International Science in the National Interest at the U.S. Geological Survey

Science at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is intrinsically global, and from early in its history, the USGS has successfully carried out international projects that serve U.S. national interests and benefit the USGS domestic mission. Opportunities abound for the USGS to strategically pursue international science in the next 5-10 years that bears on growing worldwide problems having direct impact on the United States—climate and ecosystem changes, natural disasters, the spread of invasive species, and diminishing natural resources, to name a few. Taking a more coherent, proactive agency approach to international science—and building support for international projects currently in progress-would help the USGS participate in international science activities more effectively. Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary1 Introduction2 History and Context of USGS International Activities3 Ongoing International Scientific Activities at the USGS4 Strategic International Science Opportunities for the USGS5 Impediments to More Effective USGS Participation in International Science Activities6 Findings, Conclusions, and RecommendationsAppendixesAppendix A: USGS and DOI Mission and Authorization LanguageAppendix B: Committee and Staff Biographical SketchesAppendix C: USGS Historical International Engagement: Background PaperAppendix D: Meeting Agendas, Presentations, and Other Information Provided to the CommitteeAppendix E: Bibliography of Selected Peer-Reviewed Scientific Publications from USGS International Work