If you have ever used a topographic map to find your way around a remote part of the country, or if you've ever noticed how geographic names reflect the history of the land and the culture of its inhabitants, you’ll appreciate the pioneering work of Henry Gannett.  Gannett, an early American geographer, is often considered to be the father of topographic mapping in the United States.

To commemorate Gannett’s varied contributions to and passions for our nation's geography and cartography, the U.S. Geological Survey is accepting nominations for the 2013 Henry Gannett Award.

Eligibility: Any individual or group of individuals working as a team, contractors, citizen groups, youth, and private sector entities, non-government organizations, and representatives of Federal, State, local and tribal governments whose contributions advance the USGS’ National Geospatial Program (NGP) objectives and programs are eligible to receive this award. This award may be given to any combination of entities that meet the award criteria.

Nomination Process: Each nomination package will be submitted in electronic form through the award website and include justification and related nomination information. Nominations are due February 26, 2013. The award will be presented at The National Map Users Conference and Community for Data Integration Workshop and Training during an award ceremony in May 2013.

"This award commemorates the USGS' first Chief Geographer from 1882-1914 and his (Gannett's) tremendous contributions to topographic mapping in the United States," said Mark DeMulder, the Director of the NGP. "This is a unique opportunity to honor significant contributions to an individual or group of individuals that have furthered USGS topographic mapping of the Nation."

For complete award information, nomination guidelines and history about the Gannett awards, visit the USGS Henry Gannett website.