Department of Natural Resources. Geological Survey

Entity: 426
Entity Type: State Government

Abstract

In 1931, the Utah Geological and Mineralogical Survey was created by the legislature with a non-salaried Advisory Board appointed by the Governor. However, no funds were appropriated to operate the survey and thus it became a name only, with no assigned personnel. In 1941, the state government was reorganized and the Utah Geological and Mineralogical Survey was placed in the newly created Utah State Department of Publicity and Industrial Development. On July 1, 1949 the agency was transferred to the State School of Mines and Mineral Industries of the University of Utah. Effective July 1, 1973, the agency was transferred to the Department of Natural Resources. The Utah Geological Survey provides timely scientific information about Utah's geologic environment, resources and hazards.

Biography/History Notes

Purpose: "Investigate Utah's geological resources, identify geological hazards, map the state's geology, and provide assistance to local and state agencies." (From "Capitol Connections" newsletter, volume 1, issue 6, October 1993, page 4.) "The Utah Geological and Mineral Survey neither regulates industry nor manages state-owned lands. Rather, its purpose is to survey, research, and map Utah's geological formations, and to assist in the development of geological resources. Its duties include collecting and analyzing scientific data, inventorying geological reports, and publishing geological maps. It is directed to assist local and state agencies in their planning, zoning and building regulation functions, and to cooperate with other groups in areas of mutual concern." (From "State and Local Government in Utah," 1992 ed., page. 183.)

"The administrative head of the survey is the director who is designated as the state geologist. The director must be a graduate of a recognized university and must have demonstrated competency in the science of geology and in administration. The director administers the survey for the benefit of the public.?"Policy is set by a seven-member board appointed by the governor with the consent of the Senate. According to Utah law, board members are chosen with regard to technical and professional qualifications." (From "State and Local Government in Utah," 1992 ed., page 183.)

The Utah Geological and Mineral Survey operates as a division within the Department of Natural Resources.

Hierarchy

Department of Natural Resources
Geological Survey