Created by an act of Congress in 1879, the USGS provides science for a changing world, which reflects and responds to society’s continuously evolving needs. As the science arm of the Department of the Interior, the USGS brings an array of earth, water, biological, and mapping data and expertise to bear in support of decision-making on environmental, resource, and public safety issues.
The grant program focuses on funding research that improves prediction and assessment of post-wildfire impacts such as changes in water quality and quantity, sedimentation, and debris flows, as well as understanding the recovery process of affected areas. The goal is to advance knowledge and predictive capabilities related to hydrologic burn severity and post-fire recovery processes to assist land and resource managers, and emergency responders in preparing for and responding to wildfires. This opportunity is part of the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) Program, emphasizing partnerships that contribute to research, technical assistance, and education. Only partners of the Chesapeake Watershed CESU are eligible to apply.