Status of the National Water Data Exchange (NAWDEX); September 1976

The National Water Data Exchange (NAWDEX) has been established to assist users of water data in the identification, location, and acquisition of needed data. NAWDEX is not a depository of water data; its objectives are to provide the user with sufficient information to define what data are available, where these data may be obtained, and in what form they are available; also to describe some of their major characteristics. NAWDEX is comprised of water-oriented organizations in the Federal, State, and local governments, and in the academic and private sectors of the water-data community who work together to make their water data readily and conveniently available. Data search and referral services are currently provided through the Program Office established by the U.S. Geological Survey which has the lead-role responsibility for NAWDEX operations. During its first year of operation, a computerized Water Data Sources Directory was developed which identifies more than 300 organizations that collect water data, the types of data they collect, and the locations within these organizations from which the data may be obtained. NAWDEX is expanding its services and is establishing a nationwide network of Local Assistance Centers for local users ' access to these services. (Woodard-USGS)