CHAPTER 2 - UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
Title 43 > CHAPTER 2
Sections (45)
§ 31 Director of United States Geological Survey
(a) Establishment of office; appointment and duties; examination of geological structure, mineral resources, and products of national domain; prohibitions in respect to lands and surveys The Director of the United States Geological Survey, which office is established, under the Interior Department, shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. This officer shall have the direction of the United States Geological Survey, and the classification of the public lands and examination of the geological structure, mineral resources, and products of the national domain. The Director and members of the United States Geological Survey shall have no personal or private interests in the lands or mineral wealth of the region under survey, and shall execute no surveys or examinations for private parties or corporations.
(b) Examination of geological structure, mineral resources, and products outside national domain The authority of the Secretary of the Interior, exercised through the United States Geological Survey of the Department of the Interior, to examine the geological structure, mineral resources, and products of the national domain, is expanded to authorize such examinations outside the national domain where determined by the Secretary to be in the national interest.
“SEC. 2 PURPOSES.
“The purpose of this Act is to— implement section 323 of the joint resolution entitled ‘Joint Resolution making continuing appropriations for the fiscal year 1985, and for other purposes’, approved October 12, 1984 ( Public Law 98–473 ; 98 Stat. 1875 ) [set out below] which supports and encourages the development of a national Continental Scientific Drilling Program; enhance fundamental understanding of the composition, structure, dynamics, and evolution of the continental crust, and how such processes affect natural phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, transfer of geothermal energy, distribution of mineral deposits, the occurrence of fossil fuels, and the nature and extent of aquifers; advance basic earth sciences research and technological development; obtain critical data regarding the earth’s crust relating to isolation of hazardous wastes; and develop a long-range plan for implementation of the Continental Scientific Drilling Program.
“SEC. 3 FINDINGS.
“Congress finds that— because the earth provides energy, minerals, and water, and is used as a storage medium for municipal, chemical, and nuclear waste, an understanding of the processes and structures in the earth’s crust is essential to the well being of the United States; there is a need for developing long-range plans for a United States Continental Scientific Drilling Program; and the Continental Scientific Drilling Program would enhance— understanding of the crustal evolution of the earth and the mountain building processes; understanding of the mechanisms of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and the development of improved techniques for prediction; understanding of the development and utilization of geothermal and other energy sources and the formation of and occurrence of mineral deposits; understanding of the migration of fluids in the earth’s crust for evaluation of waste contamination and the development of more effective techniques for the safe subsurface disposal of hazardous wastes; understanding and definition of the size, source, and more effective use of aquifers and other water resources; and evaluation and verification of surface geophysical techniques needed for exploring and monitoring the earth’s crust.
“SEC. 4 IMPLEMENTATION OF CONTINENTAL SCIENTIFIC DRILLING PROGRAM.
“The Secretary of the Department of Energy, the Secretary of the Department of the Interior through the United States Geological Survey, and the Director of the National Science Foundation shall implement the policies of section 323 of the joint resolution entitled ‘Joint Resolution making continuing appropriations for the fiscal year 1985, and for other purposes’, approved October 12, 1984 ( Public Law 98–473 ; 98 Stat. 1875 ) [set out below] by— taking such action as necessary to assure an effective, cooperative effort in furtherance of the Continental Scientific Drilling Program of the United States; taking all reasonable administrative and financial measures to assure that the Interagency Accord on Continental Scientific Drilling continues to function effectively in support of such program; assuring the continuing effective operation of the Interagency Coordinating Group to further the objectives of such program; taking such action to assure that the Interagency Coordinating Group receives appropriate cooperation from any Federal agency that can contribute to the objectives of such program, without adversely affecting any program or activity of such agency; acting through the Interagency Coordinating Group, preparing and submitting to the Congress, within one hundred and eighty days after the enactment of this Act [ Sept. 22, 1988 ] a report describing— long and short-term policy objectives and goals of the United States Continental Scientific Drilling Program; projected schedules of desirable scientific and engineering events that would advance United States objectives in the Continental Scientific Drilling Program; the levels of resources and funding for fiscal year 1989 that would be required by each participating Federal agency to carry out events pursuant to subparagraphs (A) and (B); the scientific, economic, technological, and social benefits expected to be realized through the implementation of such program at each level described in subparagraph (C); a recommended course for interaction with the international community in a cooperative effort to achieve the goals and purposes of this Act; the extent of participation or interest shown to date in the Continental Scientific Drilling Program by— any other governmental agency; any academic institution; any organization in the private sector; and any governmental or other entity in the international community; a plan to develop beneficial cooperative relationships among the entities mentioned in subparagraph (F), to the extent that the Interagency Coordinating Group deems practicable; and any other information or recommendations that the Interagency Coordinating Group deems appropriate; and submitting to the Congress annually, beginning one year after the submission of a report under paragraph (5), a report describing the levels of resources and funding that would be required by each participating Federal agency for the next fiscal year to carry out events pursuant to paragraph (5)(A) and (B).”
