Organic Act of March 3, 1879

43 USC Ch. 2: UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
From Title 43—PUBLIC LANDS

CHAPTER 2—UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
Sec.

31.
31a.
31b.
31c.
31d.
31e.
31f.
31g.
31h.
31i.
31j.
31k.
31l.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
36a.
36b.
36c.
36d.
37.
38.
39, 40.
41.
42.
42a.
43.
44.
45.
46 to 48.
49.
50.
50–1.
50a.
50b.
50c.
50d.
50e.

Director of United States Geological Survey.
Findings and purpose.
Definitions.
Geologic mapping program.
Advisory committee.
Geologic mapping program 5-year plan.
National geologic map database.
Biennial report.
Authorization of appropriations.
Report on resource research activities.
Biological research activity of Survey; review and report by National Academy of Sciences.
National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System.
Earth Mapping Resources Initiative.
Acting Director.
Repealed.
Scientific employees.
Repealed.
Purchase of books.
Acquisition of scientific or technical books, maps, etc., for library.
Acquisition of lands or interests therein for use in gaging streams or underground water
resources.
Acceptance of contributions from public and private sources; cooperation with other agencies in
prosecution of projects.
Cooperative agreements.
Omitted.
Topographic surveys; marking elevations.
Omitted.
Publications and reports; preparation and sale.
Distribution of maps and atlases, etc.
Use of receipts from sale of maps for map printing and distribution.
Copies to Senators, Representatives, and Delegates.
Sale of transfers or copies of data.
Production and sale of copies of photographs and records; disposition of receipts.
Omitted or Repealed.
Extension of cooperative work to Puerto Rico.
Survey's share of cost of topographic mapping or water resources investigations carried on with
States.
Funds for mappings and investigations considered intragovernmental funds.
Working capital fund for United States Geological Survey.
Recording of obligations against accounts receivable and crediting of amounts received; work
involving cooperation with State, Territory, etc.
Payment of costs incidental to utilization of services of volunteers.
Services of students or recent graduates.
USGS energy and minerals research facility.

§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.
(Mar. 3, 1879, ch. 182, 20 Stat. 394; Pub. L. 87–626, §§1, 2, Sept. 5, 1962, 76 Stat. 427; Pub. L. 93–608, §2(6), Jan. 2,
1975, 88 Stat. 1971; Pub. L. 102–154, title I, Nov. 13, 1991, 105 Stat. 1000; Pub. L. 104–66, title I, §1081(e), Dec. 21,
1995, 109 Stat. 721.)
Editorial Notes

Codification
Subsec. (a) of this section is from act Mar. 3, 1879. Subsecs. (b) and (c) of this section are sections 1
and 2, respectively, of Pub. L. 87–626.
Provisions of subsec. (a) of this section which limited the salary of the Director of the Geological Survey
to $6,000 a year were omitted as obsolete. See section 5316 of Title 5, Government Organization and
Employees.

Amendments
1995—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 104–66 struck out subsec. (c) which read as follows: "The Secretary of the
Interior shall report to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate on
January 31 of each year on all actions taken pursuant to subsection (b) of this section during the year
ending on the December 31 immediately preceding the reporting date and on the results of such actions."
1975—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 93–608 substituted requirement of an annual report for requirement of a
semiannual report.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
Pub. L. 102–285, §10(a), May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 171, provided that: "The Geological Survey established
by the Act of March 3, 1879 (43 U.S.C. 31(a)), is designated as and shall hereafter [on and after May 18,
1992] be known as the United States Geological Survey."
"United States Geological Survey" substituted for "Geological Survey" in subsecs. (a) and (b) pursuant
to provision of title I of Pub. L. 102–154, which provided: "That the Geological Survey (43 U.S.C. 31(a)) shall
hereafter [on and after Nov. 13, 1991] be designated the United States Geological Survey."

Continental Scientific Drilling and Exploration
Pub. L. 100–441, Sept. 22, 1988, 102 Stat. 1760, provided: "That this Act may be cited as the 'Continental
Scientific Drilling and Exploration Act'.

"SEC. 2. PURPOSES.
"The purpose of this Act is to—
"(1) 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;
"(2) 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;
"(3) advance basic earth sciences research and technological development;
"(4) obtain critical data regarding the earth's crust relating to isolation of hazardous wastes; and
"(5) develop a long-range plan for implementation of the Continental Scientific Drilling Program.
"SEC. 3. FINDINGS.
"Congress finds that—

"(1) 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;
"(2) there is a need for developing long-range plans for a United States Continental Scientific
Drilling Program; and
"(3) the Continental Scientific Drilling Program would enhance—
"(A) understanding of the crustal evolution of the earth and the mountain building processes;
"(B) understanding of the mechanisms of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and the
development of improved techniques for prediction;
"(C) understanding of the development and utilization of geothermal and other energy sources
and the formation of and occurrence of mineral deposits;
"(D) 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;
"(E) understanding and definition of the size, source, and more effective use of aquifers and
other water resources; and
"(F) 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—
"(1) taking such action as necessary to assure an effective, cooperative effort in furtherance of the
Continental Scientific Drilling Program of the United States;
"(2) 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;
"(3) assuring the continuing effective operation of the Interagency Coordinating Group to further
the objectives of such program;
"(4) 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;
"(5) 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
—
"(A) long and short-term policy objectives and goals of the United States Continental Scientific
Drilling Program;
"(B) projected schedules of desirable scientific and engineering events that would advance
United States objectives in the Continental Scientific Drilling Program;
"(C) 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);
"(D) the scientific, economic, technological, and social benefits expected to be realized
through the implementation of such program at each level described in subparagraph (C);
"(E) a recommended course for interaction with the international community in a cooperative
effort to achieve the goals and purposes of this Act;
"(F) the extent of participation or interest shown to date in the Continental Scientific Drilling
Program by—
"(i) any other governmental agency;
"(ii) any academic institution;
"(iii) any organization in the private sector; and
"(iv) any governmental or other entity in the international community;
"(G) 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
"(H) any other information or recommendations that the Interagency Coordinating Group
deems appropriate; and
"(6) 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)."

