Within the Geologic Division, a number of programs exist to conduct the studies necessary to accomplish these goals. Goals 1 and 2 clearly justify the need for hazards programs (earthquake hazards, volcano hazards, landslide hazards, and the global seismic network). Minerals and energy resources programs address Goal 3, and the earth systems dynamics program is aimed at Goal 4. The geologic mapping and ecosystems programs address aspects of Goals 5 and 6, and mapping is an important component of studies to address Goal 7, although there is no explicit program to address Goal 7.

The National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program (NCGMP) and the CMGP stand out as not being explicitly tied to a GD science goal. The NCGMP clearly provides the basic framework for almost all geological studies, and hence it encompasses mapping at a variety of spatial and temporal scales to address many of the science goals. The CMGP is focused on the marine and Great Lakes geographic regions, hence the studies that are conducted under its auspices span all GD science goals.

In 1994, the USGS implemented a five-year CMGP that outlined proposed studies to understand the coastal and offshore areas of the United States. This plan was modified in 1997 to take advantage of new opportunities and issues and to account for changes in budgets and staffing.

The stated mission of the CMGP of the USGS is to "provide the nation with