Biology
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Status and Trends of Birds
A compilation of USGS avian research. This is the best starting point for USGS information about birds. |
Birds of North America Taxonomic List
A table listing birds of North America that is sorted taxonomically (by order, family, and genus). |
Status and Trends of Mammals
A compilation of USGS research on mammals. This is the best starting point for USGS information on mammals from bats to grizzly bears. |
Status and Trends of Fish
A compilation of USGS aquatic research. This is the best starting point for USGS information about fish and aquatic biota. |
Status and Trends of Reptiles
A compilation of USGS research on reptiles. This is the best starting point for USGS reptile information. |
Invasive Species
The best starting point for USGS information on invasive species. |
Invasive and Endangered Species
This podcast provides a nice introduction to the concepts of invasive species and endangered species. |
Potential Effects of Global Change on Bats
A brief article (with reading list) on how bats might be affected by global change. |
Wildlife and Contaminants
A series of lessons titled "Counter Contamination: Data and DDE" that introduce the topic of ecotoxicology and guide students through the scientific process of gathering raw data and drawing conclusions about the impact of contaminants on wildlife.    |
USGS Contaminant Biology Program
The USGS Contaminant Biology Program investigates the effects and exposure
of environmental contaminants (such as mercury) to the Nation's living
resources, particularly those under the stewardship of the Department
of the Interior. |
Discovery for Recovery
4-year study using satellite telemetry to follow the spring migration
of northern pintails; has maps that show the migration of individual
birds, and overall map of the migration routes documented in study; background
material about pintails and this study; how satellite tracking works;
summaries of 4 years, each with maps, biologist's journal, and forum
(Q&A with biologists); pintail voice on study home page can be played. |
Sea Otters
Information about USGS research on sea otters. Includes links to podcasts, a video, other sources of information, |
A Field Guide
to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Coastal Southern California
The highly developed and urbanized area of coastal Southern California
is host to one of the richest herpetofaunas in the United States and
includes several species with State and Federal protected status. |
Conservation Genetics
Conservation genetics is the application of the tools and concepts of genetics to the conservation of biological resources. The USGS is conducting genetics and genomics research on many plant and animal species. |
Become a Phenology Observer
The National Phenology Network (sponsored by the USGS) is looking for volunteers to help monitor plant and animal species found across the United States. Learn how to monitor plant and animal phenology and sign up to contribute new observations to the national phenology database. Make this a classroom project! |
Whooping Cranes
The USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center has been breeding whooping cranes for release to the wild since 1967. This site has extensive information and Frequently Asked Questions about whooping cranes plus videos and a list of recent articles. Be sure to click on the site map to see fascinating photos and information about raising individual chicks. An additional 16-minute video discusses health, exercise, diet, and training of these birds that were once on the brink of extinction. |
Desert Tortoise Film: The Heat is On
This 30-minute film describes desert tortoises, their habitat needs, and what you can do to help them. |
Track Alaska Walruses
USGS Scientists attached satellite radio-tags to walruses in Alaska, which will provide estimates of their locations. Watch their progress! |
Amphibians
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Status and Trends of Amphibians
A compilation of USGS amphibian research. This is the best starting point for USGS information about amphibians. |
Checklist of North American Amphibian Species and Identification Guide
Only covers North America north of Mexico. Lists are organized by family or by species. About 25% of the listed salamanders and 50% of the frogs and toads have their own page with a photo, description, and a map of their range. |
North American Amphibian Monitoring Program (NAAMP)
NAAMP is a collaborative effort that uses volunteers to monitor populations of vocal amphibians. Participants who meet minimum standards are assigned roadside routes where data is collected after dark. This program is currently only active in states in the central and eastern U.S. |
USGS Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative (ARMI)
As amphibian populations decline, reports of malformed frogs, toads, and salamanders are increasing. Learn about amphibians as environmental bellwethers and Congressionally-mandated USGS efforts in support of amphibian research and conservation. Links to regional Web Sites, a searchable publication list, and copyright-free photos are included. |
Climate Change
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USGS Office of Global Change
Global change links, news topics, news releases, publications, podcasts, and Frequently Asked Questions. This is the best starting point for USGS global change and climate change science. |
USA National Phenology Network
A partnership that brings together citizen scientists, government agencies, non-profit groups, educators, and students of all ages to monitor the impacts of climate change on plants and animals in the United States. The Web site provides training and resource materials plus opportunities to contribute as an individual or group. |
Project Budburst
The USGS is a partner in Project Budburst, where students and citizen scientists provide observations of plant phenophases (first leaf, first flower, first fruit). This is an excellent way for classrooms or individuals to contribute to real research. Resources and guides are provided. Related classroom activities and teaching materials are also available. |
Climate Connections: Visiting Students in North Carolina
USGS scientists answer questions about climate change gathered from middle and high school students in Mt. Airy, North Carolina. |
Climate Connections: Questions from North and South Carolina
USGS scientists answer four questions about climate change gathered from citizens in North and South Carolina. |
Climate Connections: Questions from Puerto Rico
USGS scientists answer four questions about climate change gathered from citizens in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
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USGS News and Information on El Niño
The term El Niño (Spanish for "the Christ Child") refers to a warm ocean current that typically appears around Christmas-time and lasts for several months, but may persist into May or June. This Web site provides a general overview of the science of El Niño, and provides links to resources that discuss the weather's impact on floods, landslides, coastal hazards, climate and other information. |
Deserts—Geology and Resources
A publication written for the general public, it describes how deserts form, types of deserts, and landscape features typically associated with deserts. Learn about desertification as an indicator of climate change. |
USGS Carbon Cycle Research
Selected links to resources about the impacts of greenhouse gases on vegetation and climate change. |
Geologic Carbon Sequestration
Looking for a simple explanation of geologic carbon sequestration? This two-page fact sheet discusses the major concepts and provides an excellent diagram. |
Exchanges of Greenhouse Gases, Water Vapor, and Heat at the Earth's Surface
Discusses research into the exchange of greenhouse gases (notably: carbon dioxide (CO2), methane, and nitrous oxide), water vapor, and heat between Earth's land and water surfaces and the overlying atmosphere. |
Volcanic Gas
A fact sheet describing gases released by volcanoes. Volcanic gases contribute to the ongoing evolution of the atmosphere. |
Climate Change Lectures
Online videotaped lectures given at USGS science centers that are related to climate change. Each lecture is 60-90 minutes long (including question/answer period). Most are suitable for high school audiences. |
