The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a scientific agency of the United States government responsible for providing information about natural hazards, the health of ecosystems, and the natural resources that make up the country. Founded in 1879, the USGS is one of the oldest and largest scientific organizations in the world. The agency’s mission is to provide unbiased and authoritative information to help decision-makers and the public understand, manage, and conserve the nation’s natural resources. The USGS is organized into several disciplines, including biology, geology, hydrology, and geography. Its scientists conduct research and monitoring on a range of topics, including earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, floods, droughts, climate change, and wildlife ecology. Additionally, the agency operates a nationwide network of stream gages, groundwater monitoring wells, and seismic stations. The USGS works closely with other federal agencies, state and local governments, academic institutions, and private organizations to share information and promote collaboration in science and technology. It also provides education and outreach programs to engage the public in the importance of Earth science and the role of science in decision-making.