§ 31a Findings and purpose
(a) Findings The Congress finds and declares that— although significant progress has been made in the production of geologic maps since the establishment of the national cooperative geologic mapping program in 1992, no modern, digital, geologic map exists for approximately 75 percent of the United States; geologic maps are the primary data base for virtually all applied and basic earth-science investigations, including— exploration for and development of mineral, energy, and water resources; screening and characterizing sites for toxic and nuclear waste disposal; land use evaluation and planning for homeland and environmental protection; earthquake hazards reduction; identifying volcanic hazards; design and construction of infrastructure requirements such as utility lifelines, transportation corridors, and surface-water impoundments; reducing losses from landslides and other ground failures; mitigating effects of coastal and stream erosion; siting of critical facilities; recreation and public awareness; and basic earth-science research; Federal agencies, State and local governments, private industry, and the general public depend on the information provided by geologic maps to determine the extent of potential environmental damage before embarking on projects that could lead to preventable, costly environmental problems or litigation; the combined capabilities of State, Federal, and academic groups to provide geologic mapping are not sufficient to meet the present and future needs of the United States for national security, environmental protection, and energy self-sufficiency of the Nation; States are willing to contribute 50 percent of the funding necessary to complete the mapping of the geology within the State; the lack of proper geologic maps has led to the poor design of such structures as dams and waste-disposal facilities; geologic maps have proven indispensable in the search for needed fossil-fuel and mineral resources; geologic map information is required for the sustainable and balanced development of natural resources of all types, including energy, minerals, land, water, and biological resources; advances in digital technology and geographical information system science have made geologic map databases increasingly available as decision support tools for land and resource management; and a comprehensive nationwide program of geologic mapping of surficial and bedrock deposits is required in order to systematically build the Nation’s geologic-map data base at a pace that responds to increasing demand.
(b) Purpose The purpose of sections 31a to 31h of this title is to expedite the production of a geologic-map data base for the Nation, to be located within the United States Geological Survey, which can be applied to land-use management, assessment, and utilization, conservation of natural resources, groundwater management, and environmental protection and management.
§ 31b Definitions
In sections 31a to 31h of this title: The term “advisory committee” means the advisory committee established under section 31d of this title . The term “Association” means the Association of American State Geologists. The term “Director” means the Director of the United States Geological Survey. The term “education component” means the education component of the geologic mapping program described in section 31c(d)(3) of this title . The term “Federal component” means the Federal component of the geologic mapping program described in section 31c(d)(1) of this title . The term “geologic mapping program” means the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program established by section 31c(a) of this title . The term “Secretary” means the Secretary of the Interior. The term “State” includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Virgin Islands. The term “State component” means the State component of the geologic mapping program described in section 31c(d)(2) of this title . The term “Survey” means the United States Geological Survey. ( Pub. L. 102–285, § 3 , May 18, 1992 , 106 Stat. 167 ; Pub. L. 105–36, § 3(a) , Aug. 5, 1997 , 111 Stat. 1107 ; Pub. L. 106–148, § 3 , Dec. 9, 1999 , 113 Stat. 1719 ; Pub. L. 116–9, title V, § 5002(c) , Mar. 12, 2019 , 133 Stat. 768 .)
§ 31c Geologic mapping program
(a) Establishment There is established a national cooperative geologic mapping program between the United States Geological Survey and the State geological surveys, acting through the Association. The cooperative geologic mapping program shall be— designed and administered to achieve the objectives set forth in subsection (c); developed in consultation with the advisory committee; and administered through the Survey.
(b) Responsibilities of the Survey The Survey shall be the lead Federal agency responsible for planning, developing national priorities and standards for, coordinating, and managing the geologic mapping program. In carrying out this paragraph, the Secretary, acting through the Director, shall— develop a 5-year strategic plan for the geologic mapping program in accordance with section 31e of this title , which plan shall be submitted to the Committee on Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate not later than 1 year after March 12, 2019 ; appoint, with the advice and consultation of the Association, the advisory committee not later than 1 year after March 12, 2019 , in accordance with section 31d of this title ; and submit biennially a report to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the United States Senate and to the Committee on Resources of the House of Representatives identifying— how the Survey and the Association are coordinating the development and implementation of the geologic mapping program; how the Survey and the Association establish goals, mapping priorities, and target dates for implementation of the geologic mapping program; and how long-term staffing plans for the various components of the geologic mapping program affect successful implementation of the geologic mapping program. In addition to paragraph (1), the Secretary, acting through the Director, shall be responsible for developing, as soon as practicable— in cooperation with the Association, other Federal and State agencies, public and private sector organizations and academia, the geologic-map data base; and maps and mapping techniques which achieve the objectives specified in subsection (c).
