WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In honor of their long-term support for the scientific programs and personnel of the United States Geological Survey (USGS), Representatives Ken Calvert (R-CA) and Peter DeFazio (D-OR) have been selected to receive the 2013 USGS Coalition's Leadership Award. The award will be presented during the Coalition's annual reception, where USGS personnel and their partners will discuss the vital research the agency conducts and how it contributes to improved public safety, wise environmental management, and the general prosperity of the nation.

What:  USGS Coalition Reception Honoring Representatives Calvert and DeFazio

When:  Tuesday, 17 September 2013, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Where:  Rayburn Foyer, Rayburn House Office Building

"We are pleased to recognize Representatives Calvert and DeFazio for their efforts to champion the scientific programs of the United States Geological Survey. Their leadership in Congress has helped increase awareness of the USGS," stated Dr. Robert Gropp, chair of the USGS Coalition and director of public policy at the American Institute of Biological Sciences. "Representatives Calvert and DeFazio clearly understand that we all benefit every day from USGS science. The agency's research and information contribute to economic growth, improve public health and safety, and enhance our ability to smartly manage our natural resources."

Congressman Calvert is serving his eleventh term in the U.S. House of Representatives and represents Southern California's 42nd Congressional District. He serves on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, which oversees funding for the USGS and other Department of Interior programs. As a member of the subcommittee, Calvert plays an important role in ensuring that the USGS has the resources it needs to provide the department and the nation with the scientific information required to make informed decisions. In addition, he focuses on creating long-term solutions for energy and water problems, both to California and the nation.

"I am honored to receive the USGS Coalition Leadership Award. The USGS continues to play an important role in providing the science and data used by natural disaster response organizations and other resource agencies," stated Congressman Calvert.

Representative DeFazio is serving his fourteenth term in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Oregon's 4^th Congressional District. He serves as chairman on the House Natural Resources Committee, which has jurisdiction over the USGS. DeFazio is committed to the responsible management of our nation's natural resources and has been an outspoken voice for sustainable practices and economic security. In 2013, DeFazio urged House appropriators to support the Department of Interior Climate Science Centers, which provide fundamental scientific information, tools, and techniques for resource managers and other interested parties to anticipate, monitor, and adapt to climate change impacts.

"I am pleased to support the USGS and the work it does to provide reliable scientific data to increase our understanding of the natural environment and how to protect it," declared Congressman DeFazio. "I am proud to accept this award, and as Ranking Member of the Natural Resources Committee, I will continue to further USGS's mission to promote sound science for Oregon and for the Nation."

Members of the news media interested in attending the reception or receiving additional information about the USGS Coalition should contact Joan Buhrman at jbuhrman@agu.org or 202-777-7509.

The USGS Coalition is an alliance of over 70 organizations united by a commitment to the continued vitality of the United States Geological Survey and its ability to provide critical data and services to the nation. The Coalition supports increased federal investment in USGS programs that underpin responsible natural resource stewardship, improve resilience to natural and human-induced hazards, and contribute to the long-term health, security, and prosperity of the nation. More information at: www.usgscoalition.org.

SOURCE USGS Coalition