Melting Glaciers: Before and After Photographs
The USGS Repeat Photography Project for Glacier National Park pairs historic images of glaciers with striking contemporary photos to give global warming a face and make climate change a relevant issue. |
Greenhouse Gases Classroom Activity
Students observe and contrast thermal properties of three major greenhouse changes over time for dry air, water
saturated air, carbon dioxide, and methane.   |
Ecosystems
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Status and Trends of Ecosystems
A compilation of USGS research related to ecosystems. This is an easy and well-organized tool for finding USGS websites that cover various aspects of ecosystems, and is the best starting point for USGS ecosystem science. |
Lessons on the Lake: An Educator's Guide to the Pontchartrain Basin
Louisiana's Lake Pontchartrain Basin is home to 1.5 million people and an estuary ecosystem with enormous biodiversity. Activities in the educator's guide help students in grades 5-12 gain an understanding and appreciation of the Basin and teaches them the skills to identify environmental concerns, make changes, and solve problems. |
Land and People
Students look at interactions between people and the environment in three regions of the United States: Cape Cod, Los Angeles, and the Everglades. |
Interactive Bay Data
Look at plots of data collected from the water of San Francisco Bay, then generate your own plots using real data. How does a change in light penetration compare to water temperature? Does a change in salinity correspond with a change in chlorophyll? |
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Geography
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Online Maps of the United States
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The National Map Viewer
The National Map Viewer is a free, interactive map service that can be used to create and print a map of a local area, a state, or the U.S. No special software or download is required. The National Map has higher-resolution data (so you can really zoom in) and more complex functions than the National Atlas. This is an excellent tool for practicing the use of latitude/longitude, the national grid, elevation, distance, and much more. Maps can be printed on 8.5" x 11" paper. |
National Atlas of the United States®
This invaluable educational tool is a free, interactive version of the traditional paper United States atlas. Hundreds of interactive geospatial data layers are available for viewing or free download Most information is designed to depict geographic patterns and trends on a national scale. Topics include agricultural use, forestation, population density, transportation, and more. Use the Map Maker tool to create custom maps or print one of hundreds of pre-formatted page-size maps that are excellent for classroom use. This is the best source for creating quick maps that cover large areas. |
Geospatial One-Stop Portal
A central portal for access to maps and geospatial data from multiple
agencies (mostly Federal). Categories include Atmosphere, Climate, Culture,
Demographic, Business, Economic, Human Health and Disease, Utilities,
Communications, and much more. |
USGS Education Map Catalog
Click on "Education Products" to browse samples of popular USGS maps that are frequently used by educators. |
Map Teaching Resources
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Topographic Map Resources for Teachers
An overall summary of useful USGS resources for working with topographic maps: where to get them; how to interpret them; how to use them; explanations of coordinates, datums, and projections; and lessons for the classroom. Also available as a 2-page PDF file. |
Exploring Maps
Exploring Maps is an interdisciplinary set of materials on mapping for grades 7-12. Students will learn basic mapmaking and map-reading skills and will see how maps can answer fundamental geographic questions. The map images and activities in this packet can be used in various courses, including geography, history, math, art, English, and the sciences. |
Topographic Salad Tray Model
An inexpensive and easy way to create a three-dimensional model using topographic map contours. |
Map
Projection Publications
A list of map projection publications available from the USGS.
Includes a link to an on-line version of the very popular USGS Map
Projections poster, which describes eighteen different map projections
and compares their different properties.  |
Map Projections
Every map projection has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Learn about the eighteen most common map projections and how their properties and uses compare. A popular poster version of this information is available for free through the USGS Store (product number 16573). |
USGS Geography Products
A list of online fact sheets, booklets, and educational resources related to geography and mapping. |
Topographic Maps
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27 Ideas for Teaching with Topographic Maps
Contains 27 ideas for teaching with the approximately 57,000 topographic maps that the USGS offers. |
All about USGS Topographic Maps
A comprehensive description of topographic maps and how they were made prior to the digital age. |
Map Mysteries
Sample questions to use with USGS topographic and thematic maps as starting points to uncover mysteries about the cultural and physical geography of the Earth. |
Corn Maze Geography
Visit a corn maze and use these activities to learn about maps and geography. |
Finding Your Way with a Map and Compass
A brief description of how to navigate using a compass and topographic
maps. |
How to Use a Compass with a USGS Topographic Map
Learn to navigate using a topographic map and a compass. |
Topographic Maps Illustrating Physiographic Features
More than 50 years ago, the USGS selected a set of 100 topographic maps showing good examples of a wide range of physical features in the United States. The goal was to help students learn about the geologic evolution of the Nation's natural landscapes and to show how topographic maps reveal more about the land surface than its shape and elevation. The National Atlas is now launching an improved and revised digital "Set of 100 Maps" using a simple online viewer. |
Map Symbols
An explanation of topographic maps and map symbols. |
Free Digital USGS Topographic Map Quadrangles
Click on "Map Locator" to download free USGS topographic map quadrangles in georeferenced PDF (GeoPDF) format. These files were created using high-resolution scans and average 10-17 megabytes in size. |
125 Years of USGS Topographic Maps
December, 2009 marked the 125th anniversary of the USGS Topographic Mapping Program. View historical photographs of USGS topographers and cartographers at work. |
US Topo: The Next Generation Topographic Map
Do you teach about maps, or do you use them in the classroom? The USGS has developed a new map series called the US Topo. Modeled on the old topographic series, these maps are derived from digital data that will allow the entire contiguous U.S. to be remapped every three years. US Topo maps are currently only available for certain states in the central and eastern U.S., but maps of new locations area constantly being added. Download free digital US Topo maps through the Map Locator. Download PDF files of traditional topographic maps at the same site. |
Map Tools
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USGS Geographic Names Information System (GNIS)
GNIS contains information for almost 2 million physical and cultural geographic features in the United States and its territories. Query the database to find individual features and their corresponding coordinates. Search results include links to online air photos and topographic maps containing the feature. GNIS is also a layer of The National Map (above). |
Elevations and Distances
Tables of information covering elevations of features and distances between
points in the United States . Also locates the geographic center of
each state. |
Map-It: Form-based Simple Map Generator
Enter the longitude and latitude of points to plot on a simple map. Download
a postscript version of the resulting map. |
Satellite Imagery
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Tracking Change over Time
Enhance students' learning of geography, map reading, earth science, and problem solving through landscape changes recorded by satellites in space.