[For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of provisions of law requiring submittal to Congress of any
annual, semiannual, or other regular periodic report listed in House Document No. 103–7 (in which a
report required under section 4(6) of Pub. L. 100–441, set out above, is listed as the 10th item on page
149), see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, and section 1(a)(4) [div. A, §1402(1)] of Pub. L. 106–
554, set out as notes under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance.]
Pub. L. 98–473, title I, §101(c) [title III, §323], Oct. 12, 1984, 98 Stat. 1837, 1875, provided that: "It is the
sense of the Congress that the Continental Scientific Drilling Program is an important national scientific
endeavor, benefiting the commerce of the Nation, which should be vigorously pursued by Government
and the private sector. The Continental Scientific Drilling Program is an important national scientific
endeavor that is vital to the understanding of the geologic evolution of the Earth and the economic value
of its resources; the most effective and efficient means of realizing the fullest potential in the Continental
Scientific Drilling Program is through a cooperative effort by the Department of Energy, the National
Science Foundation, and the United States Geological Survey; many important commercial and scientific
advances may result from the Continental Scientific Drilling Program; and many foreign nations are
engaged in a comparable deep drilling program, and cooperation and coordination would be beneficial to
United States efforts. It is the sense of the Congress that—
"(1) the Continental Scientific Drilling Program is an important national scientific endeavor by the
United States which should be enthusiastically implemented through a joint cooperative effort among
the United States Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and the United States
Geological Survey;
"(2) the private sector should be encouraged to support the Continental Scientific Drilling Program
and the participating agencies should solicit appropriate private sector participation in such program;
and
"(3) the United States Government should cooperate to the extent practicable with the international
community in developing this important scientific and technical activity."
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions
For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§31a. Findings and purpose
(a) Findings
The Congress finds and declares that—
(1) 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;
(2) geologic maps are the primary data base for virtually all applied and basic earth-science investigations,
including—
(A) exploration for and development of mineral, energy, and water resources;
(B) screening and characterizing sites for toxic and nuclear waste disposal;
(C) land use evaluation and planning for homeland and environmental protection;
(D) earthquake hazards reduction;
(E) identifying volcanic hazards;
(F) design and construction of infrastructure requirements such as utility lifelines, transportation corridors, and
surface-water impoundments;
(G) reducing losses from landslides and other ground failures;
(H) mitigating effects of coastal and stream erosion;
(I) siting of critical facilities;
(J) recreation and public awareness; and
(K) basic earth-science research;
(3) 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;
(4) 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;
(5) States are willing to contribute 50 percent of the funding necessary to complete the mapping of the geology
within the State;
(6) the lack of proper geologic maps has led to the poor design of such structures as dams and waste-disposal
facilities;
(7) geologic maps have proven indispensable in the search for needed fossil-fuel and mineral resources;
(8) 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;
(9) 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
(10) 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.
(Pub. L. 102–285, §2, May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 166; Pub. L. 106–148, §2, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1719; Pub. L. 111–11,
title XI, §11001(a), (b), Mar. 30, 2009, 123 Stat. 1414.)
Editorial Notes

References in Text
Sections 31a to 31h of this title, referred to in subsec. (b), was in the original "this Act", meaning Pub. L.
102–285, known as the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992, which is classified principally to sections
31a to 31h of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note below and

Tables.

Amendments
2009—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(a)(1), added par. (1) and struck out former par. (1) which
read as follows: "during the past 2 decades, the production of geologic maps has been drastically
curtailed;".
Subsec. (a)(2)(C). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(a)(2)(A), inserted "homeland and" after "planning for".
Subsec. (a)(2)(E). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(a)(2)(B), substituted "identifying" for "predicting".
Subsec. (a)(2)(J), (K). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(a)(2)(C)–(E), added subpar. (J) and redesignated former
subpar. (J) as (K).
Subsec. (a)(9). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(a)(3), substituted "available" for "important".
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(b), inserted "and management" before period at end.
1999—Subsec. (a)(8) to (10). Pub. L. 106–148 added pars. (8) and (9) and redesignated former par. (8)
as (10) and inserted "of surficial and bedrock deposits" after "geologic mapping".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title of 1999 Amendment
Pub. L. 106–148, §1, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1719, provided that: "This Act [enacting sections 31e, 31g and
31h of this title, amending sections 31a to 31d and 31f of this title, and repealing former sections 31e, 31g, and
31h of this title] may be cited as the 'National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1999'."

Short Title of 1997 Amendment
Pub. L. 105–36, §1, Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 1107, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 31b to 31h of
this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under this section] may be cited as the 'National

Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1997'."

Short Title
Pub. L. 102–285, §1, May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 166, provided that: "This Act [enacting this section and
sections 31b to 31h of this title, amending sections 1457, 1457a, and 1782 of this title, sections 450ii–3, 665, 1133,
and 3151 of Title 16, Conservation, section 262k of Title 22, Foreign Relations and Intercourse, section 1677 of
Title 25, Indians, sections 1, 1a, 2, 3, 4, 4c, 4d, 5, 6, 7, 8, 411, 412, 804, 812, 871, 878, 1224, 1229, 1232, 1311,
1315, and 1604 of Title 30, Mineral Lands and Mining, and sections 5814 and 6505 of Title 42, The Public Health

and Welfare, enacting provisions set out as notes under section 31 of this title and section 1 of Title 30, and
amending provisions set out as a note under section 1231 of Title 30] may be cited as the 'National Geologic
Mapping Act of 1992'."

Findings
Pub. L. 105–36, §2, Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 1107, provided that: "Congress finds that—
"(1) in enacting the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31a et seq.), Congress found,

among other things, that—
"(A) during the 2 decades preceding enactment of that Act, the production of geologic maps
had been drastically curtailed;
"(B) geologic maps are the primary data base for virtually all applied and basic earth-science
investigations;
"(C) 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;
"(D) the lack of proper geologic maps has led to the poor design of such structures as dams
and waste-disposal facilities;
"(E) geologic maps have proven indispensable in the search for needed fossil fuel and mineral
resources; and
"(F) a comprehensive nationwide program of geologic mapping is required in order to
systematically build the Nation's geologic-map data base at a pace that responds to increasing
demand;
"(2) the geologic mapping program called for by that Act has not been fully implemented; and
"(3) it is time for this important program to be fully implemented."

§31b. Definitions
In sections 31a to 31h of this title:
(1) Advisory committee
The term "advisory committee" means the advisory committee established under section 31d of this title.
(2) Association
The term "Association" means the Association of American State Geologists.
(3) Director
The term "Director" means the Director of the United States Geological Survey.
(4) Education component
The term "education component" means the education component of the geologic mapping program described in
section 31c(d)(3) of this title.
(5) Federal component
The term "Federal component" means the Federal component of the geologic mapping program described in
section 31c(d)(1) of this title.
(6) Geologic mapping program
The term "geologic mapping program" means the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program established by
section 31c(a) of this title.
(7) Secretary
The term "Secretary" means the Secretary of the Interior.
(8) State
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.
(9) State component
The term "State component" means the State component of the geologic mapping program described in section
31c(d)(2) of this title.
(10) Survey
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.)
Editorial Notes

References in Text
Sections 31a to 31h of this title, referred to in text, was in the original "this Act", meaning Pub. L. 102–285,
known as the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992, which is classified principally to sections 31a to 31h
of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 31a
of this title and Tables.

