Florida Science Centers

"The U.S. Geological Survey (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." In addition to the Survey's mission, the Florida Science Centers have a special mission to provide USGS science to Florida, the Southeastern States, the U.S. Caribbean, and elsewhere in the world. We are also leaders in seeking new and innovative ways to meet the critical need for sound, objective scientific information that can be applied to issues of local to international concern.

USGS Florida Science Highlights

DISCOVRE 2009

Deep-sea coral reefs are novel ecosystems, and scientists are just beginning to discover the fundamentals of these systems – from cataloging new organisms to piecing together their foods webs. Little is known about the organisms that live in these reefs, how they survive in deep-sea environments, or how they respond to disturbances. The final DISCOVRE cruise of 2009 will investigate deep-coral ecosystems in a region recently designated as a Coral Habitat Area of Particular Concern (CHAPC). Located off the coast of North Carolina, this region is part of the largest protected deep-sea area in continental U.S. waters. Click here

USGS Report Quantifies Streamflow Losses within the Upper Peace River Watershed

Scientific Investigations Report 2009–5140 cover image The Peace River is one of the largest watersheds in Florida extending from central Florida's phosphate mining district to the southwest coast where it discharges into the Charlotte Bay estuary. The river serves as a drinking water supply for a growing population of downstream residents in southwest Florida.

Streamflow losses from the upper Peace River through sinkhole features have altered river flow patterns by capturing streamflow volume and diverting it into the groundwater system. To anticipate and plan for future changes in the region's watershed, the USGS report quantifies the streamflow losses within the streambed and floodplain and relates them to the hydrologic conditions of the area.

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Publication

A Centennial Tribute, 1906-2006: History of U.S. Geological Survey Streamgaging Activities for the Suwannee River at White Springs, Florida

Circular 1330
cover image For centuries, the banks of the Suwannee River at White Springs were considered a sacred ground where people sought refuge in its “healing waters.” Many believed that the mineral-enriched waters cured illnesses. The U.S. Geological Survey began continuous streamgaging activities at White Springs, Florida, in 1906 after an increase in congressional appropriations and rapid town development due to growing tourism and residential population. Find out more

Mercury, a neurotoxin, is one of the most serious contaminants threatening our nation’s waters

Scientific Investigations Report 2009–5109 cover image Mercury (Hg) was examined in top-predator fish, bed sediment, and water from streams that spanned regional and national gradients of Hg source strength and other factors thought to influence methylmercury (MeHg) bioaccumulation. Sampled settings include stream basins that were agricultural, urbanized, undeveloped (forested, grassland, shrubland, and wetland land cover), and mined (for gold and Hg). Find out more

USGS Florida Science Highlights - 2009

Of Current Interest

The St. Petersburg Science Center's 11th Annual Open House and Earth Science Day for Fourth Graders

"Understanding Climate" is the theme for the 2009 Open House. Scientists will share how plants, animals and rocks give us clues to understanding the earth's climate secrets. Hands-on exhibits provide an opportunity to learn about the many ways climate affects the world around us.

Learn about how climate change can affect sea level, coastal ecosystems, coral reefs, native reptiles, invasive species, wetlands, water availability, native fisheries and more. Through scientific understanding society will be better prepared for climate change and natural hazards. Saturday, November 7, 2009. Learn more

USGS: Your Resource During Hurricane Season

When hurricanes strike, you can find critical information to help protect lives and property at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Hurricane Website.

More than half of the U.S. population lives within 50 miles of a coast — and coastal populations are increasing. Many of these areas, especially the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, will be in the direct path of hurricanes. USGS News Release

One of the goals of the USGS Coastal and Marine Geology Program is a national assessment of coastal change hazards. Find out more

USGS Florida Science Highlights - 2009

Recent Publications

Scientific Investigations Report 2009–5124 Trommer, J.T., Yobbi, D.K., and McBride, W.S., 2009, Surface-Water and Groundwater Interactions along the Withlacoochee River, West-Central Florida: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2009–5124, 47 p.

Scientific Investigations Report 2009–5176 Irons, K.S., DeLain, S.A., Gittinger, E., Ickes, B.S., Kolar, C.S., Ostendorf, D., Ratcliff, E.N., and Benson, A.J., 2009, Nonnative fishes in the Upper Mississippi River System: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2009–5176, 68 p.

Open-File Report 2008–1348 Osterman, L.E., Kelly, W.S., and Ricardo, J.P., 2009, Benthic Foraminiferal Census Data from Louisiana Continental Shelf Cores, Gulf of Mexico: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2008-1348, 16 p.

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