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Satellite Image Gallery
A special collection of satellite images that record beautiful sights, events of historic significance, and scenes that stir the imagination. Includes the 'Earth as Art' collection. All images can be downloaded for free as high-resolution JPEG files. |
Free USGS Satellite Images
Most USGS satellite images are now available for free download. Download an entire scene containing all bands and metadata in a single zipped file. Access the data through Earth Explorer or the more user-friendly GloVis Viewer. |
TerraLook
Download free georeferenced satellite images in JPEG format. In this format they can be visually interpreted and compared without the need for complicated software. Terra Look is a joint USGS/NASA project that anyone can use to see changes in the Earth over time. |
EarthNow!
A mesmerizing, near-real time viewer that displays data received from the Landsat 5 and Landsat 7 satellites as they pass over the United States. |
Earthshots: Satellite Images of Environmental Change
Before-and-after satellite images of environmental change events. The image sets include detailed descriptions of what occurred, a list of references, and a question/answer. |
Satellite Image of Your State
Download and print a spectacular free image of your state created by combining satellite imagery with the National Elevation Dataset. |
Download or Purchase USGS Maps and Satellite Imagery
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USGS Store
A quick and easy way to find and order printed USGS products: paper maps, books, and other publications. Also use this site to download free 1:24K, 1:100K and 1:250K topographic maps for anywhere in the U.S. in GeoPDF format, and to browse educational products. Teacher discounts are available for some purchases. |
EarthExplorer
Free downloads of digital USGS data including satellite imagery, digital aerial photos, and cartographic products. Some high-resolution scans of air photography must still be purchased. Locate products by name, coordinates, or define on a map. |
Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis)
The most user-friendly method for browsing and ordering Landsat, Terra ASTER, MODIS, and EO-1 satellite images and NAPP photography. Allows convenient preview of images and scene mosaics. All USGS satellite imagery is available through this Web site. |
Land Use History and Changing Landscapes
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The Southern Appalachians: A Changing World
The video and educational guide entitled The Southern Appalachians: A Changing World describe the Southern Appalachian Mountains and how the geologic events that took place millions of years ago influenced the landscape, climate, soils, and living things that can be seen there today. Spanning a vast area from Virginia to Georgia, the Southern Appalachians are some of the oldest mountains on Earth and are known worldwide for their unusual beauty and rich biological diversity. A video, a teacher's guide, and a free booklet called "Birth of the Mountains" are included in this comprehensive resource. A recent map, Geology of the Southern Appalachian Mountains is designed for educational use. |
Land Use History of North America
Describes the historical and on-going changes in land use and land cover
for several regions around the U.S. The section on Land Use Changes
in the Southwestern U.S. A section for teachers is under construction. |
USGS Urban Dynamics Research Program
Describes a project that analyzes land use change in urban
environments in order to provide a historical perspective of land use
change and an assessment of the spatial patterns, rates, correlation,
trends, and impacts of that change. Includes links to computer animations
of urban growth in the San Francisco Bay Area and the Baltimore-Washington
Area. |
Urban
Growth in American Cities (Circular 1252)
An on-line publication that illustrates the spatial history
of urban growth in sixteen areas around the U.S. and the corresponding
land use change. Images can be downloaded as GIF files. |
Population
Distribution - Urban and Rural - National Atlas article
Article describing population change in the U.S. 1990 - 2000.
Includes population numbers for each state and for the ten largest cities
plus graphs and maps. |
Analyzing
Land Use Change in Urban Environments (PDF)
Four-page USGS Fact Sheet describing and illustrating the need for urban
growth studies. |
Earthshots:
Satellite Images of Environmental Change
Earthshots is an e-book of before-and-after Landsat
images (1972-present), showing recent environmental events and
introducing the concept of remote sensing. Some changes are due
to natural causes and some are due to human causes. Each set
of images includes a detailed description, photographs and maps,
a list of references, and a question/answer. Images are best
used on-line. |
Repeat Photography for Mojave Desert Ghost Towns and Mining Sites
Look at photographs from multiple years to see how human activity has impacted the landscape around Mojave Desert mining towns and, alternatively, see the ephemeral nature of some of the towns and the degree to which the landscape has recovered from their presence. |
Thematic Maps
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USGS Map Catalog: Culture and History
Click on "Education Products" then "Culture and History" to browse maps related to the exploration, history, and cultural resources of the United States. Most of these maps can be purchased in paper format. Map titles include:
- Indian Land Areas Judicially
Established
- Indian Land Areas
- Indian Lands in the United
States
- Early Indian Tribes, Culture Areas, and
Linguistic Stocks
- Lewis and Clark: A Legacy of
Science
- Routes of the Principal Explorers
- 1857 Map
of the USA
- An Emerging Nation (first map
of the United States, made in 1784)
- Electing the President (political
map for 2000)
- Public Land Surveys Map (1776 through
1965)
- Outline Map of the United States
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Federal Lands and Indian Reservations - Printable Maps from The National Atlas
Download or print maps showing Federal Lands and Indian Reservations
in the U.S. and in individual states. PDF files print on 8.5" x 11" paper. |
Congress Congressional District Map - Printable maps from The National Atlas
Each map shows the Congressional District overlaid on top of State and
county boundaries along with interstate and US highways, select streams
and water bodies, and major cities. Maps are available in GIF and PDF
file formats and print on 8.5"x11" paper. |
Presidential
Elections: 1789-2000 - Printable maps from The National Atlas
Fourteen pages designed to be viewed and downloaded from the web. The
pages are a standard 8.5 by 11-inch landscape format. Each map is available
in GIF and PDF file formats that allow you to view and print the maps
on 8.5"x11" paper. |
Historic Exploration of the United States
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The Lewis and Clark Expedition
and the USGS
Links to USGS publications and other resources related to the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Includes resources specifically targeted to teachers and students. |
A Satellite View
of the Journey of Lewis and Clark
A collection of satellite images that provides a contemporary view of
the route that Lewis and Clark took from St. Louis , Missouri , to the
Pacific Coast . Includes descriptions of events that took place at each
location. Images can be viewed on-line or high-resolution JPEG files
can be downloaded and printed. |
GIS (Geographic Information Systems)
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Exploring Africa's Physical and Cultural Geography Using GIS
Use either ArcView or ArcGIS software to explore the geography of Africa through seven activities. |
Digital Elevation Model (DEM) Creation and Analysis
Create a DEM using interpolated elevations from a topographic map and GIS software. |
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Geology
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Geomagnetism
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A Brief Introduction to Geomagnetism
The USGS uses ground-based observatories to provide continuous records of the Earth's magnetic field variations. This simplified description uses images and a time-laps animation to explain phenomena created by the magnetic field that can be easily monitored and studied. |
Journey Along a Field Line
A sixteen-page comic book about the Earth's magnetic field. Travel down through the interior of the earth then back up into the ionosphere to learn how the magnetic field works. |
Astronomy and Astrogeology
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AstroKids! (USGS Astrogeology Research Program)
This Web site provides instructional guides, activities, and information about all the planets, moons, and known objects in the solar system. |
Browse the Solar System!
