USGS Extends Earth MRI Data Sharing With States
Published Date: 7/2/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Geological Survey is renewing its info collection for the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI) program, which teams up with state geological surveys to map Earth’s resources. This renewal means states involved will keep sharing important data, helping the government plan better and reduce paperwork hassle. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until August 3, 2026, to speak up!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
IIJA Funding Level for Earth MRI
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) directed funding for Earth MRI at $320,000,000 annually for five years (FY2022 through FY2026). Individual State Earth MRI projects funded through the competitive cooperative agreements may last up to two years.
Reporting Burden on State Surveys
State Geological Surveys that apply for or receive Earth MRI cooperative agreement funds must submit applications, progress reports, and final reports. USGS estimates 25 respondents, 125 annual responses, and a total of 2,600 burden hours per year (applications: 25 × 60 hrs = 1,500 hrs; progress reports: 25 × 3 × 8 hrs = 600 hrs; final reports: 25 × 20 hrs = 500 hrs). Responding is required to obtain or retain cooperative-agreement funding.
Information Collected to Ensure Compliance
USGS will continue collecting information as part of a consolidated workplan to manage and monitor cooperative agreement awards and to ensure funds are used according to the IIJA and federal assistance requirements under 2 CFR 200. The collection has OMB Control Number 1028-0133 and is an extension of an existing approved collection.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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