FSP FAQs: Data
Fundamental Science Practices addressing planning and conducting data collection, policies for data review, responsibilities for release, digital object identifiers, outlets for release (ScienceBase, digital repositories), cataloging metadata.
What data responsibilities need to be included in cooperator/collaborator agreements or contracts? [113]
The agreement or contract with the cooperators/collaborators should specify data management responsibilities, including curation and release. This information should also be included in the USGS project DMP; scientific data must be reviewed and include metadata. [Read more].
What are some examples of a dataset and a database? [114]
Aggregated data from an analytical laboratory or measurements made directly during fieldwork are examples of datasets. If datasets are combined into a searchable product or system, the product or system is a database. The National Water Information System (NWIS) is a database; data retrieved from NWIS are datasets. [Read more].
What are the requirements related to planning and conducting data collection and research? [115]
USGS data collection and research activities are governed by work plans. Work plans ensure scientific goals are achievable and appropriate to the mission of the USGS. [Read more]
How do I reference and cite the data supporting my publication? [116]
Include a complete bibliographic citation for the data source in the references section of the publication. Refer to the USGS Data Management website section titled "Citing Your Data." [Read more]
What is a USGS author's obligation when data collected by an outside source are used (with permission) in a USGS scientific information product and have not been publicly released by the data collector, and who is responsible for releasing the data? [117]
If the party collecting the data is another Federal agency, that agency has the primary responsibility for releasing the data according to their specific requirements. [Read more]
What are FSP requirements for release of research data collected by USGS but funded by external cooperators? [118]
If data are collected by USGS employees, students, emeritus and other volunteers, and contractors to benefit the USGS, or using USGS funds, it is the responsibility of the USGS to ensure appropriate release. An agreement between the cooperator/collaborator and USGS should specify the data management responsibilities. [Read more]
What are the recordkeeping requirements regarding research activities? [119]
Documentation and recordkeeping requirements associated with data collection and research activities are found in the USGS Mission-Specific Disposition Schedules and General Records Disposition Schedules.
What are the review and approval requirements for releasing scientific data to the public? [120]
Data intended for public release are subject to USGS FSP requirements including one data review and one metadata review, reconciliation, and Bureau approval by Science Center Directors or their designees. Data are never placed in the IPDS. [Read more]
Can I login and enter data into the USGS ScienceBase before those data have been approved for release? [122]
Yes. Users with restricted/private permissions may manage data in ScienceBase prior to formal release. [Read more]
Where do I get a DOI for USGS data that has been approved for release? [123]
DOIs are assigned during data release preparation in separate USGS repositories. Additional info available on data management website. [Read more]
Who may review data and metadata? [124]
A qualified individual or separate individuals possessing technical expertise, familiarity with data may conduct data and metadata reviews. [Read more]
May I obtain a Digital Object Identifier (DOI) for historical USGS data created before October 1, 2016, when the USGS public-access requirements went into effect? [125]
Yes, you may obtain a DOI for these data. Considerations apply. A DOI may be obtained using the USGS DOI Creation Tool. [Read more]