Privacy Statement

What We Collect and Why

The UGS only collects personal data as allowed by law and to fulfill our core mission of providing timely scientific information about Utah’s geologic environment, resources, and hazards. We may collect information from you when you visit our website, apply for a permit, or interact with us. Depending on the service you are using, this information may include:

• Names and Contact Information: Given names, family names, mailing addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers.
• Identification Numbers: Driver’s license numbers, account numbers, or other unique identifiers.
• Financial Information: Credit/debit card numbers for payments and transaction histories.
• License Information: Details related to employment and volunteer applications or paleontological permits.
• Employment Information: Data related to employment or volunteer applications

How We Collect Website Tracking Data

Like most websites, the UGS uses tracking technology to improve your experience and to help us understand how people use our site. We use tools like Google Analytics to collect digital information, such as your IP address, browser type, and the pages you visit. However, personally identifiable information is not sent to Google Analytics. This data is used to analyze website traffic, troubleshoot technical issues, and enhance our services.

Protection of Personal Data

The UGS works hard to protect your personal data through technical and administrative safeguards. Our employees are trained on privacy and security policies, and we require our service providers to protect your data. We manage our data per the records series detailed here. If a data breach occurs, we will notify you as required by law.

The UGS does not sell your personal data.

Sharing Personal Data

The UGS only shares personal data when allowed by law. We may share data with service providers (like payment processors) and partners (like other government agencies) who are obligated to protect your data. We may also share data if legally required to do so.

Your Privacy Rights

Under Utah law, you have the right to:

• Request access to records that contain your personal data.
• Request a correction if our records contain inaccurate personal data.
• File a complaint with the Utah Data Privacy Ombudsperson at privacyombudsperson@utah.gov.
• For at-risk employees (as defined by Utah Code Subsection 63G-2-303), request that our records containing your personal data be classified as private

Contact Us

If you have questions about this notice or want to exercise your rights, please contact the UGS Chief Administrative Officer for Privacy and Records, Steve Bowman, at stevebowman@utah.gov or (801) 537-3304.