Changing roles of state geological surveys in the USA: Experiences from Illinois

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

State Geological Surveys (SGSs) in the USA play vitally important roles, providing sound, unbiased scientific information to each state and the nation. Although implementation of each survey’s scientific programme has evolved differently, these organizations are often the principal drivers of economic development, and they consult on policies for protecting land and water, mitigating geologic hazards and promoting sustainable development. The SGSs are represented by the American Association of State Geologists. For more than 110 years, they have partnered with the federal government on important geoscience issues concerning topographic and geologic mapping, water, mineral and energy resources, and geologic hazards. These collaborations continue to develop and expand across multiple specialties, providing critical support to the SGSs. The future role of SGSs will depend on legislative decisions, contributions to research and development and scientific advancement, and ability to leverage support from existing and new collaborations with academia and with federal, state, county and municipal agencies. The Illinois State Geological Survey, one of the largest SGSs, has continually pursued relationships across geoscience sectors to develop a strong multidisciplinary scientific programme. Going forward, all SGSs will be challenged to develop an effective data stewardship programme to communicate with a diverse clientele.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationThe Changing Roles of State Geological Surveys
PublisherThe Geological Society of London
Pages183-201
Number of pages19
Volume499
Edition1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 31 2020

Publication series

NameGeological Society Special Publication
PublisherGeological Society of London
ISSN (Print)0305-8719

Keywords

  • ISGS

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Water Science and Technology
  • Ocean Engineering
  • Geology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Changing roles of state geological surveys in the USA: Experiences from Illinois'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this