(c) Program objectives The objectives of the geologic mapping program shall include— determining the Nation’s geologic framework through systematic development of geologic maps at scales appropriate to the geologic setting and the perceived applications, such maps to be contributed to the national geologic map data base; development of a complementary national geochronologic and paleontologic data base that provides value-added descriptive and interpretative information to the geologic-map data base; application of cost-effective mapping techniques that assemble, produce, translate and disseminate geologic-map information and that render such information of greater application and benefit to the public; and development of public awareness of the role and application of geologic-map information to the resolution of national issues of land use management.
(d) Program components The geologic mapping program shall include a Federal geologic mapping component, the objective of which shall be to determine the geologic framework of areas determined to be vital to the economic, social, environmental, or scientific welfare of the United States. For the Federal component, mapping priorities— shall be described in the 5-year plan under section 31e of this title ; and shall be based on— national requirements for geologic map information in areas of multiple-issue need or areas of compelling single-issue need; national requirements for geologic map information in areas where mapping is required to solve critical earth science problems; and the needs of land management agencies of the Department of the Interior. The Federal component shall include interdisciplinary studies that add value to geologic mapping. Interdisciplinary studies under clause (i) may include— establishment of a national geologic map database under section 31f of this title ; studies that lead to the implementation of cost-effective digital methods for the acquisition, compilation, analysis, cartographic production, and dissemination of geologic map information; paleontologic, geochrono-logic, and isotopic investigations that provide information critical to understanding the age and history of geologic map units; geophysical investigations that assist in delineating and mapping the physical characteristics and 3-dimensional distribution of geologic materials and geologic structures; and geochemical investigations and analytical operations that characterize the composition of geologic map units. The results of investigations under clause (ii) shall be contributed to national databases. The geologic mapping program shall include a State geologic mapping component, the objective of which shall be to establish the geologic framework of areas determined to be vital to the economic, social, environmental, or scientific welfare of individual States. For the State component, mapping priorities— shall be determined by State panels representing a broad range of users of geologic maps; and shall be based on— State requirements for geologic map information in areas of multiple-issue need or areas of compelling single-issue need; and State requirements for geologic map information in areas where mapping is required to solve critical earth science problems. A national panel including representatives of the Survey shall integrate the State mapping priorities under this paragraph with the Federal mapping priorities under paragraph (1). The Survey and recipients of grants under the State component shall not use more than 15.25 percent of the Federal funds made available under the State component for any fiscal year to pay indirect, servicing, or program management charges. The Federal share of the cost of activities under the State component for any fiscal year shall not exceed 50 percent. The geologic mapping program shall include a geologic mapping education component for the training of geologic mappers, the objectives of which shall be— to provide for broad education in geologic mapping and field analysis through support of field studies; and to develop academic programs that teach students of earth science the fundamental principles of geologic mapping and field analysis. The education component may include the conduct of investigations, which— shall be integrated with the Federal component and the State component; and shall respond to mapping priorities identified for the Federal component and the State component. The Survey and recipients of grants under the education component shall not use more than 15.25 percent of the Federal funds made available under the education component for any fiscal year to pay indirect, servicing, or program management charges. The Federal share of the cost of activities under the education component for any fiscal year shall not exceed 50 percent. The geologic mapping program shall include an abandoned mine land and mine waste geologic mapping component, the objective of which shall be to establish the geologic framework of abandoned mine land and other land containing mine waste. For the component described in subparagraph (A), the priority shall be mapping abandoned mine land and other land containing mine waste where multiple critical mineral (as defined in section 1606(a) of title 30 ) and metal commodities are anticipated to be present, rather than single mineral resources.
§ 31d Advisory committee
(a) Establishment There shall be established a 11-member geologic mapping advisory committee to advise the Director on planning and implementation of the geologic mapping program. Federal agency members shall include the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency or a designee, the Secretary of the Interior or a designee from a land management agency of the Department of the Interior, the Secretary of Energy or a designee, and the Secretary of Agriculture or a designee. In consultation with the Association, the Secretary shall appoint to the advisory committee two representatives from the Survey (including the Associate Director for Core Science Systems, as Chair), two representatives from the State geological surveys, one representative from academia, and 2 representatives from the private sector.
(b) Duties The advisory committee shall— review and update the 5-year plan prepared by the Director pursuant to section 31e of this title ; review the scientific progress of the geologic mapping program; provide a scientific overview of geologic maps (including maps of geologic-based hazards) used or disseminated by Federal agencies for regulation or land-use planning; and submit an annual report to the Secretary that evaluates the progress of the Federal, State, and university mapping activities and evaluates the progress made toward fulfilling the purposes of sections 31c through 31f of this title.
§ 31e Geologic mapping program 5-year plan
(a) In general The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall, with the advice and review of the advisory committee, prepare a 5-year plan for the geologic mapping program.