This Web site starts with a "clickable" image of a popular poster of all
the planets and moons in the Solar System, and provides links to images
and information about each of them. Printouts of each of the planets
could be used for a variety of classroom activities. |
Flagstaff Science Center
Looking for information on the moon, Mars, or impact craters? The Flagstaff Science Center is home to USGS astrogeology research. Take a special look at the Education and Outreach portion of the site for information, lesson plans, and activities that are "out of this world!" |
What Is A Bolide?
Learn how an asteroid impact may have contributed to a mass extinction
and led to the formation of Chesapeake Bay. |
Maps from the Astrogeology program
Global and regional maps of planets and moons. |
Planetary Image Locator Tool (PILOT)
The USGS has released a web-based tool enabling public access to NASA spacecraft images of the Moon and Mars. PILOT allows users to perform detailed searches to explore data sets archived from NASA space missions. |
Plate Tectonics
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This Dynamic Earth: the Story of Plate Tectonics
"This Dynamic Earth" is one of the most recommended and referenced primers on plate tectonics. Topics include a history of the theory, scientific developments that spurred its development, the mechanics of plate motions, and the relationship of hotspots to plate tectonic theory. A companion best-selling map, "This Dynamic Planet", is also available online or in print. |
This Dynamic Planet
Plate tectonics are fully illustrated on this best-selling world map (a companion to "This Dynamic Earth: the Story of Plate Tectonics") showing the locations of plate boundaries, volcanoes, earthquakes, and impact craters. Detailed ocean floor bathymetry and discussions of fundamental components are also featured. A paper version is available for purchase or the map can be downloaded free in PDF format. |
"Ring of Fire", Plate Tectonics, Sea-Floor Spreading, Subduction Zones, "Hot
Spots"
This resource page includes links to USGS information about
plate tectonics and volcanic eruptions including the geology behind
the Cascade Range Volcanoes, the East Africa Rift, the Iceland volcanic
rift, the Juan De Fuca Ridge and Juan de Fuca Subduction Zone, the
Marianas Trench, the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, South America, and the Hawaiian
and Yellowstone "hot spots." |
The Interior of the Earth
This booklet is an introductory guide to what is known about the interior
of our planet. |
Major Tectonic Plates of the World
A simple map of the major tectonic plates of the world. |
How to Build a Model Illustrating Sea-Floor Spreading and Subduction
Build a three-dimensional model using a shoe box. |
Plate Tectonics Tennis Ball Globe
Create a mini globe that shows the major plate boundaries of the world. |
Geologic Maps
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Geologic Maps and Mapping
Geologic maps describe the rocks and soils at the surface, provide information about what rocks lie at depth, describe the ages of rocks and soils, and show where features such as earthquake faults and landslides lie. Geologic maps are made by studying the rocks and materials exposed at the surface and depicting information about those rocks on a map. This resource page is particularly useful to help students understand geologic maps of areas near where they live or study. |
National Geologic Map Database
This exhaustive database provides bibliographic access to many thousands
of geologic, geophysical, and other kinds of maps available in USGS
publication, Web sites, and in popular science journals, etc. |
Tapestry of Time and Terrain
Shaded relief and geology are combined on this interactive map of the 48 conterminous states. It is a useful resource for discussing physiographic provinces and for viewing the location of rocks deposited during different geologic time periods. A paper wall-size version (one of the most eye-catching maps produced by the USGS) is available for purchase through the USGS Store. |
The North America Tapestry of Time and Terrain
The North America Tapestry of Time and Terrain is woven
from a geologic map and a shaded relief image. This digital combination
reveals the geologic history of North America through the interrelation
of rock type, topography and time. Regional surface processes as
well as continent-scale tectonic events are exposed in the three
dimensions of space and the fourth dimension, geologic time. This
map is an expansion of the original United
States Tapestry of Time and Terrain,
produced in 2000. |
Geology of the Southern Appalachian Mountains
Created for use in high school and college classrooms, this double-sided USGS map consists of a geologic map, photographs of geologic features, diagrams of plate movement, and more. The map is a companion to the DVD and Teachers Guide The Southern Appalachians, a Changing World and the brochure Birth of the Mountains. All product information is summarized in a pdf file. |
Rocks and Minerals
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Schoolyard Geology
Structured activities use man-made features that are found in a typical schoolyard to demonstrate geologic principles. |
The Life Cycle of a Mineral Deposit
Ten activity-based learning exercises about the uses of minerals and the processes of finding, identifying, and extracting the resources from a mineral deposit. |
Collecting
Rocks
Learn about different types of rocks and how to identify and collect them. |
Metal Recycling
How much metal does the U.S. recycle each year? Annual statistics and information about specific metals can be found here. |
Gemstones
Learn about the occurrence and production of various gemstones in the United States. The site is organized by state and gemstone. |
Minerals Statistics and Information
This Web site assembles statistics and information about the worldwide supply of, demand for, and flow of minerals and materials essential to the U.S. economy, the national security, and protection of the environment. |
The Lifecycle of a Mineral Deposit
This Web site is a teacher's guide for hands-on mineral education activities. Designed to meet the National Science Standards, as defined by the National Research Council, this General Interest Product (GIP-17) includes 10 activity based learning exercises that educate students on basic geologic concepts; the processes of finding, identifying, and extracting the resources from a mineral deposit; and the uses of minerals. Geared for fifth through eighth grade science teachers, this publication defines what a mineral deposit is and how it is identified and measured, how the mineral resources are extracted, and how the mining site is reclaimed; how minerals and mineral resources are processed; and how we use mineral resources in our every day lives. |
Rocks
and Minerals
Provides introductory information about rocks
and minerals with a glossary of commonly-used geology terms. |
Rocks and Geology of the San Francisco Bay Region
The landscape of the San Francisco Bay region is host to a greater variety of rocks than most other areas the United States. This introductory guide provides illustrated descriptions of 46 varieties of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks found in the region. Discussions about regional geology, the rock cycle, and mineral resources are included. Much of the rock information is applicable to any location and is not specific to the San Francisco Bay Region. |
