What We Do

  • Natural hazards such as volcanos, earthquakes, tsunamis, wildfires, droughts, floods, and landslides can threaten livelihoods, ecosystems and economies. We monitor and research natural hazards globally to learn from and prepare for similar hazards here at home. Photo: U.S. Geological Survey

    Hazards

  • Mineral resources are crucial to the U.S. economy, which utilizes more non-fuel minerals than any other country in the world. We work internationally to improve regulation and revenue management by helping to assess mineral resources, provide technical training, and exchange lessons learned. Photo: U.S. Geological Survey, Peter Chirico

    Minerals

  • Science helps us better understand and manage the world in which we live, enabling us to investigate, predict, and respond to changes in our environment. International scientific cooperation supports habitat and wildlife conservation, energy generation, and climate change adaptation. Photo: U.S. Geological Survey and Geoscience Australia, Enhanced Landsat 8 Image

    Science

  • Indigenous communities have unique histories and diverse governing structures. We regularly exchange information with countries around the world to provide coordination and representation as requested by U.S. federally recognized tribes and other native communities. Photo: GSA Fine Arts Collection, Stephen Mopope, Ceremonial Dance (Indian Theme)

    Tribes

  • To ensure that energy resources are produced in the U.S. and overseas in an environmentally, economically, and socially responsible manner, we facilitate technical exchanges with other governments on renewable resource development. Photo: Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement

    Energy

  • Rivers, lakes, and aquifers across the country and the world are strained by population growth, economic development, and climate change. We partner with neighboring countries to effectively manage this important shared resource, including the Rio Grande that straddles the border between the United States and Mexico. Photo: National Park Service Mark Schuler, Big Bend National Park

    Water

  • Throughout the world, nature supports life and enables it to flourish. Poison darts frogs, found in Nicaragua and throughout Central America, are threatened by climate change, wildlife trafficking, habitat loss, and disease. Photo: DOI International Technical Assistance Program

    Nature

  • Around the world, communities celebrate and safeguard the places, history and culture which constitute their heritage. Indigenous peoples in the U.S. and internationally work to preserve their traditional knowledge, sacred objects and ways of life. In Petra, Jordan, we exchange best practices with Park staff who develop educational programs that contribute to its preservation for this and future generations. Photo: DOI Office of International Affairs, Lea Holcer

    Heritage