threedimensional framework models are used to help mitigate natural hazards and sustain and improve the quality of life and economic vitality of the Nation.

Mapping is also foundational to addressing the DOI mission to protect America’s treasures for future generations, provide access to our Nation’s natural and cultural heritage, offer recreational opportunities, honor our Trust responsibilities, conduct scientific research, provide wise stewardship of energy and mineral resources, foster sound use of land and water resources, and conserve and protect fish and wildlife.

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• The National Cooperative Geologic Mapping

Research

Scientific research within CSS addresses myriad societal issues and contributes to research activities in other USGS Mission Areas.

• National Cooperative Geologic Mapping
• Center of Excellence for Geospatial

Standards

CSS leads the USGS in the development and implementation of national standards that aid in the creation, management, and dissemination of digital Earth systems information to stakeholders.

• Federal Geographic Data Committee, Office of the

Synthesis

Computer and information sciences play an increasingly important role in achieving the USGS mission. CSS facilitates multiple Bureau activities in support of data integration and synthesis.

• John Wesley Powell Center for Analysis and

Collections

Earth and natural science research is based on the cumulative observation, analysis, and documentation of generations of researchers. The USGS is the custodian of the record of much of those activities for the Nation, and collections managed by CSS are truly foundational resources for future research activities.

Collections managed by CSS include national map databases, physical samples, data derived for analysis, published research, current and historical photographs, field notes, and records produced in the pursuit of science. These collections continue to grow and are now largely digital. Physical and digital collections are the starting point for much of our future research efforts, and the contexts that these materials provide for ongoing efforts are important and valuable to researchers across the USGS and worldwide.

National ICE CORE Laboratory Partnerships

Scientific research is inherently based on collaboration, and developing and managing partnerships is a key component of CSS. From facilitating a community for data integration to supporting research projects, CSS develops and applies standards, data management tools, and strategies that address research priorities for the USGS and its partners. CSS leads and collaborates with Federal, State, and international agencies, universities, private industry, and others to achieve societal goals. Also, USGS grants and cooperative agreements managed by CSS provide critical funding to partners.

• National Digital Catalog of Geological and

Contact Information

Kevin T. Gallagher Associate Director for Core Science Systems

108 National Center, 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive Reston, Virginia 20192 Voice: 703-648-5748, Fax: 703-648-7031 kgallagher@usgs.gov

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