USGS National Center

Hidden in plain sight, the USGS National Center whispers tales of our planet. The USGS National Center, officially known as the John Wesley Powell Federal Building, isn’t just another office building. It’s the nerve center of the United States Geological Survey. Here, in Reston, Virginia, the USGS has resided since 1974, a far cry from its humble beginnings in 1879 near the Patent Office in Washington D.C. The USGS National Center stands as a testament to the agency’s growth and importance. This sprawling complex, over one million square feet and stretching an impressive 1,200 feet long, houses not only administrative offices, but also vital laboratories and a map reproduction area. The USGS National Center’s history is a journey in itself. From the bustling streets of D.C. to the tranquil setting of Reston, the USGS occupied various locations, including the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building and the Hooe Iron Building. It even shared space in the Main Interior Building before finally settling into its current home. The construction of the USGS National Center is a story of foresight and collaboration. Initially proposed in 1959, the project faced delays before finally receiving Congressional approval in 1962. The chosen site, a wooded area near Reston, was carefully selected after extensive studies. The developers of Reston even gifted 50 acres of land for the project. Construction began in 1971, and three years later, the USGS National Center opened its doors. The building was dedicated to John Wesley Powell, a Civil War veteran, geologist, and the second director of the USGS. Interestingly, Powell himself had envisioned a new USGS building years earlier, near the Smithsonian, but his dream finally materialized in Reston. In 2020, the USGS National Center earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places, solidifying its legacy. Today, the USGS National Center continues its vital work, mapping our nation, studying our resources, and preparing for natural hazards.