U.S. Geological Survey - Ecosystems Ecosystems, habitats, and
species’ ranges existed long before cartographers drew borders
on political maps. There are many migratory species that spend
part of their lives in several to many countries. And all over
the world, there are transboundary natural resource management
issues that can only be successfully addressed by mutual
cooperation between nations. The International Program Office of
USGS works with Ecosystems Mission Area scientists to find ways
of facilitating partnerships with governments, NGOs,
universities, and individuals in other countries to conduct
research with mutual benefits to both the partner country and
the United States. Such partnerships enhance the capacity to
improve the science itself, while at the same time producing the
less tangible but equally important benefit of science
diplomacy. Moreover, international work by USGS helps the
country fulfill treaty obligations with respect to wetlands,
endangered species, marine pollution and boundary