(b) Requirements The 5-year plan shall identify— overall priorities for the geologic mapping program; and implementation of the overall management structure and operation of the geologic mapping program, including— the role of the Survey in the capacity of overall management lead, including the responsibility for developing the national geologic mapping program that meets Federal needs while fostering State needs; the responsibilities of the State geological surveys, with emphasis on mechanisms that incorporate the needs, missions, capabilities, and requirements of the State geological surveys, into the nationwide geologic mapping program; mechanisms for identifying short- and long-term priorities for each component of the geologic mapping program, including— for the Federal component, a priority-setting mechanism that responds to— Federal mission requirements for geologic map information; critical scientific problems that require geologic maps for their resolution; and shared Federal and State needs for geologic maps, in which joint Federal-State geologic mapping projects are in the national interest; for the State component, a priority-setting mechanism that responds to— specific intrastate needs for geologic map information; and interstate needs shared by adjacent States that have common requirements; and for the education component, a priority-setting mechanism that responds to requirements for geologic map information that are dictated by Federal and State mission requirements; a mechanism for adopting scientific and technical mapping standards for preparing and publishing general- and special-purpose geologic maps to— ensure uniformity of cartographic and scientific conventions; and provide a basis for assessing the comparability and quality of map products; and a mechanism for monitoring the inventory of published and current mapping investigations nationwide to facilitate planning and information exchange and to avoid redundancy.
§ 31f National geologic map database
(a) Establishment The Survey shall establish a national geologic-map database. The database shall serve as a national catalog and archive, distributed through links to Federal and State geologic map holdings, that includes— all maps developed with funding provided by the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, including under the Federal, State, and education components; the databases developed in connection with investigations under subclauses (III), (IV), and (V) of section 31c(d)(1)(C)(ii) of this title ; and other maps and data that the Survey and the Association consider appropriate.
(b) Standardization Geologic maps contributed to the national archives shall have format, symbols, and technical attributes that adhere to standards so that archival information can be accessed, exchanged, and compared efficiently and accurately, as required by Executive Order 12906 (59 Fed. Reg. 17,671 (1994)), which established the National Spatial Data Infrastructure. Entities that contribute geologic maps to the national archives shall develop the standards described in paragraph (1) in cooperation with the Federal Geographic Data Committee, which is charged with standards development and other data coordination activities as described in Office of Management and Budget revised Circular A–16.
§ 31g Biennial report
Not later than 3 years after March 30, 2009 , and biennially thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that— describes the status of the national geologic mapping program; describes and evaluates the progress achieved during the preceding 2 years in developing the national geologic map database; and includes any recommendations that the Secretary may have for legislative or other action to achieve the purposes of sections 31c through 31f of this title. ( Pub. L. 102–285, § 8 , as added Pub. L. 106–148, § 8 , Dec. 9, 1999 , 113 Stat. 1724 ; amended Pub. L. 111–11, title XI, § 11001(h) , Mar. 30, 2009 , 123 Stat. 1415 .)
§ 31h Authorization of appropriations
(a) In general There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out sections 31a to 31h of this title $64,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2031.
(b) Allocation of appropriations Of any amounts appropriated for any fiscal year in excess of the amount appropriated for fiscal year 2005— 50 percent shall be available for the State component; and 4 percent shall be available for the education component.
§ 31i Report on resource research activities
Once every five years the National Academy of Sciences shall review and report on the resource research activities of the Survey. ( Pub. L. 104–134, title I, § 101(c) [title I] , Apr. 26, 1996 , 110 Stat. 1321–156 , 1321–165; renumbered title I, Pub. L. 104–140, § 1(a) , May 2, 1996 , 110 Stat. 1327 .)
§ 31j Biological research activity of Survey; review and report by National Academy of Sciences
Beginning in fiscal year 1998 and once every five years thereafter, the National Academy of Sciences shall review and report on the biological research activity of the Survey. ( Pub. L. 104–208, div. A, title I, § 101(d) [title I] , Sept. 30, 1996 , 110 Stat. 3009–181 , 3009–189.)
§ 31k National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System
(a) Definitions In this section: The term “Secretary” means the Secretary, acting through the Director of the United States Geological Survey. The term “Secretary of Commerce” means the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere. The term “System” means the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System established under subsection (b)(1)(A). The term “Volcanic Ash Advisory Center” means an entity designated by the International Civil Aviation Organization that is responsible for informing aviation interests about the presence of volcanic ash in the airspace.
