Strategic Directions for the U.S. Geological Survey Ground-Water Resources Program

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has been collecting and interpreting ground-water data since the late 1800Æs. Ground-water issues have increased in scope and complexity as competing demands on the resource have grown. Moreover, ground-water systems change over time in response to residential, industrial, and agricultural development, and in response to natural stresses such as droughts. Aquifers cross State lines and other political boundaries, creating the need for impartial regional and national ground-water information. The USGS Ground-Water Resources Program responds to these driving forces through ongoing efforts to examine and report on critical issues affecting the sustainability of the NationÆs ground-water resources.