Price for USGS Topo Maps Rises Gently
Released: 3/16/2009 6:30:00 AM
http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=2162

Contact Information:
U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey
Office of Communication
119 National Center
Reston, VA 20192        Jon Campbell <mailto:[log in to unmask]> 1-click
interview
<http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/interview.asp?e=joncampbell%40usgs%2Egov&n=Jon%2BCampbell>

Phone: 703-648-4180

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The price of the popular USGS 1:24,000 scale topographic quadrangle map
- often called a "topo" or a "quad" - will go up $2 per sheet to $8
beginning today March 16, 2009. Larger format ("poster") maps will go up
$3 per sheet to $10. These prices were last increased 7 years ago.

"The USGS takes this action reluctantly," said Kevin Gallagher,
Associate Director of the Geospatial Information Office. "However,
recent studies indicated that previous map prices did not allow us to
sufficiently recover the actual costs of reproduction and distribution
as we are charged to do by longstanding Office of Management and Budget
guidance under Circular A-130."

The U.S. Geological Survey began a systematic program of topographic
mapping in 1884 as an aid to scientific studies in geology and
hydrology. Since then, the maps have become a signature product of USGS
because the public has found them to be a valuable tool for accurately
depicting the land
surface.

"Even at the new prices, these maps are still a great bargain
considering the wealth of geographic information they provide,"
Gallagher added.

The nation is covered by more than 57,000 detailed USGS topographic maps
that show the shape and elevations of terrain and delineate a wide range
of natural features and built structures.  USGS maps are particularly
useful for natural resource managers, planners, engineers, and outdoor
enthusiasts. During natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and
earthquakes, thousands of USGS map sheets are typically rushed to the
area overnight to assist emergency agencies in response and recovery
efforts.

The USGS sells its maps and other cartographic products in various
formats from its distribution center in Denver, Colo. Paper maps are
principally sold through a nationwide network of business partners in
the private sector who help to ensure that USGS maps are available
everywhere on the landscape.  Information about where and how to
purchase USGS maps is available at the USGS Store
<http://store.usgs.gov/>.

The USGS serves the nation by providing reliable scientific information
to: describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and
property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy and
mineral resources; and enhance and protect our quality of life.