Amendments
2019—Par. (4). Pub. L. 116–9, §5002(c)(1), substituted "section 31c(d)(3)" for "section 31e(d)(3)".
Par. (5). Pub. L. 116–9, §5002(c)(2), substituted "section 31c(d)(1)" for "section 31e(d)(1)".
Par. (9). Pub. L. 116–9, §5002(c)(3), substituted "section 31c(d)(2)" for "section 31e(d)(2)".
1999—Pars. (4) to (10). Pub. L. 106–148 added pars. (4), (5), and (9) and redesignated former pars. (4),

(5), (6), and (7) as (6), (7), (8), and (10), respectively.
1997—Pub. L. 105–36, §3(a)(1), substituted "In sections 31a to 31h of this title:" for "As used in sections 31a
to 31h of this title:" in introductory provisions.
Par. (1). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(a)(5), inserted heading.
Par. (2). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(a)(2), (3), added par. (2). Former par. (2) redesignated (3).
Pars. (3) to (5). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(a)(2), (5), redesignated pars. (2) to (4) as (3) to (5), respectively, and
inserted headings. Par. (5) redesignated (7).
Par. (6). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(a)(4), added par. (6).
Par. (7). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(a)(2), (5), redesignated par. (5) as (7) and inserted heading.

§31c. Geologic mapping program
(a) Establishment
(1) In general
There is established a national cooperative geologic mapping program between the United States Geological
Survey and the State geological surveys, acting through the Association.
(2) Design, development, and administration
The cooperative geologic mapping program shall be—
(A) designed and administered to achieve the objectives set forth in subsection (c);
(B) developed in consultation with the advisory committee; and
(C) administered through the Survey.
(b) Responsibilities of the Survey
(1) Lead agency
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—
(A) 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;
(B) 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
(C) 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—
(i) how the Survey and the Association are coordinating the development and implementation of the geologic
mapping program;
(ii) how the Survey and the Association establish goals, mapping priorities, and target dates for
implementation of the geologic mapping program; and
(iii) how long-term staffing plans for the various components of the geologic mapping program affect
successful implementation of the geologic mapping program.
(2) Responsibilities of the Secretary
In addition to paragraph (1), the Secretary, acting through the Director, shall be responsible for developing, as
soon as practicable—

(A) in cooperation with the Association, other Federal and State agencies, public and private sector
organizations and academia, the geologic-map data base; and
(B) maps and mapping techniques which achieve the objectives specified in subsection (c).
(c) Program objectives
The objectives of the geologic mapping program shall include—
(1) 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;
(2) development of a complementary national geochronologic and paleontologic data base that provides valueadded descriptive and interpretative information to the geologic-map data base;
(3) application of cost-effective mapping techniques that assemble, produce, translate and disseminate geologicmap information and that render such information of greater application and benefit to the public; and
(4) 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
(1) Federal component
(A) In general
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.
(B) Mapping priorities
For the Federal component, mapping priorities—
(i) shall be described in the 5-year plan under section 31e of this title; and
(ii) shall be based on—
(I) national requirements for geologic map information in areas of multiple-issue need or areas of compelling
single-issue need;
(II) national requirements for geologic map information in areas where mapping is required to solve critical
earth science problems; and
(III) the needs of land management agencies of the Department of the Interior.
(C) Interdisciplinary studies
(i) In general
The Federal component shall include interdisciplinary studies that add value to geologic mapping.
(ii) Representative categories
Interdisciplinary studies under clause (i) may include—
(I) establishment of a national geologic map database under section 31f of this title;
(II) studies that lead to the implementation of cost-effective digital methods for the acquisition, compilation,
analysis, cartographic production, and dissemination of geologic map information;
(III) paleontologic, geochrono-logic, and isotopic investigations that provide information critical to
understanding the age and history of geologic map units;
(IV) geophysical investigations that assist in delineating and mapping the physical characteristics and 3dimensional distribution of geologic materials and geologic structures; and
(V) geochemical investigations and analytical operations that characterize the composition of geologic map
units.
(iii) Use of results
The results of investigations under clause (ii) shall be contributed to national databases.
(2) State component
(A) In general
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.
(B) Mapping priorities
For the State component, mapping priorities—
(i) shall be determined by State panels representing a broad range of users of geologic maps; and
(ii) shall be based on—
(I) State requirements for geologic map information in areas of multiple-issue need or areas of compelling
single-issue need; and
(II) State requirements for geologic map information in areas where mapping is required to solve critical
earth science problems.

(C) Integration of Federal and State priorities
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).
(D) Use of funds
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.
(E) Federal share
The Federal share of the cost of activities under the State component for any fiscal year shall not exceed 50
percent.
(3) Education component
(A) In general
The geologic mapping program shall include a geologic mapping education component for the training of
geologic mappers, the objectives of which shall be—
(i) to provide for broad education in geologic mapping and field analysis through support of field studies; and
(ii) to develop academic programs that teach students of earth science the fundamental principles of geologic
mapping and field analysis.
(B) Investigations
The education component may include the conduct of investigations, which—
(i) shall be integrated with the Federal component and the State component; and
(ii) shall respond to mapping priorities identified for the Federal component and the State component.
(C) Use of funds
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.
(D) Federal share
The Federal share of the cost of activities under the education component for any fiscal year shall not exceed 50
percent.
(4) Abandoned mine land and mine waste component
(A) In general
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.
(B) Mapping priorities
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.
(Pub. L. 102–285, §4, May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 167; Pub. L. 103–437, §16(a)(1), Nov. 2, 1994, 108 Stat. 4594; Pub. L.
105–36, §3(b), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 106–148, §4, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1720; Pub. L. 111–11, title
XI, §11001(c)–(e), Mar. 30, 2009, 123 Stat. 1414, 1415; Pub. L. 116–9, title V, §5002(a)(2), Mar. 12, 2019, 133 Stat.
768; Pub. L. 117–58, div. D, title II, §40202(a), Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 959.)
Editorial Notes

Amendments
2021—Subsec. (d)(4). Pub. L. 117–58 added par. (4).
2019—Subsec. (b)(1)(A), (B). Pub. L. 116–9 substituted "March 12, 2019" for "March 30, 2009".
2009—Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(c)(1), substituted "not later than 1 year after March 30,

2009;" for "not later than 1 year after December 9, 1999;".
Subsec. (b)(1)(B). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(c)(2), substituted "not later than 1 year after March 30, 2009,
in accordance" for "not later than 1 year after December 9, 1999, in accordance".
Subsec. (b)(1)(C). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(c)(3), substituted "submit biennially" for "not later than 3 years
after December 9, 1999, and biennially thereafter, submit" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(d), struck out "geophysical-map data base, geochemical-map
data base, and a" after "national" and substituted "provides" for "provide".
Subsec. (d)(1)(B)(ii)(III). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(e), added subcl. (III).