(b) National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System The Secretary shall establish within the United States Geological Survey a system, to be known as the “National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System”, to monitor, warn, and protect citizens of the United States from undue and avoidable harm from volcanic activity. The purposes of the System are— to organize, modernize, standardize, and stabilize the monitoring systems of the volcano observatories in the United States, which includes the Alaska Volcano Observatory, California Volcano Observatory, Cascades Volcano Observatory, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, and Yellowstone Volcano Observatory; to unify the monitoring systems of volcano observatories in the United States into a single interoperative system; and to strengthen the warning and monitoring systems of volcano observatories in the United States by integrating relevant capacities of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, including with the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers located in Anchorage, Alaska, and Washington, D.C., to observe and model emissions of gases, aerosols, and ash, atmospheric dynamics and chemistry, and ocean chemistry resulting from volcanic eruptions. The objective of the System is to monitor all the volcanoes in the United States at a level commensurate with the threat posed by the volcanoes by— upgrading existing networks on monitored volcanoes; installing new networks on unmonitored volcanoes; and employing geodetic and other components when applicable. The System shall include— a national volcano watch office that is operational 24 hours a day and 7 days a week; a national volcano data center; and an external grants program to support research in volcano monitoring science and technology. Modernization activities under the System shall include the comprehensive application of emerging technologies, including digital broadband seismometers, real-time continuous Global Positioning System receivers, satellite and airborne radar interferometry, acoustic pressure sensors, spectrometry to measure gas emissions, and unoccupied aerial vehicles. The Secretary and the Secretary of Commerce shall develop and execute a memorandum of understanding to establish cooperative support for the activities of the System from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, including environmental observations, modeling, and temporary duty assignments of personnel to support emergency activities, as necessary or appropriate. Not later than 180 days after March 12, 2019 , the Secretary shall submit to Congress a 5-year management plan for establishing and operating the System. The management plan submitted under clause (i) shall include— annual cost estimates for modernization activities and operation of the System; annual milestones, standards, and performance goals; and recommendations for, and progress towards, establishing new, or enhancing existing, partnerships to leverage resources. The Secretary of Commerce shall submit to the Secretary annual cost estimates for modernization activities and support of the System for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The Secretary shall update the management plan submitted under clause (i) to include the cost estimates submitted under subclause (I). The Secretary shall establish an advisory committee to assist the Secretary in implementing the System, to be comprised of representatives of relevant agencies and members of the scientific community, to be appointed by the Secretary. The Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements with institutions of higher education and State agencies designating the institutions of higher education and State agencies as volcano observatory partners for the System. The Secretary shall coordinate the activities under this section with the heads of relevant Federal agencies, including— the Secretary of Transportation; the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration; the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; and the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The Secretary of Commerce shall collaborate with the Secretary to implement activities carried out under this section related to the expertise of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, including observations and modeling of emissions of gases, aerosols, and ash, atmospheric dynamics and chemistry, and ocean chemistry resulting from volcanic eruptions. Annually, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report that describes the activities carried out under this section.
(c) Funding There is authorized to be appropriated to the United States Geological Survey to carry out this section $55,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2019 through 2023. There is authorized to be appropriated to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary for the period of fiscal years 2023 through 2024. Amounts made available under this subsection shall supplement, and not supplant, Federal funds made available for other hazards activities and programs of the United States Geological Survey and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
§ 31l Earth Mapping Resources Initiative
(a) Definition of critical mineral In this section, the term “critical mineral” has the meaning given the term in section 1606(a) of title 30 .
(b) Establishment There is established within the United States Geological Survey an initiative, to be known as the “Earth Mapping Resources Initiative” (referred to in this section as the “Initiative”).
(c) Purpose The purpose of the Initiative shall be to accelerate efforts to carry out the fundamental resources and mapping mission of the United States Geological Survey by— providing integrated topographic, geologic, geochemical, and geophysical mapping; accelerating the integration and consolidation of geospatial and resource data; and providing interpretation of subsurface and above-ground mineral resources data.
(d) Cooperative agreements In carrying out the Initiative, the Director of the United States Geological Survey may enter into cooperative agreements with State geological surveys. Nothing in paragraph (1) precludes the Director of the United States Geological Survey from using existing contracting authorities in carrying out the Initiative.
(e) Comprehensive mapping modernization Not later than 10 years after November 15, 2021 , the Initiative shall complete an initial comprehensive national modern surface and subsurface mapping and data integration effort. In carrying out paragraph (1) with regard to minerals, mineralization, and mineral deposits, the Initiative shall focus on the full range of minerals, using a whole ore body approach rather than a single commodity approach, to emphasize all of the recoverable critical minerals in a given surface or subsurface deposit. In carrying out paragraph (1) with regard to minerals, mineralization, and mineral deposits, the Initiative shall prioritize mapping and assessing critical minerals. In carrying out paragraph (1), the Initiative shall also— map and collect data for areas containing mine waste to increase understanding of above-ground critical mineral resources in previously disturbed areas; and provide for analysis of samples, including samples within the National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program established under section 15908(b) of title 42 for the occurrence of critical minerals.
(f) Availability The Initiative shall make the geospatial data and metadata gathered by the Initiative under subsection (e)(1) electronically publicly accessible on an ongoing basis.
(g) Integration of data sources The Initiative shall integrate data sources, including data from— the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program established by section 31c(a)(1) of this title ; the National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program established under section 15908(b) of title 42 ; the USMIN Mineral Deposit Database of the United States Geological Survey; the 3D Elevation Program established under section 3104(a) of this title ; and other relevant sources, including sources providing geothermal resources data.
(h) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $320,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026, to remain available until expended.
