The US Geological Survey’s Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI) is a nationwide program launched in 2019 to modernize mapping of the Nation’s surface and subsurface, and this project assesses how its data are used and valued across government, academic, industry, and tribal stakeholders. Pinyon is leading the economic valuation of Earth MRI by combining a literature review with qualitative interviews, including benchmarking against mature government-sponsored, pre-competitive geoscience programs in Australia, Canada, Spain, and Chile to assess potential long-term returns on investment. Our economists analyzed 18 interviews with USGS staff, state geological surveys (including Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, and New Mexico), and mineral exploration and mining professionals to identify qualitative benefits such as exploration efficiency gains, reduced barriers to entry for junior companies, and economic stimulus from survey spending.