1999—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 106–148, §4(1)(A), substituted "national priorities and standards for" for
"priorities" in first sentence.
Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 106–148, §4(1)(B), substituted "develop a 5-year strategic plan for the
geologic mapping program" for "develop a geologic mapping program implementation plan" and "not later
than 1 year after December 9, 1999" for "within 300 days after August 5, 1997".
Subsec. (b)(1)(B). Pub. L. 106–148, §4(1)(C), substituted "not later than 1 year after December 9, 1999,"
for "within 90 days after August 5, 1997,".
Subsec. (b)(1)(C). Pub. L. 106–148, §4(1)(D)(i), substituted "not later than 3 years after December 9,
1999, and biennially thereafter" for "within 210 days after August 5, 1997" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (b)(1)(C)(i). Pub. L. 106–148, §4(1)(D)(ii), substituted "are coordinating" for "will coordinate".
Subsec. (b)(1)(C)(ii). Pub. L. 106–148, §4(1)(D)(iii), substituted "establish" for "will establish".
Subsec. (b)(1)(C)(iii). Pub. L. 106–148, §4(1)(D)(iv), substituted "affect" for "will lead to".
Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 106–148, §4(2), added subsec. (d) and struck out former subsec. (d) which set out
the Federal, support, State, and education components of the geological mapping program.
1997—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(1), added subsec. (a) and struck out heading and text of
former subsec. (a). Text read as follows: "There is established in the United States Geological Survey a
National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program. The geologic mapping program shall be developed in
consultation with the advisory committee and shall be designed and administered to achieve the
objectives set forth in subsection (c) of this section."
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(A), (D), substituted "the Survey" for "USGS" in heading and
realigned text margins.
Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(B)(i), (ii), inserted heading and realigned margins.
Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(B)(iii), substituted "Committee on Resources" for "Committee
on Natural Resources" and "August 5, 1997" for "May 18, 1992".
Subsec. (b)(1)(B). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(B)(iv), substituted "Association" for "State geological
surveys" and "August 5, 1997" for "May 18, 1992".
Subsec. (b)(1)(C). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(B)(v)(I), (II), in introductory provisions, substituted "August 5,
1997" for "May 18, 1992" and "Committee on Resources" for "Committee on Natural Resources".
Subsec. (b)(1)(C)(i). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(B)(v)(III), inserted "and the Association" after "the Survey".
Subsec. (b)(1)(C)(ii). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(B)(v)(III), (IV), inserted "and the Association" after "the
Survey" and "and" after semicolon at end.
Subsec. (b)(1)(C)(iii), (iv). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(B)(v)(V), substituted period for "; and" at end of cl. (iii)
and struck out cl. (iv) which read as follows: "the degree to which geologic mapping activities traditionally
funded by the Survey, including the use of commercially available aerial photography, geodesy,
professional land surveying, photogrammetric mapping, cartography, photographic processing, and
related services, can be contracted to professional private mapping firms."
Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(C)(i), inserted heading.
Subsec. (b)(2)(A). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(2)(C)(ii), substituted "Association" for "State geological
surveys".
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(3)(A), substituted "interpretative information" for "interpretive
information".
Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(3)(B), substituted "public awareness of" for "public awareness for".
Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(4)(A), inserted heading.
Subsec. (d)(2). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(4)(B)(i), inserted heading.
Subsec. (d)(2)(D). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(4)(B)(ii), added subpar. (D) and struck out former subpar. (D)
which read as follows: "geochronologic and isotopic investigations that (i) provide radiometric age dates
for geologic-map units and (ii) fingerprint the geothermometry, geobarometry, and alteration history of
geologic-map units, which investigations shall be contributed to a national geochronologic data base;".
Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(4)(C), inserted heading.
Subsec. (d)(4). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(b)(4)(D), added par. (4) and struck out former par. (4) which read as
follows: "A geologic mapping education component, whose objective shall be—
"(A) to develop the academic programs that teach earth-science students the fundamental
principles of geologic mapping and field analysis; and
"(B) to provide for broad education in geologic mapping and field analysis through support of field
teaching institutes.
Investigations conducted under the geologic mapping education component shall be integrated with the
other mapping components of the geologic mapping program, and shall respond to priorities identified for
those components."
1994—Subsec. (b)(1)(A), (C). Pub. L. 103–437 substituted "Natural Resources" for "Interior and Insular
Affairs" before "of the House".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
Committee on Resources of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Natural Resources of
House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007.

Wage Rate Requirements
For provisions relating to rates of wages to be paid to laborers and mechanics on projects for
construction, alteration, or repair work funded under div. D or an amendment by div. D of Pub. L. 117–58,
including authority of Secretary of Labor, see section 18851 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare.

§31d. Advisory committee
(a) Establishment
(1) In general
There shall be established a 11-member geologic mapping advisory committee to advise the Director on planning
and implementation of the geologic mapping program.
(2) Members ex officio
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.
(3) Appointed members
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—
(1) review and update the 5-year plan prepared by the Director pursuant to section 31e of this title;
(2) review the scientific progress of the geologic mapping program;
(3) 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
(4) 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.
(Pub. L. 102–285, §5, May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 169; Pub. L. 105–36, §3(c), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 1110; Pub. L. 106–
148, §5, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1722; Pub. L. 111–11, title XI, §11001(f), Mar. 30, 2009, 123 Stat. 1415; Pub. L. 116–9,
title V, §5002(b), Mar. 12, 2019, 133 Stat. 768.)
Editorial Notes

Amendments
2019—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 116–9 substituted "Associate Director for Core Science Systems" for
"Associate Director for Geology".
2009—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(f)(3), substituted "11-member" for "10-member".
Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(f)(1)(A), inserted "the Secretary of the Interior or a designee from
a land management agency of the Department of the Interior," after "Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency or a designee,", inserted "and" after "Energy or a designee,", and struck out ", and the
Assistant to the President for Science and Technology or a designee" before period at end.
Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(f)(1)(B), substituted "In consultation" for "Not later than 1 year
after December 9, 1999, in consultation", "Associate Director for Geology, as Chair" for "Chief Geologist,
as Chairman", and "2 representatives from the private sector" for "one representative from the private
sector".
Subsec. (b)(3), (4). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(f)(2), added par. (3) and redesignated former par. (3) as (4).
1999—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 106–148, §5(1), substituted "1 year after December 9, 1999," for "90 days
after August 5, 1997,".
Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 106–148, §5(2)(A), substituted "update the 5-year plan" for "critique the draft
implementation plan".