§ 32 Acting Director
The Secretary of the Interior may authorize one of the geologists to act as Director of the United States Geological Survey in the absence of that officer. ( July 31, 1894, ch. 174, § 1 , 28 Stat. 197 ; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 33 Repealed. Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, § 53, 70A Stat. 641
§ 34 Scientific employees
The scientific employees of the United States Geological Survey shall be selected by the Director, subject to the approval of the Secretary of the Interior exclusively for their qualifications as professional experts. ( July 7, 1884, ch. 332 , 23 Stat. 212 ; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 35 Repealed. Pub. L. 87–304, § 9(a)(2), Sept. 26, 1961, 75 Stat. 664
§ 36 Purchase of books
The purchase of professional and scientific books and periodicals needed for statistical purposes by the scientific divisions of the United States Geological Survey is authorized to be made and paid for out of appropriations made for the said Survey. ( June 28, 1902, ch. 1301, § 1 , 32 Stat. 455 .)
§ 36a Acquisition of scientific or technical books, maps, etc., for library
The Director of the United States Geological Survey, under the general supervision of the Secretary of the Interior, is authorized to acquire for the United States, by gift or devise, scientific or technical books, manuscripts, maps, and related materials, and to deposit the same in the library of the United States Geological Survey for reference and use as authorized by law. ( May 14, 1940, ch. 190 , 54 Stat. 212 ; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 36b Acquisition of lands or interests therein for use in gaging streams or underground water resources
The Secretary of the Interior may, on behalf of the United States and for use by the United States Geological Survey in gaging streams and underground water resources, acquire lands by donation or when funds have been appropriated by Congress by purchase or condemnation, but not in excess of ten acres for any one stream gaging station or observation well site. For the same purpose the Secretary of the Interior may obtain easements, licenses, rights-of-way, and leases limited to run for such a period of time or term of years as may be required for the effective performance of the function of gaging streams and underground water resources: Provided , That nothing in this section shall be construed as affecting or intended to affect or in any way to interfere with the laws of any State or Territory relating to the control, appropriation, use, or distribution of water used in irrigation, or any vested right acquired thereunder, and the Secretary of the Interior, in carrying out the provisions of this section, shall proceed in conformity with such laws, and nothing in this section shall in any way affect any right of any State or of the Federal Government or of any landowner, appropriator, or user of water, in, to, or from any interstate stream or the waters thereof. ( Dec. 24, 1942, ch. 822 , 56 Stat. 1086 ; Pub. L. 86–406 , Apr. 4, 1960 , 74 Stat. 14 ; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 36c Acceptance of contributions from public and private sources; cooperation with other agencies in prosecution of projects
In fiscal year 1987 and thereafter the United States Geological Survey is authorized to accept lands, buildings, equipment, and other contributions from public and private sources and to prosecute projects in cooperation with other agencies, Federal, State, or private. ( Pub. L. 99–500, § 101(h) [title I] , Oct. 18, 1986 , 100 Stat. 1783–242 , 1783–252, and Pub. L. 99–591, § 101(h) [title I] , Oct. 30, 1986 , 100 Stat. 3341–242 , 3341–252; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 36d Cooperative agreements
Notwithstanding the provisions of the Federal Grant and Cooperative Agreement Act of 1977 ( 31 U.S.C. 6301–630 8), the United States Geological Survey is authorized to continue existing, and on and after November 10, 2003 , to enter into new cooperative agreements directed towards a particular cooperator, in support of joint research and data collection activities with Federal, State, and academic partners funded by appropriations herein, including those that provide for space in cooperator facilities. ( Pub. L. 108–108, title I , Nov. 10, 2003 , 117 Stat. 1254 .)
§ 37 Omitted
§ 38 Topographic surveys; marking elevations
In making topographic surveys west of the ninety-fifth meridian elevations above a base level located in each area under survey shall be determined and marked on the ground by iron or stone posts or permanent bench marks, at least two such posts or bench marks to be established in each township, or equivalent area, except in the forest-clad and mountain areas, where at least one shall be established, and these shall be placed, whenever practicable, near the township corners of the public-land surveys; and in the areas east of the ninety-fifth meridian at least one such post or bench mark shall be similarly established in each area equivalent to the area of a township of the public land surveys. ( June 11, 1896, ch. 420 , 29 Stat. 435 .)
§§ 39, 40 Omitted
§ 41 Publications and reports; preparation and sale
Except as otherwise provided in section 1318 of title 44 , the publications of the United States Geological Survey shall consist of geological and economic maps, illustrating the resources and classification of the lands, and reports upon general and economic geology and paleontology. All special memoirs and reports of said survey shall be issued in uniform quarto series if deemed necessary by the director, but otherwise in ordinary octavos. Three thousand copies of each shall be published for scientific exchanges and for sale at the price of publication, and all literary and cartographic materials received in exchange shall be the property of the United States and form a part of the library of the organization; and the money resulting from the sale of such publications shall be covered into the Treasury of the United States, under the direction of the Secretary of the Interior. ( Mar. 3, 1879, ch. 182 , 20 Stat. 394 ; Aug. 7, 1946, ch. 770, § 1(10) , 60 Stat. 867 ; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 42 Distribution of maps and atlases, etc.
