Purpose

The N.C. Board on Geographic Names and the U.S. Board on Geographic Names work together to develop official names for use in federal products and for adoption by other non-federal organizations for use in mapping projects and databases. The database that results through this process is known as the Geographic Names Information System. GNIS is a searchable database developed by the U.S. Geological Survey in cooperation with the U.S. BGN, and is acknowledged by the GICC as the official North Carolina names repository.

Many features in North Carolina are unnamed. Locally accepted names are in the GNIS, since the process involves input from people who live in that community. Citizens may submit a request to change the name of a geographic feature in North Carolina to the U.S. BGN (see below).

The charter for the N.C. BGN describes the purpose and membership.

Procedure for Naming or Changing Geographic Placenames

To propose or change the name of a geographic feature, fill out the U.S. BGN's online submittal form. The U.S. BGN will review the proposal and seek input from appropriate local and state agencies, including the N.C. BGN.

The N.C. BGN does not handle street or road names.

List of Features Name Changes

Committee Information

Members

Meetings

View upcoming GICC events

View past GICC events, including associated materials.

Charter

Contacts

Staff Support: David Giordano, N.C. CGIA, 919-754-6585