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U.S. Geological Survey Data Strategy 2023–33

Circular 1517
By: , , , , , , , and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/cir1517

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Abstract

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has long recognized the strategic importance and value of well-managed data assets as an integral component of scientific integrity and foundational to the advancement of scientific research, decision making, and public safety. The USGS investment in the science lifecycle, including collection of unbiased data assets, interpretation, peer review, interpretive publications, and data release, ultimately contributes to the transparency and availability of science. Foundational Government directives and laws, such as the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 (Public Law 115–435, 132 Stat. 5529) as well as Executive Order 13642, “Making Open and Machine Readable the New Default for Government Information,” provide a framework for addressing strategic data management. The USGS Data Strategy builds on that framework by outlining high-level goals and objectives that serve as a long-term, decadal guide toward achieving a broad, data-focused vision.

Benefits of the USGS Data Strategy are many. The USGS will contribute to open science by increasing efficiencies in the consistent management of valuable data assets; driving innovation that results in modernized capabilities to ensure data are analysis ready; increasing data skills across the Bureau to enhance workforce data literacy; broadening capacity to understand and address needs of stakeholders; and measuring progress in producing findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR) data products.

The major goals and objectives of the USGS Data Strategy promote maximizing the utility of USGS data based on stakeholder needs, promoting data innovation, coordinating common data practices, modernizing our USGS enterprise data architecture, and enhancing our data-centric culture. The goals and objectives in the strategy align with other Bureau strategic plans, guidance, and directives from the Department of the Interior and the Federal Government. This strategy is a key component to strengthen the Bureau’s data ecosystem to ensure a relevant, long-term capacity that supports internal needs and achieves its scientific mission in the most efficient and effective manner.

Suggested Citation

Hutchison, V.B., Burley, T.E., Blasch, K.W., Exter, P.E., Gunther, G.L., Shipman, A.J., Kelley, C.M., and Morris, C.A., 2024, U.S. Geological Survey data strategy 2023–33: U.S. Geological Survey Circular 1517, 7 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/cir1517.

ISSN: 2330-5703 (online)

Table of Contents

  • Acknowledgments
  • Abstract
  • Background and Purpose
  • USGS Data Strategy Goals and Objectives
  • Conclusion
  • References Cited
  • Glossary
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title U.S. Geological Survey data strategy 2023–33
Series title Circular
Series number 1517
DOI 10.3133/cir1517
Year Published 2024
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Office of Administration, Northwest Regional Director's Office, Science Analytics and Synthesis, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Office of the Associate Chief Information Officer
Description v, 7 p.
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details