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FRAMEWORK FOR THE STUDY 8 changes present new opportunities and challenges that need to be reflected in the planning elements. CHARGE TO THE PANEL The USGS requested that the National Research Council (NRC) evaluate the Plan and recommend improvements. The charge to the NRC consists of two separate objectives, each with subordinate questions: (1) Evaluate the Plan of the Mineral Resource Surveys Program in terms of the nation's long-term needs for minerals research and information, the completeness and balance of the program, and the scientific significance, credibility, and relevance of the overall program. ⢠Does the Plan address the nation's needs in mineral resources, both present-day and long-term? ⢠What are the appropriate roles and responsibilities, and who are the appropriate customers for the USGS MRSP? ⢠Does the USGS MRSP duplicate the activities of other federal programs with responsibilities related to mineral resources? ⢠Are the program priorities, products, and audience appropriate to the goals and objectives of the Plan? ⢠Are the level, scope, and balance of research in the Plan sufficient to provide a scientific basis for informed decision-making and to build a scientific foundation for the future? (2) Provide recommendations as to how the Plan could be modified to improve its effectiveness in meeting the long-term needs of the nation. ⢠What are future research needs, activities, and opportunities? ⢠What criteria should be established to evaluate the appropriateness and priority of suggested MRSP activities? ⢠What areas of scientific expertise will be needed by the MRSP to effectively respond to future issues?
