Some USGS Topo Map Source Info
Terri Watson
a little time to plan ahead and research, here are three publications
and some addresses that let you order maps right from the USGS.
the USGS National Mapping Program puts out a couple of really useful
publications available from:
USGS Map Sales
Box 25286, Federal Center, Bldg. 810
Denver, CO 80225
There are two really useful volumes put out on a state by state basis.
One is:
(1) STATENAME Index to topographic and other Map Coverage.
This index "is designed to inform map users of the various series of
maps produced and distributed by the USGS, and to assist users in
selecting and purchasing maps. The index identifies quadrangle areas
by reference code, map name, and scale." This publication describes
the National Mapping Program and the types of maps available, describes
the series and scales of maps available, and gives a map based index of
all the different maps available.
The companion publicatioin to the publication above is the:
(2) STATENAME Catalog of topographic and other Published Maps
This is used after you find out which maps you want to order using the
Index.
This catalog gives ordering/purchasing information. Aside from the Map
Distribution Center address and info, it gives a list of locations
within that state, city by city, where you can purchase the maps
commercially. For instance, it lists 58 places in Wyoming that I can
commercially buy Wyoming topos. It also tells me whether those stores
in Wyoming carry only local maps, county maps, the whole state, or
multi-state maps. This pub also lists prices, file numbers, and
reference codes --- info that helps me find maps elsewhere.
It also lists the location of map depository libraries. These are
libraries throughout the state where many USGS maps are stored and
library personnel are specialists in advising patrons on coverage and
availability. Often depositories have maps for more than just one
state --- some have national coverage. These are great places to check
things out before ordering. In addition, if you only need specific
things, you can make copies. I once created a set of maps that I
needed for a trip to a really remote coastline in South America using
xeroxes of maps from a national depository in Washington. Saved
hundreds of dollars.
Finally, a book called:
(3) New Publications of the U.S. Geological Survey
is published monthly, and is available free.
You can get on the free subscription list by writing to the USGS, 582
National Center, Reston, VA 22092.
It is comprehensive, and not only covers maps of all natures, but books
and papers, etc.
Besides listing by product type (book, map, etc.) there is an index in
the back where you can look up a place or subject name and see if
anything new about El Nino, El Paso County Texas, or elastic waves (for
instance) has been published this month.
STANDARD DISCLAIMER!
Terri Watson
terri_...@nols.edu
Lander, Wyoming