The U. S. Geological Survey has been involved in mapping in Alaska since the late 1800's. The initial mapping projects were principally in support of geologic or hydrologic studies. In the late 1940's, responsibility for Alaska mapping was assigned to the Geological Survey's Rocky Mountain Mapping Center and a comprehensive and systematic mapping effort was undertaken. This effort was principally directed towards providing topographic map coverage of the State at 1:63,360 scale. In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in mapping activity in the State. Presently the National Mapping Program in Alaska includes 14 different production mapping activities and several information and cartographic assistance activities.