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 106–148, §5(2)(B), substituted "sections 31c through 31f of this title" for "sections 31a
to 31h of this title".
1997—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(c)(1), added subsec. (a) and struck out heading and text of

former subsec. (a). Text read as follows: "There shall be established a sixteen member geologic mapping
advisory committee to advise the Director on planning and implementation of the geologic mapping
program. The President shall appoint one representative each from the Environmental Protection Agency,
the Department of Energy, the Department of Agriculture, and the Office of Science and Technology
Policy. Within 90 days and with the advice and consultation of the State Geological Surveys, the
Secretary shall appoint to the advisory committee 2 representatives from the Survey (including the Chief
Geologist, as Chairman), 4 representatives from the State geological surveys, 3 representatives from
academia, and 3 representatives from the private sector."
Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 105–36, §3(c)(2), substituted "Federal, State, and university mapping activities"
for "Federal and State mapping activities".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Termination of Advisory Committees
Advisory committees established after Jan. 5, 1973, to terminate not later than the expiration of the 2year period beginning on the date of their establishment, unless, in the case of a committee established
by the President or an officer of the Federal Government, such committee is renewed by appropriate
action prior to the expiration of such 2-year period, or in the case of a committee established by
Congress, its duration is otherwise provided by law, see section 14 of Pub. L. 92–463, Oct. 6, 1972, 86 Stat.
776, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

§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 5year plan for the geologic mapping program.
(b) Requirements
The 5-year plan shall identify—
(1) overall priorities for the geologic mapping program; and
(2) implementation of the overall management structure and operation of the geologic mapping program, including
—
(A) 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;
(B) 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;
(C) mechanisms for identifying short- and long-term priorities for each component of the geologic mapping
program, including—
(i) for the Federal component, a priority-setting mechanism that responds to—
(I) Federal mission requirements for geologic map information;
(II) critical scientific problems that require geologic maps for their resolution; and
(III) shared Federal and State needs for geologic maps, in which joint Federal-State geologic mapping
projects are in the national interest;
(ii) for the State component, a priority-setting mechanism that responds to—
(I) specific intrastate needs for geologic map information; and
(II) interstate needs shared by adjacent States that have common requirements; and
(iii) 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;
(D) a mechanism for adopting scientific and technical mapping standards for preparing and publishing generaland special-purpose geologic maps to—
(i) ensure uniformity of cartographic and scientific conventions; and
(ii) provide a basis for assessing the comparability and quality of map products; and

(E) a mechanism for monitoring the inventory of published and current mapping investigations nationwide to
facilitate planning and information exchange and to avoid redundancy.
(Pub. L. 102–285, §6, as added Pub. L. 106–148, §6, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1722.)
Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions
A prior section 31e, Pub. L. 102–285, §6, May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 170; Pub. L. 105–36, §3(d), Aug. 5, 1997,
111 Stat. 1110, provided for the preparation of a geologic mapping program implementation plan, prior to
repeal by Pub. L. 106–148, §6, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1722.

§31f. National geologic map database
(a) Establishment
(1) In general
The Survey shall establish a national geologic-map database.
(2) Function
The database shall serve as a national catalog and archive, distributed through links to Federal and State geologic
map holdings, that includes—
(A) all maps developed with funding provided by the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, including
under the Federal, State, and education components;
(B) the databases developed in connection with investigations under subclauses (III), (IV), and (V) of section
31c(d)(1)(C)(ii) of this title; and
(C) other maps and data that the Survey and the Association consider appropriate.
(b) Standardization
(1) In general
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.
(2) Development of standards
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.
(Pub. L. 102–285, §7, May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 171; Pub. L. 105–36, §3(e), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 1110; Pub. L. 106–
148, §7, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1723; Pub. L. 111–11, title XI, §11001(g), Mar. 30, 2009, 123 Stat. 1415.)
Editorial Notes

References in Text
Executive Order 12906, referred to in subsec. (b)(1), is set out as a note under section 1457 of this title.

Amendments
2009—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(g)(1), substituted "geologic-map" for "geologic map".
Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(g)(2), added subpar. (A) and struck out former subpar. (A)

which read as follows: "all maps developed under the Federal component and the education
component;".
1999—Pub. L. 106–148 substituted "geologic map database" for "geologic-map data base" in section
catchline, added subsec. (a), and struck out heading and text of former subsec. (a). Text read as follows:
"The Survey shall establish a national geologic-map data base. Such data base shall be a national
archive that includes all maps developed pursuant to sections 31a to 31h of this title, the data bases
developed pursuant to the investigations under sections 31c(d)(2)(C), (D), (E), and (F) of this title, and
other maps and data as the Survey deems appropriate."
1997—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–36 added subsec. (b) and struck out heading and text of former subsec.
(b). Text read as follows: "Geologic maps contributed to the national archives should have standardized

format, symbols, and technical attributes so that archival information can be assimilated, manipulated,
accessed, exchanged, and compared efficiently and accurately."

§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—
(1) describes the status of the national geologic mapping program;
(2) describes and evaluates the progress achieved during the preceding 2 years in developing the national
geologic map database; and
(3) 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.)
Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions
A prior section 31g, Pub. L. 102–285, §8, May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 171; Pub. L. 103–437, §16(a)(1), Nov. 2,
1994, 108 Stat. 4594; Pub. L. 105–36, §3(f), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 1111; Pub. L. 105–362, title IX, §902(b),
Nov. 10, 1998, 112 Stat. 3291, directed the Secretary to submit a biennial report to Congress describing the
status of the nationwide geologic mapping program and evaluating the progress achieved during the
preceding fiscal year in developing the national geologic-map data base, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 106–
148, §8, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1724.

Amendments
2009—Pub. L. 111–11 substituted "Not later than 3 years after March 30, 2009, and biennially" for "Not
later 3 years after December 9, 1999, and biennially".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
Committee on Resources of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Natural Resources of
House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007.

§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—
(1) 50 percent shall be available for the State component; and
(2) 4 percent shall be available for the education component.
(Pub. L. 102–285, §9, as added Pub. L. 106–148, §9, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1724; amended Pub. L. 111–11, title XI,
§11001(i), Mar. 30, 2009, 123 Stat. 1416; Pub. L. 116–9, title V, §5002(a)(1), Mar. 12, 2019, 133 Stat. 768; Pub. L. 117–
58, div. D, title II, §40202(b), Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 959.)
Editorial Notes

References in Text
Sections 31a to 31h of this title, referred to in subsec. (a), was in the original "this Act", meaning Pub. L.
102–285, known as the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992, which is classified principally to sections
31a to 31h of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under
section 31a of this title and Tables.

Prior Provisions
A prior section 31h, Pub. L. 102–285, §9, May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 171; Pub. L. 105–36, §3(g), Aug. 5, 1997,
111 Stat. 1111, authorized appropriations for the national cooperative geologic mapping program, prior to
repeal by Pub. L. 106–148, §9, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1724.

Amendments
2021—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 117–58 substituted "2031" for "2023".
2019—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–9 substituted "2023" for "2018".
2009—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(i)(1), added subsec. (a) and struck out former subsec. (a)
which appropriated funds to carry out sections 31a to 31h of this title for fiscal years 1999 to 2005.
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(i)(2)(A), substituted "2005" for "2000" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(i)(2)(B), substituted "50" for "48".
Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 111–11, §11001(i)(2)(C), which directed amendment of par. (2) "by striking 2 and

inserting '4' ", was executed by substituting "4" for "2", to reflect the probable intent of Congress.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Wage Rate Requirements
For provisions relating to rates of wages to be paid to laborers and mechanics on projects for
construction, alteration, or repair work funded under div. D or an amendment by div. D of Pub. L. 117–58,
including authority of Secretary of Labor, see section 18851 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare.