The Director of the United States Geological Survey is authorized and directed, on the approval of the Secretary of the Interior, to dispose of the topographic and geologic maps and atlases of the United States, made and published by the United States Geological Survey, at such prices and under such regulations as may from time to time be fixed by him and approved by the Secretary of the Interior; and a number of copies of each map or atlas, not exceeding five hundred, shall be distributed gratuitously among foreign governments and departments of our own Government to literary and scientific associations, and to such educational institutions or libraries as may be designated by the Director of the Survey and approved by the Secretary of the Interior. On and after June 7, 1924 , the distribution of geological publications to libraries designated as special depositaries of such publications shall be discontinued. ( Feb. 18, 1897 , No. 13, § 1, 29 Stat. 701 ; June 7, 1924, ch. 303 , 43 Stat. 592 ; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 42a Use of receipts from sale of maps for map printing and distribution
In fiscal year 1984 and thereafter, all receipts from the sale of maps sold or stored by the United States Geological Survey shall be available for map printing and distribution to supplement funds otherwise available, to remain available until expended. ( Pub. L. 98–146, title I , Nov. 4, 1983 , 97 Stat. 926 ; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 43 Copies to Senators, Representatives, and Delegates
One copy of each map and atlas shall be sent to each Senator and each Representative and Delegate in Congress, if published within his term; and a second copy shall be placed at the disposal of each such Senator, Representative and Delegate ( Feb. 18, 1897 , No. 13, § 2, 29 Stat. 701 .)
§ 44 Sale of transfers or copies of data
The Director of the United States Geological Survey shall, if the regular map work of the Survey is in no wise interfered with thereby, furnish to any person, concern, institution, State or foreign government, that shall pay in advance the whole cost thereof with 10 per centum added, transfers or copies of any cartographic or other engraved or lithographic data in the division of engraving and printing of the Survey, and the moneys received by the Director for such transfers or copies shall be deposited in the Treasury. ( June 30, 1906, ch. 3914 , 34 Stat. 727 ; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 45 Production and sale of copies of photographs and records; disposition of receipts
The Director of the United States Geological Survey on and after March 4, 1909 may produce and sell on a reimbursable basis to interested persons, concerns, and institutions, copies of aerial or other photographs and mosaics that have been obtained in connection with the authorized work of the United States Geological Survey and photographic or photostatic reproductions of records in the official custody of the Director at such prices (not less than the estimated cost of furnishing such copies or reproductions) as the Director, with the approval of the Secretary of the Interior, may determine, the money received from such sales to be deposited in the Treasury to the credit of the appropriation then current and chargeable for the cost of furnishing copies or reproductions as herein authorized. ( Mar. 4, 1909, ch. 299 , 35 Stat. 989 ; July 21, 1947, ch. 273 , 61 Stat. 398 .)
§ 46 Omitted
§ 47 Repealed. Aug. 7, 1946, ch. 770, § 1(11), 60 Stat. 867
§ 48 Omitted
§ 49 Extension of cooperative work to Puerto Rico
The provisions of law authorizing the making of topographic and geological surveys and conducting investigations relating to mineral and water resources by the United States Geological Survey in various portions of the United States be, and the same are, extended to authorize such surveys and investigations in Puerto Rico. ( June 17, 1935, ch. 268 , 49 Stat. 386 .)
§ 50 Survey’s share of cost of topographic mapping or water resources investigations carried on with States
The share of the United States Geological Survey in any topographic mapping or water resources data collection and investigations carried on in cooperation with any State or municipality shall not exceed 50 per centum of the cost thereof. ( Pub. L. 118–42, div. E, title I , Mar. 9, 2024 , 138 Stat. 227 .)
§ 50–1 Funds for mappings and investigations considered intragovernmental funds
Beginning October 1, 1990 , and thereafter, funds received from any State, territory, possession, country, international organization, or political subdivision thereof, for topographic, geologic, or water resources mapping or investigations involving cooperation with such an entity shall be considered as intragovernmental funds as defined in the publication titled “A Glossary of Terms Used in the Federal Budget Process”. ( Pub. L. 101–512, title I , Nov. 5, 1990 , 104 Stat. 1924 .)