Mineral Resources Online Spatial
Data
View maps and download data for the U.S. and the World. |
Historic Events in Minerals and Materials
This report provides a review of significant changes in industries
that consume metals and industrial minerals. It includes a timeline
showing major achievements in mineral production and events that affected
the U.S. mineral industry. These are related to overall U.S. mineral
consumption and years of war or recession. |
Minerals in our Environment
This report consists of a PDF file of a color poster (approximate dimensions
36 x 60 inches) showing how we use minerals in our everyday life. |
Mineral
Resources: Out of the Ground.Into our Daily Lives
This poster shows the common usage of mineral resources in our homes,
offices, and equipment we use daily. |
Mineral Use in Safety Applications in the Workplace
Find more examples of common uses for minerals. |
Building Stones of
Our Nation's Capital
This on-line publication provides descriptions and examples of all the
kinds of stone used in the buildings and monuments in the Washington
DC area, and discusses the impact of acid precipitation on our national
landmarks. An abbreviated and updated version of this publication is available as a 2-page fact sheet. |
The
Living Rock: The Earth's Continental Crust
This 1 hour film provides a global tour of geologic processes
through the eyes of several USGS scientists. |
Beryllium - Important for National Defense
As one of the lightest and stiffest metals, Beryllium has become a critical, strategic material in the defense industry. Learn more in this 2-page fact sheet. |
Chromium Makes Stainless Steel Stainless
Chromium is one of the most important and indispensable industrial metals because of its hardness and resistance to corrosion. Learn about its many uses in this two page Fact Sheet. |
Copper - A Metal for the Ages
Copper was one of the first metals used by humans. How is it used today? Where does it come from? Find the answers along with more fascinating facts in this four-page fact sheet. |
Gold—Why is gold such an important mineral?
This 23-page booklet gives a brief history of gold mining and the "gold fever" that has endured for centuries of civilizations. |
Lead - Soft and Easy to Cast
Lead is a corrosion-resistant metal that is easily molded and shaped. This two-page fact sheet describes where lead comes from and how we use it. |
Molybdenum Fact Sheet
What is molybdenum? How do we use it? Where does it come from? Find answers in this two-page fact sheet. |
Nickel - Makes Stainless Steel Strong
All U.S. coins except the penny are made of alloys that contain nickel? Find out how else it's used in this 2-page fact sheet. |
Zinc - The Key to Preventing Corrosion
How do we use zinc? Where does it come from? How can we ensure an adequate supply in the future? Find the answers in this two-page fact sheet. |
Mineral Resource of the Month
How is a specific mineral used in the United States? How much of that mineral is produced? These questions are answered in this series of two-page articles written for over sixty different minerals. |
Do We Take Minerals for Granted?
Did you know that the average automobile contains 42 lbs of copper? Use this site to learn about the everyday use of minerals, minerals and the environment, mineral supplies, and much more. An additional report on Geology and Nonfuel Mineral deposits of the United States is an excellent source of information, page size maps, and illustrations of the geologic processes. |
Soils
|
What's in My Soil? Classroom Activity
Students separate, examine and identify the major components of soil to better understand how these
components give soil its unique physical characteristics. |
Introduction to Soils
This complete lesson plan teaches students how soils develop and provides links between soils, climate, vegetation, and geology. Includes materials for both teachers and students (handout, puzzle, field and lab sheets).
|
Graded Bedding Classroom Activity
Students are introduced to the concept of graded bedding, in which particles are sorted by size as they settle out
of suspension. Students will discover that water is a good medium to separate and sort particles, and that
particles have different behaviors in water and air. |
Fossils and Earth History
|
Education Resources for Paleontology
This Web site provides links to paleontological resources
available from the USGS and elsewhere for teachers, students, scientists,
and others who are interested in paleontology and related earth
and biological science disciplines. |
Fossils, Rocks, and Time
This general guide provides an overview of geologic time and the use
of fossils to determine the age of layers in the earth. |
Our Changing Continents
This general interest publication provides an overview of
how North America's landscape has changed through geologic time. |
The
Southern Appalachians: A Changing World
This award-winning 25 minute film, co-produced with the National Park
Service, explains the origin of one of the oldest mountain ranges in
the world. |
Geologic Time
A brief online booklet that explains how the geologic time scale is defined and how the age of the earth is determined. |
Geologic Age
Students investigate radioactivity as a tool for measuring geologic time. |
The Geologic Time Spiral - A Path to the Past
The centerfold illustration from the popular USGS pamphlet "Geologic Time" is now available as a downloadable poster in both page-size and poster-size resolutions. This diagram is a wonderful representation of the age of the Earth from its creation, through the different geologic eras, and up to the present. Perfect for classroom walls! |
Caverns and Caves
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USGS Karst Web site
Information about USGS research on karst aquifers, which are a vital ground-water resource in the United States. |
The National Karst Map Project
Status of a project to create a national karst map in digital form, derived primarily from maps prepared by the individual States, and to link that map on a web-based network to State and local scale maps and related data. |
Karst Topography - Teacher's Guide and Paper Model
A brief description of karst topography with glossary and questions to ask students. The paper model must be downloaded separately. |
Sinkholes
A two-page fact sheet about sinkholes and their catastrophic occurrence in Missouri. |
Coastal Environments
|
The Fragile Fringe: A Guide for Teaching about Coastal Wetlands (from the USGS National Wetlands Research Center)
Material to use for developing a comprehensive study of coastal wetlands. Includes
background information, suggested activities, glossary, references, and
reading list. Activities can be demonstrated by the teacher or performed
by students. Emphasis is on Gulf Coast wetlands. |
Wise Wetland Ways
Teachers use wetland "artifacts" to stimulate a discussion about how we benefit from wetlands. |
Coasts in Crisis (Circular1075)
This Web site describes types of coasts (rocky shores, sandy beaches,