§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:
(1) Secretary
The term "Secretary" means the Secretary, acting through the Director of the United States Geological Survey.
(2) Secretary of Commerce
The term "Secretary of Commerce" means the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Under Secretary of
Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere.
(3) System
The term "System" means the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System established under
subsection (b)(1)(A).
(4) Volcanic Ash Advisory Center
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
(1) Establishment

(A) In general
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.
(B) Purposes
The purposes of the System are—
(i) 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;
(ii) to unify the monitoring systems of volcano observatories in the United States into a single interoperative
system; and
(iii) 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.
(C) Objective
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—
(i) upgrading existing networks on monitored volcanoes;
(ii) installing new networks on unmonitored volcanoes; and
(iii) employing geodetic and other components when applicable.
(2) System components
(A) In general
The System shall include—
(i) a national volcano watch office that is operational 24 hours a day and 7 days a week;
(ii) a national volcano data center; and
(iii) an external grants program to support research in volcano monitoring science and technology.
(B) Modernization activities
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.
(C) Memorandum of understanding
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.
(3) Management
(A) Management plan
(i) In general
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.
(ii) Inclusions
The management plan submitted under clause (i) shall include—
(I) annual cost estimates for modernization activities and operation of the System;
(II) annual milestones, standards, and performance goals; and
(III) recommendations for, and progress towards, establishing new, or enhancing existing, partnerships to
leverage resources.
(iii) Update
(I) National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration cost estimates
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.
(II) Update of management plan
The Secretary shall update the management plan submitted under clause (i) to include the cost estimates
submitted under subclause (I).

(B) Advisory committee
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.
(C) Partnerships
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.
(D) Coordination
The Secretary shall coordinate the activities under this section with the heads of relevant Federal agencies,
including—
(i) the Secretary of Transportation;
(ii) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration;
(iii) the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; and
(iv) the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
(E) Collaboration
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.
(4) Annual report
Annually, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report that describes the activities carried out under this
section.
(c) Funding
(1) Authorization of appropriations, United States Geological Survey
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.
(2) Authorization of appropriations, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
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.
(3) Effect on other sources of Federal funding
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.
(Pub. L. 116–9, title V, §5001, Mar. 12, 2019, 133 Stat. 766; Pub. L. 117–263, div. J, title CV, §10501(a)–(e), Dec. 23,
2022, 136 Stat. 3993,3994.)
Editorial Notes

Amendments
2022—Subsec. (a)(2) to (4). Pub. L. 117–263, §10501(a), added pars. (2) and (4) and redesignated
former par. (2) as (3).
Subsec. (b)(1)(B)(iii). Pub. L. 117–263, §10501(b), added cl. (iii).
Subsec. (b)(2)(B). Pub. L. 117–263, §10501(c)(1), struck out "and" before "spectrometry" and inserted
", and unoccupied aerial vehicles" after "emissions".
Subsec. (b)(2)(C). Pub. L. 117–263, §10501(c)(2), added subpar. (C).
Subsec. (b)(3)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 117–263, §10501(d)(1), added cl. (iii).
Subsec. (b)(3)(E). Pub. L. 117–263, §10501(d)(2), added subpar. (E).
Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 117–263, §10501(e)(1), inserted ", United States Geological Survey" after
"appropriations" in heading and "to the United States Geological Survey" after "appropriated" in text.
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 117–263, §10501(e)(3), added par. (2). Former par. (2) redesignated (3).
Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 117–263, §10501(e)(2), (4), redesignated par. (2) as (3), struck out "United States
Geological Survey" before "hazards activities", and inserted "of the United States Geological Survey and
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration" after "programs".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Definition of "Secretary"
Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior, see section 2 of Pub. L. 116–9, set out as a note under
section 1 of this title.

§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—
(1) providing integrated topographic, geologic, geochemical, and geophysical mapping;
(2) accelerating the integration and consolidation of geospatial and resource data; and
(3) providing interpretation of subsurface and above-ground mineral resources data.
(d) Cooperative agreements
(1) In general
In carrying out the Initiative, the Director of the United States Geological Survey may enter into cooperative
agreements with State geological surveys.
(2) Effect
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
(1) In general
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.
(2) Approach
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.
(3) Priority
In carrying out paragraph (1) with regard to minerals, mineralization, and mineral deposits, the Initiative shall
prioritize mapping and assessing critical minerals.
(4) Inclusions
In carrying out paragraph (1), the Initiative shall also—
(A) map and collect data for areas containing mine waste to increase understanding of above-ground critical
mineral resources in previously disturbed areas; and
(B) 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—
(1) the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program established by section 31c(a)(1) of this title;
(2) the National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program established under section 15908(b) of
title 42;
(3) the USMIN Mineral Deposit Database of the United States Geological Survey;
(4) the 3D Elevation Program established under section 3104(a) of this title; and
(5) 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.
(Pub. L. 117–58, div. D, title II, §40201, Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 958.)
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Wage Rate Requirements
For provisions relating to rates of wages to be paid to laborers and mechanics on projects for
construction, alteration, or repair work funded under div. D or an amendment by div. D of Pub. L. 117–58,
including authority of Secretary of Labor, see section 18851 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare.

Definition of "Secretary"
For definition of Secretary as used in this section, see section 18701 of Title 42, The Public Health and
Welfare.

§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.)
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions
For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§33. Repealed. Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, §53, 70A Stat. 641
Section, act June 16, 1880, ch. 235, 21 Stat. 274, authorized Secretary of War to detail officers of
Ordnance Corps to serve with Geological Survey.

§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.)
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§35. Repealed. Pub. L. 87–304, §9(a)(2), Sept. 26, 1961, 75 Stat. 664
Section, act June 30, 1906, ch. 3914, §1, 34 Stat. 727, authorized scientific and other employees of the
United States Geological Survey employed in the field to make assignments of pay, and that they be
reimbursed for expenses incurred in the discharge of duty in the field and paid from personal funds. See
section 5525 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

§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.)
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions
For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§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.)
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions
For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§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-ofway, 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.)
Editorial Notes

Amendments
1960—Pub. L. 86–406 authorized Secretary of the Interior to acquire lands and interests in lands for
observation well sites to gage underground water resources.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.

§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.)
Editorial Notes

Codification
Pub. L. 99–591 is a corrected version of Pub. L. 99–500.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.

§36d. Cooperative agreements
Notwithstanding the provisions of the Federal Grant and Cooperative Agreement Act of 1977 (31 U.S.C. 6301–6308),
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.)
Editorial Notes

References in Text
The Federal Grant and Cooperative Agreement Act of 1977, referred to in text, is Pub. L. 95–224, Feb. 3,
1978, 92 Stat. 3, which was classified generally to chapter 8 (§501 et seq.) of former Title 41, Public

Contracts, and was repealed and reenacted as chapter 63 (§6301 et seq.) of Title 31, Money and Finance, by
Pub. L. 97–258, §§1, 5(b), Sept. 13, 1982, 96 Stat. 877, 1068.
Appropriations herein, referred to in text, probably means appropriations under the headings "United
States Geological Survey", "surveys, investigations, and research" and "administrative provisions", of the
annual Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Similar Provisions
Provisions similar to those in this section were contained in the following appropriation act:
Pub. L. 108–7, div. F, title I, Feb. 20, 2003, 117 Stat. 228.