§ 50a Working capital fund for United States Geological Survey
There is hereby established in the Treasury of the United States a working capital fund to assist in the management of certain support activities of the United States Geological Survey (hereafter referred to as the “Survey”), Department of the Interior. The fund shall be available on and after November 5, 1990 , without fiscal year limitation for expenses necessary for furnishing materials, supplies, equipment, work, facilities, and services in support of Survey programs, and, as authorized by law, to agencies of the Federal Government and others. Such expenses may include laboratory modernization and equipment replacement, computer operations, maintenance, and telecommunications services; requirements definition, systems analysis, and design services; acquisition or development of software; systems support services such as implementation assistance, training, and maintenance; acquisition and replacement of computer, publications, scientific instrumentation, telecommunications, and related automatic data processing equipment; and, such other activities as may be approved by the Secretary of the Interior. There are authorized to be transferred to the fund, at fair and reasonable values at the time of transfer, inventories, equipment, receivables, and other assets, less liabilities, related to the functions to be financed by the fund as determined by the Secretary of the Interior: Provided , That the fund shall be credited with appropriations and other funds of the Survey, and other agencies of the Department of the Interior, other Federal agencies, and other sources, for providing materials, supplies, equipment, work, and services as authorized by law and such payments may be made in advance or upon performance: Provided further , That charges to users will be at rates approximately equal to the costs of furnishing the materials, supplies, equipment, facilities, and services, including such items as depreciation of equipment and facilities, and accrued annual leave: Provided further , That all existing balances as of November 5, 1990 , from amortization fees resulting from the Survey providing telecommunications services and deposited in a special fund established on the books of the Treasury and available for payment of replacement or expansion of telecommunications services as authorized by Public Law 99–190 , are hereby transferred to and merged with the working capital fund, to be used for the same purposes as originally authorized: Provided further , That funds that are not necessary to carry out the activities to be financed by the fund, as determined by the Secretary, shall be covered into miscellaneous receipts of the Treasury. ( Pub. L. 101–512, title I , Nov. 5, 1990 , 104 Stat. 1924 ; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 ; Pub. L. 103–332, title I , Sept. 30, 1994 , 108 Stat. 2507 .)
§ 50b Recording of obligations against accounts receivable and crediting of amounts received; work involving cooperation with State, Territory, etc.
Before, on, and after October 18, 1986 , in carrying out work involving cooperation with any State, Territory, possession, or political subdivision thereof, the United States Geological Survey may, notwithstanding any other provision of law, record obligations against accounts receivable from any such entities and shall credit amounts received from such entities to this appropriation. ( Pub. L. 99–500, § 101(h) [title I] , Oct. 18, 1986 , 100 Stat. 1783–242 , 1783–252, and Pub. L. 99–591, § 101(h) [title I] , Oct. 30, 1986 , 100 Stat. 3341–242 , 3341–252; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 50c Payment of costs incidental to utilization of services of volunteers
Appropriations herein and on and after December 22, 1987 , made shall be available for paying costs incidental to the utilization of services contributed by individuals who serve without compensation as volunteers in aid of work of the United States Geological Survey, and that within appropriations herein and on and after December 22, 1987 , provided, United States Geological Survey officials may authorize either direct procurement of or reimbursement for expenses incidental to the effective use of volunteers such as, but not limited to, training, transportation, lodging, subsistence, equipment, and supplies: Provided further , That provision for such expenses or services is in accord with volunteer or cooperative agreements made with such individuals, private organizations, educational institutions, or State or local government. ( Pub. L. 100–202, § 101(g) [title I] , Dec. 22, 1987 , 101 Stat. 1329–213 , 1329–224; Pub. L. 102–154, title I , Nov. 13, 1991 , 105 Stat. 1000 .)
§ 50d Services of students or recent graduates
The United States Geological Survey may on and after November 29, 1999 , contract directly with individuals or indirectly with institutions or nonprofit organizations, without regard to section 6101 of title 41 , for the temporary or intermittent services of students or recent graduates, who shall be considered employees for the purposes of chapters 57 and 81 of title 5, relating to compensation for travel and work injuries, and chapter 171 of title 28, relating to tort claims, but shall not be considered to be Federal employees for any other purposes. ( Pub. L. 106–113, div. B, § 1000(a)(3) [title I] , Nov. 29, 1999 , 113 Stat. 1535 , 1501A–146.)
§ 50e USGS energy and minerals research facility
(a) Establishment The Director of the United States Geological Survey (referred to in this section as the “Director”), 1 shall fund, through a cooperative agreement with an academic partner, the design, construction, and tenant build-out of a facility to support energy and minerals research and appurtenant associated structures.
(b) Ownership The United States Geological Survey shall retain ownership of the facility and associated structures described in subsection (a).
(c) Agreements The Director may enter into agreements with, and to collect and expend funds or in-kind contributions from, academic, Federal, State, or other tenants over the life of the facility described in subsection (a) for the purposes of— facility planning; design; maintenance; operation; or facility improvements.
(d) Leases The Director may enter into a lease or other agreement with the academic partner with which the Director has entered into a cooperative agreement under subsection (a), at no cost to the Federal Government, to obtain land on which to construct the facility described in that subsection for a term of not less than 99 years.
(e) Reports The Director shall submit to Congress annual reports on— the facility described in subsection (a); and the authorities used under this section.
(f) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of the Interior to carry out this section $167,000,000 for fiscal year 2022, to remain available until expended.