Cosmic Rays in the Galaxy and Their Implications for VLF Radio Astronomy

New observations of the local galactic cosmic ray (GCR) density and of the distribution of GCR nuclei in the Galaxy are described together with the results of modeling of the GCR radial profiles and the application of these results. Special attention is given to the studies of energetic cosmic rays observable with VLF radio astronomy, emphasizing the importance of higer angular resolution studies in the frequency range 1-30 MHz, with 1-2 deg resolution at 1 MHz. Examples of studies that can benefit from using such resolution include studies of H II regions, the spectral dependence of absorption and emissivity related to SNRs and giant molecular clouds, the emission and absorption related to nearby galaxies and AGN, and the determination of the detailed fine structure of interstellar absorption. In addition, the VLF radio astronomy can be used for studies of all types of energetic particle populations in different galaxies.