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]
Why must the accepted manuscript be placed in the IPDS after it is published by the journal? [145]
The IPDS serves as an archive for short-term, temporary records. In the event the journal does not provide free public access, the accepted manuscript that is placed in the IPDS can be provided to the public through the USGS Publications Warehouse. This will ensure the USGS meets the OSTP public access requirement for federally funded research. [Read more]
What if a USGS coauthor finds out from the non-USGS lead author that the scientific information product has been accepted by the journal and will be published more quickly than expected? [144]
Inform your supervisor, Center Director, and BAO to expedite review and approvals; BAOs may be able to move the product up in their queues. Manuscripts that will be posted online as soon as they are received by the journal should obtain Bureau approval prior to submission. To avoid these situations, discuss the USGS FSP process with coauthors before a manuscript is sent to a journal. [Read more]
A journal requests that a USGS scientist contribute to a “book review”—what are the FSP review and approval requirements? [169]
The intent of the book review is to address the content, not advance the notion of purchase. Book reviews are, by definition, new interpretive content. As for other new interpretive science information, two peer reviews are required and Bureau approval by a BAO is required for the book review prior to it being submitted to the journal for publication. [Read more]