New & Noteworthy

Press Release: Study Explores Groundwater and Geothermal Energy in Drought-Stricken Eastern Oregon and Neighboring States

Technical Announcement: USGS Issues Revised Framework for Hydrogeology of Floridan Aquifer

Press Release: High Plains Aquifer Groundwater Levels Continue to Decline

Regional Groundwater Availability Study Geospatial Data

Press Release: USGS Assesses Current Groundwater-Quality Conditions in the Williston Basin Oil Production Area

Past listings...

USGS Groundwater Watch

USGS maintains a network of active wells to provide basic statistics about groundwater levels.

Other Water Topics

 Water Resources

 Groundwater

 Surface Water

 Water Quality

 Water Use

USGS in Your State

USGS Water Science Centers are located in each state.

Contents | Introduction | Importance of Ground Water to the Nation | Evolving Ground-Water Issues and USGS Programs | Relationship of GWRP to Other USGS Programs | Current Activities of the GWRP | Future Priorities for the GWRP | Concluding Remarks |

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS FOR THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY GROUND-WATER RESOURCES PROGRAM

A Report to Congress

November 30, 1998

INTRODUCTION

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has been collecting and interpreting ground-water data since the late 1800's. 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 Nation's ground-water resources.

This report discusses strategic directions of the Ground-Water Resources Program. The report is in response to a request from the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Interior Appropriations in its report to accompany H.R. 4193.