Development and Implementation of the National Geographic Names Database

Abstract

AbstractIn response to an acknowledged need and growing demand for a relatively complete list of geographic names, numerous attempts were made by governmental agencies and private concerns to develop a reliable, digital geographic names database that would include basic locative and description information for each name. Because of the scope and nature of the project, most users looked to the federal government to develop and maintain such a database. The U. S. Geological Survey, which is responsible for the National Mapping Program and related domestic geographic names activities, agreed to undertake the task of designing, developing and implementing what has become the nation's official automated geographic names repository.