§37. Omitted
Editorial Notes

Codification
Section, act June 12, 1917, ch. 27, 40 Stat. 144, related to purchases or services for the Geological
Survey, was omitted as superseded.

§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
Editorial Notes

Codification
Section 39, act Feb. 27, 1925, ch. 360, §1, 43 Stat. 1011, authorized the President to complete a general
utility topographical survey of the territory of the United States within a period of twenty years from Feb.
27, 1925.
Section 40, act Feb. 27, 1925, ch. 360, §2, 43 Stat. 1011, related to cooperative agreements with States
to expedite completion of topographical survey.

§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.)

Editorial Notes

Codification
"Section 1318 of title 44" substituted in text for "section 260 of title 44" on authority of Pub. L. 90–620, §2(b),
Oct. 22, 1968, 82 Stat. 1238, the first section of which enacted Title 44, Public Printing and Documents.
The words "Except as otherwise provided in section 260 of title 44" were originally inserted in text to avoid
conflict with the provisions of such section 260 of title 44, as set out prior to the general revision of title 44
by Pub. L. 90–620, derived from Joint Res. May 16, 1902, No. 22.

Amendments
1946—Act Aug. 7, 1946, repealed all provisions requiring preparation, and transmission by Secretary of

the Interior, of an annual report of operations.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions
For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§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.)
Editorial Notes

Codification
The first sentence is from Joint Res. Feb. 18, 1897; the second sentence is from act June 7, 1924.
Joint Res. Feb. 18, 1897 superseded a provision contained in act June 11, 1896, ch. 420, 29 Stat. 436,
authorizing the sale of topographical maps with text at cost and ten per centum added.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§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.)
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.

§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.)
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions
For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§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.)
Editorial Notes

Amendments
1947—Act July 21, 1947, authorized production and sale of aerial or other photographs and
reproductions of records on a reimbursement of appropriations basis.
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions
For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§46. Omitted
Editorial Notes

Codification
Section, act Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 680, title I, 63 Stat. 785, related to exchange of old freight carrying
vehicles as part payment for new, was from the Interior Department Appropriation Act, 1950, and was not
repeated in subsequent appropriation acts. Similar provisions were contained in the following prior
appropriation acts:
June 29, 1948, ch. 754, 62 Stat. 1133.
July 25, 1947, ch. 337, 61 Stat. 477.
July 1, 1946, ch. 529, 60 Stat. 369.
July 3, 1945, ch. 262, 59 Stat. 343.
June 28, 1944, ch. 298, 58 Stat. 491.
July 12, 1943, ch. 219, 57 Stat. 477.
July 2, 1942, ch. 473, 56 Stat. 537.
June 28, 1941, ch. 259, 55 Stat. 339.
June 18, 1940, ch. 395, 54 Stat. 439.
May 10, 1939, ch. 119, 53 Stat. 719.
May 9, 1938, ch. 187, 52 Stat. 325.
Aug. 9, 1937, ch. 570, 50 Stat. 598.
June 22, 1936, ch. 691, 49 Stat. 1785.
May 9, 1935, ch. 101, 49 Stat. 200.
Mar. 2, 1934, ch. 38, 48 Stat. 382.
Feb. 17, 1933, ch. 98, 47 Stat. 846.
Apr. 22, 1932, ch. 125, 47 Stat. 118.
Feb. 14, 1931, ch. 187, 46 Stat. 1147.
May 14, 1930, ch. 273, 46 Stat. 310.
Mar. 4, 1929, ch. 705, 45 Stat. 1594.
Mar. 7, 1928, ch. 137, 45 Stat. 231.
Jan. 12, 1927, ch. 27, 44 Stat. 961.
May 10, 1926, ch. 277, 44 Stat. 486.
Mar. 3, 1925, ch. 462, 43 Stat. 1172.
June 5, 1924, ch. 264, 43 Stat. 419.
Jan. 24, 1923, ch. 42, 42 Stat. 1208.
May 24, 1922, ch. 199, 42 Stat. 586.

§47. Repealed. Aug. 7, 1946, ch. 770, §1(11), 60 Stat. 867

Section, act May 10, 1926, ch. 277, 44 Stat. 487, required annual statements and reports of
expenditures for the benefit of Indians relating to the operation of oil and gas leases, and the mining of
other minerals, on Indian lands.

§48. Omitted
Editorial Notes

Codification
Section, act Jan. 12, 1927, ch. 27, 44 Stat. 963, required amounts received by the Geological Survey
from any State, Territory or political subdivision thereof in carrying on work involving cooperation to be
used in reimbursing the appropriation from which the expense of such work was paid, was from the act
making appropriations for the Department of the Interior for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1928 and for
other purposes, and was not repeated in subsequent appropriation acts. Similar provisions were
contained in the following act: May 10, 1926, ch. 277, 44 Stat. 487.

§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.)
Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions
For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with
certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950,
§§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out under section 1451 of this title.

§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. 117–328, div. G, title I, Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 4768.)
Editorial Notes

Codification
Section text is based on act July 31, 1953, ch. 298, title I, §1, 67 Stat. 269, as continued and modified for
the fiscal year covered by the appropriation act cited as the credit to this section.

Prior Provisions
Provisions similar to those in this section were contained in the following prior appropriation acts:
Pub. L. 117–103, div. G, title I, Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 356.
Pub. L. 116–260, div. G, title I, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 1486.
Pub. L. 116–94, div. D, title I, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 2695.
Pub. L. 116–6, div. E, title I, Feb. 15, 2019, 133 Stat. 214.
Pub. L. 115–141, div. G, title I, Mar. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 643.
Pub. L. 115–31, div. G, title I, May 5, 2017, 131 Stat. 444.
Pub. L. 114–113, div. G, title I, Dec. 18, 2015, 129 Stat. 2534.
Pub. L. 113–235, div. F, title I, Dec. 16, 2014, 128 Stat. 2404.
Pub. L. 113–76, div. G, title I, Jan. 17, 2014, 128 Stat. 296.

