There are many issues associated with the development and sustainability of a network of data sites and databases hosted by academic-based groups. Some of these are technical, most are nontechnical issues. These academic institutions have always had the dual missions of conducting research on geothermal systems while educating the next generation of geothermal professionals and researchers. Now, a third role is emerging, that of data stewardship as it applies not only to research and education, but also: 1) as a tool for industry as they push forward with delineating and producing geothermal resources, 2) for state and federal agencies to help them meet their missions and mandates, and 3) as a tool to inform the public on the importance of geothermal energy