![](https://web.archive.org/web/20110829042305im_/http://dels.nas.edu/resources/static-assets/besr/images/besr-geodetic.png)
New report recommends upgrading of U.S. geodetic infrastructure and creation of a federal geodetic service.
![](https://web.archive.org/web/20110829042305im_/http://dels.nas.edu/resources/static-assets/besr/images/besr-coalbed.png)
The extraction of methane (natural gas) trapped deep in some coal beds is a common practice, especially in Western States, but carries with it the issue of what to do with the water that must be pumped out to release the methane.
![](https://web.archive.org/web/20110829042305im_/http://dels.nas.edu/resources/static-assets/besr/images/UrbanGrowthQatar.png)
In this new report, eleven strategic directions are outlined to focus research and leverage new technologies to harness the potential that the geographical sciences offer.
![](https://web.archive.org/web/20110829042305im_/http://dels.nas.edu/resources/static-assets/besr/images/besr_evolution.png)
A new report, Understanding Climate's Influence on Human Evolution, was highlighted at a joint event with the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, which just opened a new exhibition devoted to human evolution.
![](https://web.archive.org/web/20110829042305im_/http://dels.nas.edu/resources/static-assets/besr/images/besr_methanehydrate.png)
Methane hydrate, a resource found in underground and under-seafloor deposits, could substantially augment U.S. natural gas supplies. Challenges to realizing that potential are explored in a report released in February.
![](https://web.archive.org/web/20110829042305im_/http://dels.nas.edu/resources/static-assets/besr/images/besr_landscapes.png)
Chemical, physical, biotic, and human processes constantly reshape Earth's surface from particles to continents. Based on the report Landscapes on the Edge: a new video describes research needs to understand earth surface processes.