What kinds of water data does the U.S. Geological Survey gather?

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USGS Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What kinds of water data does the U.S. Geological Survey gather?

Answer:

Data about water use is only one kind of water data that USGS compiles. We also collect data about the country's surface water, such as how much water is flowing in our streams and rivers, and when a river reaches "flood stage." Ground water is studied -- the amount of water stored in underground aquifers and how human's usage of that water affects the amount available. We track the movement of contaminants from the land surface into and through aquifers and see if these contaminants are in water withdrawn from wells. A lot of work also goes into studying the quality and chemical makeup of our water resources. The USGS has water-quality laboratories where water samples are analyzed.

To accomplish these tasks, the USGS has over 150 field offices where personnel are involved in the following activities:

Collecting water samples from ground- and surface-water bodies

Making measurements of water properties, such as pH and temperature

Measuring stream flows and the amount of water in wells

Analyzing water samples in the field and in laboratories

Compiling data from many sources about how much water is used for different purposes

Writing reports about our water resources

Creating many computerized water data bases

Producing maps, reports, and other output (such as the screen you're looking at now!) to give the public and others information about our water resources

Keeping the U.S. Congress and the President informed about water-resource issues

Source of this FAQ:
http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/qausgs.html