coastal wetlands, and coral reefs). It also provides discussion about
processes that affect beaches and coastlines including waves, tides,
weather, water-level changes, coastal vegetation, and human impacts of
beach sediments and processes. |
Natural Hazards
|
Natural Hazards Gateway
Provides many links and resources to USGS information related to earthquakes,
floods, hurricanes, landslides, tsunamis, volcanoes, and wildfires. |
Earthquakes
|
Earthquake Science Explained: Ten Short Articles for Students, Parents, and Families
Earthquake Science Explained is a series of short articles for students, teachers, and parents originally published as weekly features in The San Francisco Chronicle. This presents some of the new understanding gained and scientific advances made in the century since the Great 1906 San Francisco Earthquake. Concepts introduced in each feature are designed to address state and national science education standards. Written by USGS scientists, the articles go beyond traditional textbook information to discuss state-of-the-art thinking and technology that we use today. |
Living in Earthquake Country: A Teaching Box
This resource is an online assemblage of related learning concepts that focuses on teaching students about how and why earthquakes cause damage. This damage may take the form of landslides, liquefaction, or structural failure. Living in Earthquake Country explores seismic waves, the predictability of earthquakes at specific locations, the difference between magnitude and intensity, the occurrence of earthquakes along patches of planar faults (they are not just a single point, but have lengths and widths), and the potential damage caused by earthquakes. At the conclusion, students are asked to select the best place to live in the San Francisco Bay Area. They will justify their selection by using the knowledge gained through this exploration. |
The
Great 1906 San Francisco Earthquake: 100 Years Later
A list of links to USGS science and products about the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake. Includes simulations of ground shaking, earthquake intensity maps, a virtual tour of the San Francisco Bay Area faults, historic photographs, an earthquake survival handbook for the San Francisco Bay region, and much, much more. |
Selected high interest earthquake Web sites include:
Web sites that address specific content standards relating to earthquakes
include:
|
Earthquakes
A 20-page online booklet that explains the nature and causes of earthquakes. Describes techniques used to detect, record, measure, and predict seismic disturbances. |
The Severity of an Earthquake
The severity of an earthquake can be expressed in terms of both intensity and magnitude. Learn the difference between these two terms and how the scales are determined. |
Earthquake Maps
Database of seismic hazard maps, earthquake maps, site response,
and fault and landform maps. |
National Seismic Hazard Maps
National maps of ground motion. |
Shake Maps
Regional maps of ground motion and shaking intensity. |
Quaternary Faults and Fold Database of the United States
This Web site contains information on faults and associated folds in the
United States that are believed to be sources of M>6 earthquakes during
the Quaternary (the past 1,600,000 years). Maps of these geologic structures
are linked to detailed descriptions and references. Many of the faults
described in this database are in California. |
Putting Down Roots In Earthquake Country: Your Handbook For the San Francisco Bay Region
This general interest publication provides information about
San Francisco Bay region earthquakes (cause, history, probabilities,
effects) and provides detailed information about how to be prepared
when a major earthquake happens. The guide identifies specific steps
to improve your safety before, during, and following an earthquake.
This "must read" document
provides sound advice for anyone living in a potential disaster zone. |
| Earthquake Probability Map for San Francisco Bay Area |
The San Andreas Fault System, California
This classic book is both a technical and exhaustive resource of information about the San Andreas Fault and is an essential companion to all newly published research about the fault system. The book is available for download or to purchase. |
The
San Andreas Fault In The San Francisco Bay Area, California:
A Geology Field Trip Guidebook To Selected Stops On Public Lands
This field guide provides descriptions of the section of the San Andreas
Fault that ruptured in the Great San Francisco Earthquake of 1906. Descriptions
of places the public can go range from the South Bay regions near Hollister,
San Juan Bautista, throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains between San Jose
and San Francisco, and Point Reyes National Seashore. Introductory materials
include an overview of the San Andreas Fault System, geology, landscape
features, and plant communities that reveal information about the underlying
geology. |
The San Andreas Fault
This general interest publication describes the San Andreas Fault system
and its history of earthquakes. |
Earthquakes In and Near the Northeastern United States, 1638-1998
This thematic map documents earthquake activity in the northeastern United States from the time of the first settlers. A companion fact sheet is also available for download. |
Earthquakes in the Central United States—1699-2002
More than 800 earthquakes are shown on this downloadable map detailing seismic activity in the most active region of the central United States. |
Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country: Your Handbook for Earthquakes in the Central United States
This informative publication provides information about the threat of earthquakes in the central United States, particularly along the New Madrid seismic zone. |
Earthquake Hazard in the New Madrid Seismic Zone
This USGS fact sheet summarizes recent developments related to seismic activity in the central Mississippi River Valley. Learn more at the USGS Web site for the New Madrid Seismic Zone. |
Bicentennial of the 1811-1812 New Madrid Earthquake
Several of the largest historical earthquakes to strike the continental U.S. occurred in the winter of 1811-1812 along the New Madrid Seismic Zone, which stretches from just west of Memphis, Tennessee into southern Illinois. In 2011 and 2012, events will be held throughout the central United States observing the 200th anniversary of these events. Download and print the Bicentennial of the 1811-1812 New Madrid Earthquake Sequence poster, and learn more about earthquakes in the central United States with the fact sheet Earthquake Hazard in the Heart of the Homeland. |
| FAQs about Earthquakes, Faults, Plate Tectonics, and Earth Structure |
Tabletop Earthquakes
Construct a simple earthquake machine to demonstrate the principles of seismology. Includes supporting instructional material. |
Earthquake Summary Posters
View and download posters that provide detailed information and a brief discussion about large earthquakes soon after they occur. Images include the epicentral area, plate tectonic environment, earthquake history, and generalized seismic hazard of the region. The posters serve as a one-stop-shop for information about large earthquakes that have occurred since 2002.
