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 Contents


Front Matter
Summary
1 Introduction
2 History and Context of USGS International Activities
3 Ongoing International Scientific Activities at the USGS
4 Strategic International Science Opportunities for the USGS
5 Impediments to More Effective USGS Participation in International Science Activities
6 Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations
Appendixes
Appendix A: USGS and DOI Mission and Authorization Language
Appendix B: Committee and Staff Biographical Sketches
Appendix C: USGS Historical International Engagement: Background Paper
Appendix D: Meeting Agendas, Presentations, and Other Information Provided to the Committee
Appendix E: Bibliography of Selected Peer-Reviewed Scientific Publications from USGS International Work