Geographic Names Information System facts for kids

The logo of the United States Geological Survey

The Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) is a huge database. It holds names and locations for over two million places in the United States of America and its territories. These places include natural features like mountains and rivers, and human-made ones like towns, schools, and parks.

GNIS was created by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the United States Board on Geographic Names (BGN). Their goal was to make sure everyone uses the same official names for places. This helps avoid confusion and makes maps and information more accurate.

What is GNIS?

The Geographic Names Information System, or GNIS, is like a giant digital dictionary for place names. It lists every official name for geographic features across the U.S. and its territories. This includes everything from small streams to large cities.

Types of Features in GNIS

GNIS organizes places into different types. These are called "features."

• Physical features are natural parts of the Earth. Examples include:
  • Mountains and hills
  • Rivers, lakes, and streams
  • Valleys and plains
• Cultural features are things created or changed by people. Examples include:
  • Cities, towns, and villages
  • Schools and hospitals
  • Roads and bridges
  • Parks and historical sites

Each entry in GNIS includes the official name of the place. It also has its exact location using latitude and longitude coordinates.

Why is GNIS Important?

GNIS plays a very important role in how we use and understand geographic information. It helps make sure that everyone refers to the same place with the same name.

Standardizing Place Names

Imagine if different maps used different names for the same river. It would be very confusing! GNIS solves this problem by providing one official name for each feature. This is called "standardization."

• It helps mapmakers create clear and consistent maps.
• It makes it easier for emergency services to find locations quickly.
• It supports scientific research and environmental studies.
• It helps people communicate clearly about places.

Who Uses GNIS?

Many different groups and people use the GNIS database.

• Government agencies use it for planning, mapping, and managing resources.
• Scientists and researchers use it for studies about geography and the environment.
• Cartographers (mapmakers) rely on it to create accurate maps.
• Historians use it to track changes in place names over time.
• The public can also access GNIS to find information about places.

How GNIS Works

The United States Board on Geographic Names (BGN) is in charge of approving new names or changes to existing names. The BGN is a federal body that makes decisions on geographic names for the U.S. government.

The Naming Process

When a new place needs a name, or an existing name needs to be changed, a process is followed.

• People or groups can suggest names to the BGN.
• The BGN reviews these suggestions carefully.
• They consider history, local traditions, and how the name might be used.
• Once a name is approved, it is added to the GNIS database.

This process ensures that names are official and widely accepted. It helps keep the database accurate and reliable.