|
Earthquake Probability Maps For Your Location
Create a custom earthquake probability map for your area by entering your zip code or latitude/longitude. |
Tsunamis
|
Surviving a Tsunami-Lessons from Chile, Hawaii, and Japan
This on-line publication describes the causes and impacts of large tsunamis,
with examples from around the Pacific Rim. |
Western Coastal & Marine
Geology (USGS)
This Web site provides access to information about scientific
research in the coastal and offshore areas of California and other states,
including marine earthquake, tsunami and other submarine hazards and
processes. |
Tsunamis & Earthquakes
This Web site provides information about USGS tsunami research
and links to information Web sites about the origins of tsunamis and QuickTime
animations of tsunamis in the Pacific region including a recreation of
the probable tsunami associated with the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake. |
Tsunamis (USGS
Earthquake Hazards Program Facts & Lists
page)
This resource page provides links to many tsunami information and resources. |
Landslides
|
Landslide Types and Processes
This four-page fact sheet provides a brief introduction to types of landslides and mass movement associated with gravity and stream floods. |
The Landslide Handbook—A Guide to Understanding Landslides
What is a landslide? Where do they occur? What causes them? How are they monitored? How can they be prevented? What safety measures can you follow if you live near steep hills? All these questions are answered in this 129-page publication. Written for a general audience, it is heavily illustrated with diagrams and photographs taken at location around the globe. |
Landslide Photo Collections
Landslide photos from all over the United States. |
Landslide
Hazards
This Web site provides basic information about landslide hazards and safety
issues related to wet weather conditions in landslide-prone areas. |
National Landslide Hazards Mitigation Strategy: A Framework for Loss Reduction
This circular outlines the key elements of a comprehensive and effective
national strategy for reducing losses from landslides nationwide and
provides an assessment of the status, needs, and associated costs of
this strategy. |
National Landslide Overview Map of the United States
This interactive map show landslide and flood hazard areas of the United
States. |
Debris Flow Hazards in the United States
Learn what causes debris flows (fast-moving landslides) and how they affect us. |
Map Showing Inventory and Regional Susceptibility for Holocene Debris Flows, and Related Fast-Moving Landslides in the Conterminous United States
This map shows debris flow hazard areas of the United States,
including California. |
Riding the Storm—Landslide Danger in the San Francisco Bay Area
A catastrophic 1982 rainstorm triggered 18,000 landslides in the Bay Area, claiming 25 lives and causing $66 million in property damage. Learn what USGS scientists have discovered in the last two decades about landslide dynamics and which slopes are most susceptible to sliding. |
Volcanoes
|
Volcanoes!
Volcanoes is an interdisciplinary set of materials for grades 4-8. Through the story of the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, students will answer fundamental questions about volcanoes. The teaching packet reflects the goals of the National Science Education Standards developed by the National Research Council and incorporates a number of related subjects, including other sciences, social studies, language arts, and mathematics. |
Living with a Volcano in your Backyard
Activities address volcanic processes and hazards, community safety, and the impact of volcanoes on our culture and history. These are structured around (but are not limited to!) the Cascade Range volcanoes. |
Fire and Mud: Eruptions and Lahars of Mt. Pinatubo, Philippines
This history of the devastating 1991 eruption of Mt. Pinatubo highlights the new science that was learned at the time and challenges that lie ahead to prevent and/or mitigate another disaster. |
Alaska Volcano Observatory
The AVO Web site contains current information about Alaska's
volcanoes, FAQs, images, regional maps, and more. |
Cascades Volcano Observatory
This USGS Web site has resources and links to practically every conceivable
concept related to volcanoes, particularly those in the western United
States, Hawaii, and Alaska. This comprehensive Web site includes current
volcanic activity information. An educational resources page has teaching
guides about volcanoes, activities and "fun stuff", posters,
access to videos, special features, and much more! |
Hawaii
Volcano Observatory
This Web site provides comprehensive information about Hawaii's active
volcanoes with many graphics and features. |
Long Valley Volcano Observatory
Find out what USGS scientists are discovering about this perhaps not
widely known volcanic area in eastern California. Long Valley Volcanic
System extends from Mammoth Mountain to Mono Lake. |
Yellowstone Volcano Observatory
Find out about current seismic and potential volcanic activity in Yellowstone
National Park. |
Volcanoes
A 45-page online booklet that summarizes basic information about volcanoes – their types, different kinds of eruptions, related features, volcano research, and more. |
Living with Volcanoes
Volcanoes killed more people (over
28,500) in the 1980's than during the 78 years following the 1902 eruption
of Mont Pelee (Martinique). This publication summarizes the Volcano Hazards
Program -- its goals, the activities designed to achieve these goals,
some key accomplishments of the past two decades, and a plan for work
that started in the the 1990's. |
Geologic Hazards at Volcanoes
Download a pdf file of this 18"x27" poster showing a diagram of a cut-away volcano and the various hazards associated with volcanoes either during or between eruptions. The poster can also be ordered for free through the USGS Store ($5.00 handling fee). Product number 208285. |
Alaska Volcanoes Guidebook for Teachers
Over a third of Alaska's 140 volcanoes have been active in the last 300 years. This new online-only publication has chapters covering the tectonic setting, rocks, eruption styles, landforms, community impact, effect on climate, and monitoring of Alaska's volcanoes. Each chapter has 3-4 detailed classroom activities for grades 6-12 and a large amount of supplemental materials. |
Eruptions in the Cascade Range During the Past 4,000 Years
Download a pdf file of this 20" x 24" poster showing a timeline of eruptions in the Cascade Range. The poster can also be ordered for free through the USGS Store ($5.00 handling fee). Product number 208284. |
Eruptions of Hawaiian Volcanoes - Past, Present and Future
Download a free PDF of this publication that focuses on the eruptive history, style and products of two of Hawai'i's active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Written for a general audience, this publication is richly illustrated with diagrams and photographs. |
Volcano Hazards Web Site
The newly revised USGS Volcano Hazards Web site now includes a real-time status map of volcanoes, Quick Links to popular volcano information, and an expanded Resource Page for Educators! |
3-D Animation of Mount St. Helens
This animation is based on bare earth digital elevation models derived from lidar. When incorporated into the National Elevation Dataset, these animations become a valuable tool for studying debris flows surrounding volcanoes. |
Mount St. Helens Eruption - 30th Anniversary
On May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens Volcano exploded violently, causing the worst volcanic disaster in the history of the United States. Visit the anniversary Web site to explore materials about the eruption, including a new poster, 30 Cool Facts about Mount St. Helens (free through the USGS Store). Watch a fascinating new video in which USGS scientists recount their experiences during the eruption, and see how the eruption has triggered a growth in volcano science and volcano monitoring. |
Geology in Action
Watch the growth of the lava dome in the Mount St. Helens crater from 2004-2008 in this time-lapse movie. The dome grew at an average rate of 8 cubic yards per minute! |
Predict an Eruption!
