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Science Support Offices

The scientific excellence at the USGS is due to more than excellent scientists. Behind the field research and mapmaking is the Science Support team. The Science Support team aids USGS science by budgeting necessary funds for research, communicating the actions of our scientists to the public, verifying the validity and quality of our science, and providing essential resources for

    • Administration

      Our office establishes policies and coordinates and conducts in the areas of accounting and fiscal service, general services, security, information technology, safety and occupational health, acquisitions and grants, internal controls, technology transfer, facilities and property, environmental protection, and business systems.

    • Collage of USGS science in file folders representing organizing and preserving data. Sunset landscape in the background.

      Associate Chief Information Officer

      The Office of the Associate Chief Information Officer (ACIO) provides the critical information management and technology (IMT) foundation for the US Geological Survey (USGS) science mission.

    • Collage of scientists doing work in field with example budget tables and charts over as graphic elements.

      Office of Budget, Planning, and Integration (BPI)

      The Office of Budget, Planning, and Integration (BPI) secures fiscal resources needed for the USGS to perform its scientific mission goals, facilitates information sharing internally and externally, and provides in-depth analysis of budget and program performance data for the USGS to understand, anticipate, and respond to shifts in social and political paradigms.

    • Image: USGS Measures Historic Flooding Across the Nation

      Communications and Publishing

      The Office of Communications and Publishing (OCAP) is the front door to the USGS. While our scientists are conducting in-depth research, it is the job of the Office of Communications and Publishing to present their research in a format suitable to the public. Our office is in charge of everything from Social Media to Congressional affairs for the USGS.

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      USGS Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Office

      The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a Federal statute which allows individuals to request access to federal agency records, except to the extent records are claimed as exempt from disclosure under one or more of the nine (9) exemptions of the FOIA.

    • Photograph of a creek in West Virginia

      Human Capital

      The USGS Human Capital Office is a cohesive, collaborative team of professionals dedicated to creating partnerships with employees and leadership focused on supporting all USGS mission areas. With a strong commitment to provide high quality service to our customers, we ensure that the USGS has the Right People, in the Right Jobs with the Right Skills.

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      International Programs

      The USGS Office of International Programs helps facilitate and coordinate USGS science with diverse partners, including other federal agencies, international institutions, and foreign governments. USGS international activities support U.S. foreign policy and science diplomacy, and improve characterization and management of ecosystems and natural resources worldwide. 

    • USGS

      Office of Science Quality and Integrity

      The Office of Science Quality and Integrity (OSQI) monitors and enhances the integrity, quality, and health of U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) science through executive oversight and development of strong practices, policy, and supporting programs, including Science Integrity, Fundamental Science Practices, Tribal Relations, Youth, Education, Mendenhall Research, and more.