Monitoring and Assessing our Nation's Water Quality

The U.S. Geological Survey has monitored and assessed the quality of our Nation's streams and ground water since its inception in 1879. Today, USGS provides information on issues such as the suitability of water for public supply and irrigation, aquatic ecosystem health, effects of agriculture and urbanization on water resources, acid rain, and disposal of radioactive waste. Through the integration of its six major water-quality programs, the USGS continues its mission to provide timely and relevant water-resources data and information that is freely available to all levels of government, non-governmental organizations, industry, academia, and the general public. The information provides a scientific basis for decision making related to resource management and restoration, and how we as individuals interact with our environment.