Pub. L. 112–74, div. E, title I, Dec. 23, 2011, 125 Stat. 993.
Pub. L. 111–88, div. A, title I, Oct. 30, 2009, 123 Stat. 2913.
Pub. L. 111–8, div. E, title I, Mar. 11, 2009, 123 Stat. 710.
Pub. L. 110–161, div. F, title I, Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2108.
Pub. L. 109–54, title I, Aug. 2, 2005, 119 Stat. 510.
Pub. L. 108–447, div. E, title I, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3052.
Pub. L. 108–108, title I, Nov. 10, 2003, 117 Stat. 1254.
Pub. L. 108–7, div. F, title I, Feb. 20, 2003, 117 Stat. 228.
Pub. L. 107–63, title I, Nov. 5, 2001, 115 Stat. 427.
Pub. L. 106–291, title I, Oct. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 931.
Pub. L. 106–113, div. B, §1000(a)(3) [title I], Nov. 29, 1999, 113 Stat. 1535, 1501A-145.
Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, §101(e) [title I], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–231, 2681-242.
Pub. L. 105–83, title I, Nov. 14, 1997, 111 Stat. 1552.
Pub. L. 104–208, div. A, title I, §101(d) [title I], Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009–181, 3009-190.
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.
Pub. L. 103–332, title I, Sept. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 2507.
Pub. L. 103–138, title I, Nov. 11, 1993, 107 Stat. 1387.
Pub. L. 102–381, title I, Oct. 5, 1992, 106 Stat. 1384.
Pub. L. 102–154, title I, Nov. 13, 1991, 105 Stat. 1000.
Pub. L. 101–512, title I, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1924.
Pub. L. 101–121, title I, Oct. 23, 1989, 103 Stat. 710.
Pub. L. 100–446, title I, Sept. 27, 1988, 102 Stat. 1790.
Pub. L. 100–202, §101(g) [title I], Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1329–213, 1329-224.
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. 99–190, §101(d) [title I], Dec. 19, 1985, 99 Stat. 1224, 1231.
Pub. L. 98–473, title I, §101(c) [title I], Oct. 12, 1984, 98 Stat. 1837, 1845.
Pub. L. 98–146, title I, Nov. 4, 1983, 97 Stat. 926.
Pub. L. 97–394, title I, Dec. 30, 1982, 96 Stat. 1972.
Pub. L. 97–100, title I, Dec. 23, 1981, 95 Stat. 1397.
Pub. L. 96–514, title I, Dec. 12, 1980, 94 Stat. 2963.
Pub. L. 96–126, title I, Nov. 27, 1979, 93 Stat. 961.
Pub. L. 95–465, title I, Oct. 17, 1978, 92 Stat. 1285.
Pub. L. 95–74, title I, July 26, 1977, 91 Stat. 290.
Pub. L. 94–373, title I, July 31, 1976, 90 Stat. 1048.
Pub. L. 94–165, title I, Dec. 23, 1975, 89 Stat. 983.
Pub. L. 93–404, title I, Aug. 31, 1974, 88 Stat. 808.
Pub. L. 93–120, title I, Oct. 4, 1973, 87 Stat. 434.
Pub. L. 92–369, title I, Aug. 10, 1972, 86 Stat. 513.
Pub. L. 92–76, title I, Aug. 10, 1971, 85 Stat. 234.
Pub. L. 91–361, title I, July 31, 1970, 84 Stat. 674.
Pub. L. 91–98, title I, Oct. 29, 1969, 83 Stat. 152.
Pub. L. 90–425, title I, July 26, 1968, 82 Stat. 431.
Pub. L. 90–28, title I, June 24, 1967, 81 Stat. 64.
Pub. L. 89–435, title I, May 31, 1966, 80 Stat. 175.
Pub. L. 89–52, title I, June 28, 1965, 79 Stat. 181.
Pub. L. 88–356, title I, July 7, 1964, 78 Stat. 280.
Pub. L. 88–79, title I, July 26, 1963, 77 Stat. 103.
Pub. L. 87–578, title I, Aug. 9, 1962, 76 Stat. 341.
Pub. L. 87–122, title I, Aug. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 252.
Pub. L. 86–455, title I, May 13, 1960, 74 Stat. 108.
Pub. L. 86–60, title I, June 23, 1959, 73 Stat. 96.
Pub. L. 85–439, title I, June 4, 1958, 72 Stat. 159.
Pub. L. 85–77, title I, July 1, 1957, 71 Stat. 261.
June 13, 1956, ch. 380, title I, 70 Stat. 261.
June 16, 1955, ch. 147, title I, 69 Stat. 145.
July 1, 1954, ch. 446, title I, 68 Stat. 368.
July 31, 1953, ch. 298, title I, 67 Stat. 269.
July 9, 1952, ch. 597, title I, 66 Stat. 454.
Aug. 31, 1951, ch. 375, title I, 65 Stat. 259.

Sept. 6, 1950, ch. 896, Ch. VII, title I, 64 Stat. 690.

§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.)
Editorial Notes

References in Text
Provisions relating to the special fund authorized by Public Law 99–190, referred to in text, were formerly
classified to this section. See Prior Provisions note below.

Prior Provisions
A prior section 50a, Pub. L. 99–190, §101(d) [title I], Dec. 19, 1985, 99 Stat. 1224, 1231, related to deposit
of amortization fees from Geological Survey providing telecommunications services.

Amendments
1994—Pub. L. 103–332 in first par., in second sentence after "work," inserted "facilities,", in third
sentence after "include" inserted "laboratory modernization and equipment replacement,", after
"operations" inserted ", maintenance,", and after "replacement of computer," inserted "publications,
scientific instrumentation," and in second par., in second proviso after "depreciation of equipment"
inserted "and facilities,".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted for "Geological Survey" in first paragraph pursuant to
provision of title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.

§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.)
Editorial Notes

References in Text
This appropriation, referred to in text, probably means appropriations under the headings "Geological
Survey" and "surveys, investigations, and research" of the annual Department of the Interior and Related
Agencies Appropriations Act.

Codification
Pub. L. 99–591 is a corrected version of Pub. L. 99–500.

In text, "Before, on, and after October 18, 1986" substituted for "heretofore and hereafter".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.

§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.)
Editorial Notes

References in Text
Appropriations herein, referred to in text, probably means appropriations under the headings
"Geological Survey", "surveys, investigations, and research" and "administrative provisions", of the
annual Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name
"United States Geological Survey" substituted in text for "Geological Survey" pursuant to provision of
title I of Pub. L. 102–154, set out as a note under section 31 of this title.

§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.)
Editorial Notes

Codification
In text, "section 6101 of title 41" substituted for "41 U.S.C. 5" on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, §6(c), Jan. 4,
2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

Prior Provisions
Provisions similar to those in this section were contained in Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, §101(e) [title I], Oct.
21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–231, 2681-243.

§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—
(1) facility planning;
(2) design;
(3) maintenance;
(4) operation; or
(5) 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—
(1) the facility described in subsection (a); and
(2) 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.
(Pub. L. 117–58, div. D, title II, §40204, Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 960.)
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Wage Rate Requirements
For provisions relating to rates of wages to be paid to laborers and mechanics on projects for
construction, alteration, or repair work funded under div. D or an amendment by div. D of Pub. L. 117–58,
including authority of Secretary of Labor, see section 18851 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare.

1 So in original. The comma probably should not appear.