FSP FAQs: Journal Publications
Fundamental Science Practices for releasing federally funded USGS research (manuscripts, data, software) in outside (e.g., journals) and USGS (e.g., USGS Series Reports, ScienceBase) outlets, as required by the public access plan. The Frequently Asked Questions include information on approvals, web pages, preprints, metadata, digital repositories, and what qualifies as a data release.
What are the categories of “Open Access” journals and what are the FSP peer review requirements for these products? [042]
Journal peer review processes—Category 1: anonymous peer reviews and draft manuscripts are not available to the public; USGS approval process for peer-reviewed journal articles is used. Category 2: peer reviews of draft manuscripts open to the public; two USGS-initiated peer reviews and Bureau approval are required before sending the manuscript to journal. [Read more]
What is the role of the approving official in selecting an appropriate publication release or outlet? [070]
Selection of the appropriate USGS publication series or external outlet is made by the author and Science Center Director, and may include consultation with PSC staff, managers and BAOs. [Read more]
When is USGS scientific software ready for approval and public release? [077]
Scientific software is ready for approval and public release when a version of the software is no longer under development, includes the appropriate documentation, and has been reviewed in accordance with IM OSQI 2019-01 requirements. [Read more]
How is web-only release of science information handled? [083]
It is the content, not the format or medium (e.g. web or print), that affects whether the FSP review and approval process is applicable. [Read more]
Who can post approved USGS publication series scientific information products to the web? [084]
All USGS publication series scientific information products are posted to the web by SPN staff. Science Centers may link to and add USGS publication references in their project and center web pages. [Read more]
What is the FSP policy for the release of USGS science information in journals and other outside publications? [085]
As with information products released by the USGS, the review and approval requirements for external information products are governed by FSP. Refer to SM 1100.4 for policy on outside publications. [Read more]
May USGS authors use preprint servers to distribute their journal manuscripts? [086]
Yes, authors may use preprint servers in accordance with the guidance provided for preprints.
Where can I find additional guidance related to releasing USGS scientific data? [087]
Additional guidance is available on the USGS Data Management web page and the FSP web page.
What Federal Government policies require the release of scientific data, and how does the USGS intend to meet these requirements? [088]
OSTP's February 22, 2013 memorandum Increasing Access to the Results of Federally Funded Scientific Research and OMB's memorandum M-13-13, Open Data Policy—Managing Information as an Asset require the release of scientific data. The Public Access to Results of Federally Funded Research at the USGS provides information related to how the Bureau meets these OSTP and OMB requirements. [Read more]
If a non-USGS lead author does not release data collected using Federal funds, is the USGS coauthor responsible for providing public access to those data? [090]
Regardless of authorship, if the research was federally funded, then the funding agency is responsible for providing public access to those data. [Read more]
What outlets are available for releasing data? [091]
The preferred path for USGS data release is through USGS data repositories or portals (e.g. Science Base, NWIS, BioData) to ensure that the USGS maintains the authoritative copy of the data it releases. [Read more]
How are raw data handled? [092]
Raw data refers to digital and nondigital data that are unprocessed and unverified. Raw data must be archived according to the USGS records disposition schedule, can be released as either provisional or approved data, and may be subject to FOIA requirements. [Read more]