20th anniversary of National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Act

Congress passed the National Cooperative Geological Mapping Act twenty years ago, on May 4, 1992.

The National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program (NCGMP) is the primary source of funds for the production of geologic maps in the United States and provides accurate geologic maps and three-dimensional framework models that help to sustain and improve the quality of life and economic vitality of the Nation and to mitigate natural hazards.

The NCGMP represents 2 decades of successful cooperation among Federal (FEDMAP), State (STATEMAP), and university (EDMAP) partners to deliver digital geologic maps to customers. Each of these three components has a unique role, yet all work cooperatively to select and map high-priority areas for new geologic maps.

Geologic mapping data from all of North America are presented via the National Geologic Map Database, and a common set of geologic map standards is being developed by the NCGMP in cooperation with the North American Geologic Map Data Model Steering Committee.
The USGS National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program is congressionally mandated by the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992.

[Much of this post is taken from the program page on the USGS website]