Overview
Title
Agency Information Collection Activities; Hydrography Addressing tool
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The people who look after maps and water places (like rivers and lakes) in the U.S. want to make a new tool to help make maps better. They want to know what other people think about this idea before April, and they're asking people who study maps and science to tell them if they think it's a good idea or if there are any problems.
Summary AI
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), part of the Interior Department, is proposing a new information collection called the Hydrography Addressing Tool. This tool, developed by the National Geospatial Program, will allow users to link their geographic data to the National Hydrography Dataset, enhancing data utility and precision. They are seeking public comments on the necessity, accuracy, and impact of this collection by April 5, 2021. Participation is voluntary, and respondents are primarily scientists and editors from various government and educational institutions.
Abstract
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, we, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) are proposing a new information collection.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), an agency within the Department of the Interior, is seeking public input on a proposed new information collection effort. This initiative, known as the Hydrography Addressing Tool, is designed to allow users to integrate their geographical data with the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD). This connection is aimed at improving the utility and precision of geographic data. The USGS is particularly interested in receiving comments on the necessity, accuracy, and burden of this new information collection process by April 5, 2021. The targeted respondents are scientists and editors from various governmental and educational bodies, and participation is voluntary.
Key Concerns and Issues
One significant concern arising from the document is the lack of detailed information regarding the potential costs involved for users in making their geospatial data available. There is an implicit assumption that users will have the capacity to provide their data as a web feature service, but the document does not clarify what specific requirements or costs could be involved in this process. This lack of clarity could lead to hesitancy or barriers for users wanting to engage with the tool.
Additionally, there is a noticeable absence of discussion regarding data privacy and security. Users must register and provide organizational contact information which may be visible to other users with editing privileges. The potential visibility of user profiles without explicit data protection measures may raise privacy concerns. Stakeholders who are wary of data exposure could be discouraged from participating.
Furthermore, while the USGS asks for public comments on whether the information will be processed in a timely manner, the document does not specify how this aspect will be evaluated. Without clear metrics or measures for timely information processing, stakeholders might find it difficult to provide informed feedback on this point.
Public Impact
The Hydrography Addressing Tool could greatly enhance the precision and utility of geographic datasets, which is a positive development for those relying on accurate hydrographic data. The general public, particularly those residing in areas affected by water bodies, could indirectly benefit from more precise and accessible hydrographic data as it supports better environmental management and planning. Nevertheless, the burden on respondents, especially in making their data compatible with the USGS requirements, might limit who can effectively engage with this tool.
Impact on Stakeholders
For scientists and editors within government and educational institutions, the Hydrography Addressing Tool could become a valuable asset. It could streamline their work by providing a robust method for linking and synchronizing their data with the NHD. This, in turn, could enhance research quality and operational efficiency. However, stakeholders with limited resources or technical capacity might struggle with the technical requirements imposed by the tool, potentially hindering broad participation.
In summary, while the Hydrography Addressing Tool has the potential to significantly enhance hydrographic data integration and usage, there are areas in need of further clarification, such as cost implications, privacy concerns, and evaluation criteria for timely data processing. Addressing these concerns could help ensure a more inclusive and secure engagement from all potential participants.
Issues
• The document does not provide specific details or data about the estimated costs involved in the development and maintenance of the Hydrography Addressing Tool, which could help in understanding the potential for wasteful spending.
• The document mentions that users must make their geospatial data available as a web feature service, but does not clarify what the requirements or potential costs involved for the users might be.
• The language used in describing the collection and processing of information could be simplified, especially around the technical aspects of how the HydroAdd Tool will be utilized and its features.
• There is no mention of data privacy or security concerns for the information users provide during registration, which could be an issue given the visibility of user profiles for all editing privilege holders.
• The document doesn't specify measures or metrics to assess whether the collection of information is being processed and used in a timely manner, which is one of the areas on which they are soliciting public comments.