Geographic Names FAQs
Find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the U.S. Board on Geographic Names (BGN) Domestic Names Committee processes and names data.
What is GNIS?
Frequently asked questions regarding the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS).
Related FAQs
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How do I report an error in the Geographic Names Information System database? How do I report an error in the Geographic Names Information System database?
Please report possible errors in the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) database to the GNIS Manager at tnm_help@usgs.gov. The Names data experts will investigate and validate the data, enter appropriate corrections where needed, and advise you of the results. Learn more: Geographic Names FAQs
What is the difference between "mountain", "hill", and "peak"; "lake" and "pond"; or "river" and "creek?" What is the difference between "mountain", "hill", and "peak"; "lake" and "pond"; or "river" and "creek?"
There are no official definitions for generic terms as applied to geographic features. The Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) utilizes 43 broad categories of feature classes defined solely to facilitate retrieval of entries with similar characteristics. Go to GNIS Domestic Names Feature Classes to see the full list. These categories generally match dictionary definitions, but not always...
How do I find the average elevation of a city, town, county, or other civil division? How do I find the average elevation of a city, town, county, or other civil division?
Average (or mean) elevations for civil divisions are not available from the USGS. You can, however, find the elevation at the center of a civil division using the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS): Go to the GNIS Search Domestic Names. Select "Search Domestic Names" In the Name box, type the city, town, county, etc. name (for example, “Stanley,” “Richmond,” "Madison County") In the...
How can I propose a name change for a natural feature? How can I propose a name change for a natural feature?
Proposals to change the name of a feature within the United States and its territories may be submitted to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names (BGN). However, proposals must include a compelling reason the feature’s name needs to be changed for federal use. Changing an existing name merely to correct or re-establish historical usage should not be a primary reason to change a name. The BGN is...
What constitutes the United States? What are the official definitions? What constitutes the United States? What are the official definitions?
Geographically (and as a general reference), the United States of America includes all areas considered to be under the sovereignty of the United States, but does not include leased areas. On May 14, 1959, the U.S. Board on Geographic Names issued the following definitions, which defined the Continental United States as "the 49 States on the North American Continent and the District of Columbia...
How can I name an unnamed natural feature? How can I name an unnamed natural feature?
Proposals to name an unnamed feature within the United States and its territories may be submitted to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names (BGN). However, proposals must include a compelling reason the feature needs to be named for federal use. The BGN is responsible by law ( 43 USC Ch. 11A) for standardizing geographic names throughout the Federal Government and has developed policies governing...