This highly interactive site uses animations, illustrations, activities, and quizzes to show how eruptions at Mount St. Helens were accurately predicted by USGS scientists, then allows students to predict an actual eruption using real data. |
America's Volcanic and Geologic Past
Most of what is now the United States has experienced volcanic activity at some point in geologic history. Read about the volcanic past of each state, followed by a brief summary of the overall geologic history of the state. Find more state-based science through Science in Your Backyard. |
Volcanic Ash
What is volcanic ash? How does it affect agriculture, transportation, communications, water supplies, and human health? Learn all this and more at the USGS Volcanic Ash Web site. |
Yes! Yellowstone is a Volcano
The USGS Scientist-in-Charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory answers basic questions about Yellowstone in three online videos, each lasting about seven minutes. |
Wildfires
|
Fire
and Invasive Annual Grasses in Western Ecosystem
Research on ways to prevent invasive annual grass invasions and restore
invaded habitats; this particular study has a nice photo gallery of field
work on prescribed burning and monitoring. |
Fire and Fire Surrogate Study Sequoia National
Park Site
Evaluating the ecosystem impacts of different fire hazard reduction treatment
in forests that historically experienced short-interval, low- to moderate-severity
fire regimes. |
Effects
of Fuel Management Treatments in Piñon Juniper Vegetation
at a Site on the Colorado Plateau
Study on the cost-effectiveness and ecological effects of various combinations
of thinning, seeding, and burning to restore sagebrush steppe vegetation. |
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Water
|
USGS Water Science for Schools
This site is the best starting point for a wealth of general information about water science. What is water? What are its properties and how are they measured? How is water used? How does the USGS measure streamflow and collect water samples? A glossary, picture gallery, and activity center are among the many additional features. |
USGS Water Resources Web site
The USGS Water Resources Web site makes it easy to find the information and data that you need for classroom use. Click on the Data tab to find databases (including real-time data), reports, and information about the transport of sediments and contaminants. Be sure to visit the Water Education page with its exhaustive list of resources. |
Science in Your Watershed
Find scientific information about your local watershed. Information is from the USGS and multiple other organizations. Includes links to educational information from many of those agencies. |
Water-related Map Layers from The National Atlas
Click on "View Sample Layer" to enter The National Atlas Map Maker and zoom in on maps of aquifers, dams, hydrologic units, streams, glaciers, and water use for the United States. Create your own custom view and either print it on 8.5"x11" paper or download the data for use in GIS software. |
Water Use in the United States
How much water do we use in the United States? How do those numbers change over a 5 year period? |
Hands-on Experiments to Test for Acid Mine Drainage
Fourteen very basic exercises use home-made litmus paper and household items to test creek water for acid mine drainage and to look at plants, bacteria, and insects living in the water. |
Chemical and Pathogenic Contaminant Exposure by Drinking Water
Scientific data and information on the occurrence, fate, and transport of contaminants in water, assessments of drinking water sources, and the vulnerability of water supplies to contamination. How safe is your water? |
Ask a River to Text You with a WaterAlert
Incorporate real-time data in the classroom by receiving instant, customized updates about water conditions at a specific river through WaterAlert, a new service from the USGS. |
Movement of Hazardous Waste
Students observe the movement of contaminants and experience the difficulty of cleaning contaminated water. |
Water Distribution
A classroom demonstration to show the different sources of freshwater on Earth. |
Auditing Your Water Use
Students use forms to chart the volume of water that they use at home and at school. |
Recharge-Discharge
Use gravel, twigs, and water to create a valley model that demonstrates the recharge and discharge of groundwater. |
Dispersion of Nonpoint Pollutants
A simple activity demonstrates the difficulty of determining the source of pollution. |
How Substances are Measured in Water
Food coloring in cups of water help students visualize and calculate extremely small concentrations of a material in water. |
Groundwater
|
USGS Ground Water Information Page
This gateway to ground water information and data is an excellent starting point for learning about ground water. Includes links to maps, real-time data, ground water basics, publications, and selected topics. |
What is Ground Water?
A very simple explanation of ground water and aquifers. Diagrams are included. |
Ground Water Atlas of the United States
Learn about the ground-water resources of regional areas that collectively cover the U.S. and its territories. Text and maps are used to describe the climate, physiography, geology, land use, major aquifers, and ground-water withdrawals for each region. |
Aquifer Basics
An underground layer of permeable rock, sediment, or soil that yields water is called an aquifer. This site describes different kinds of aquifers and where they are located. |
Sustainability of Ground-Water Resources
Ground water is one of the Nation's provides about 40 percent of
the public water supply in the United States. This Web site provides information
and discussion about one or our nation's most precious resource, our
groundwater supply. |
Groundwater and Surface Water - A Single Resource
This publication includes a chapter on the hydrologic cycle and illustrates the interactions of groundwater and surface water. The report discusses issues related to water supply, water quality, and degradation of aquatic environments. |
Ground Water and the Rural Homeowner
This comprehensive 36-page booklet describes groundwater as it relates to problems that rural homeowners might encounter, such as digging a well, water-level declines, and contamination. |
The Importance of Groundwater Studies
Why is the study of groundwater so important? Listen to an eight-minute CoreCast (podcast) that highlights six different USGS groundwater studies across the United States. |
Floods
|
Large Floods in the United States: Where they Happen and Why (Circular 1245)
A 13-page on-line publication that describes the geographic and climatic factors that influence the occurrence and impacts of large floods in the United States. |
Significant Floods in the United States During the 20th Century - USGS Measures a Century of Floods
During the 20th century, floods were the number-one natural disaster in the United States in terms of the number of lives lost and property damage. This 4-page fact sheet briefly describes the different types of floods and lists the 32 most significant floods during the 20th century. |
What is a 100-Year Flood?
The term "100-year flood" is part of the national lexicon, but is often a source of confusion. Download and/or print this free poster that attempts to explain the concept, probabilistic nature, and inherent uncertainties of the "100-year flood" to the layman. Print full-size at 44" x 38" or on 11" x 17" paper. |
Size and Occurrence of Floods
Students use macaroni or beans to calculate the statistics of floor recurrence. |
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U.S. Department of the Interior |
U.S. Geological Survey
- Digital data or images