USGS has recognized the importance of Native knowledge and living in harmony with nature as complements to the USGS mission to better understand the Earth. Combining traditional ecological knowledge with empirical studies allows the USGS and Native American governments, organizations, and people to increase their mutual understanding and respect for this land. USGS provides information to Tribes as part of our basic mission of providing unbiased scientific information to the nation, and as part of the federal trust responsibility to Tribes.

National Native American Heritage Month is celebrated each year in November. It is a time to celebrate the diverse cultures, traditions, and stories of Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and affiliated Island communities and ensure their rich histories and contributions continue to thrive with each passing generation.  

This year’s theme at the Department of the Interior is, "Weaving Together our Past, Present and Future," focusing on educating the public about Native American cultures, histories, and the challenges they face today while emphasizing the resilience of Native people and their efforts to empower change to create a better future.  

Providing real-time or near real-time data and information on current conditions and earth observations.