Geographic Analysis and Monitoring Program (GAM) scientists conduct geographic assessments to improve the understanding of the rates, causes, and consequences of natural and human-induced processes that shape and change the landscape over time. The National Map, socio-economic, land remote sensing, and other natural science data are used to quantify rates, identify key driving forces, and forecast future trends of landscape change. Studies are conducted within a geographic context and at a range of spatial and temporal scales so that investigations provide comprehensive information needed to understand the environmental, resource, and economic consequences of landscape change.

The Earth's landscape is being changed by human-induced and natural processes, some of which have significant impact on ecosystem health and sustainability. The need for better information about causes and implications is especially evident for changes induced by fire, agricultural production, urbanization, forest logging, climate change, and other factors operating at broad regional scales. GAM scientists are conducting studies about land surface change, environmental and human health, fire and urban ecology, and natural hazards. Improved understanding and information about the consequences of landscape change are needed to help decision-makers in land-use planning, land management, and natural resource conservation.