The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a scientific agency of the United States government. It is part of the Department of the Interior and is responsible for providing scientific information about the natural resources and natural hazards of the United States. The USGS conducts research and monitoring in a wide range of fields, including geology, hydrology, biology, and geography. The agency also produces topographic maps, develops and maintains a network of monitoring stations, and conducts research on natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and landslides. The USGS was established in 1879 and is headquartered in Reston, Virginia. It has a staff of over 10,000 employees and operates a number of research centers and field offices across the United States.