MINERALS OF THE UNITED STATES — PEHRSON 



193 



development of synthetic fuels if our domestic petroleum reserves fail. 

 As with iron ore, large-scale dependence on foreign sources for such 

 a strategic commodity is objectionable from the standpoint of national 

 defense. Insurance against shortages in future emergencies could 

 be provided by setting aside proved oil fields as a national petroleum 

 reserve. The minimum requirement in the event of a decline in do- 

 mestic oil production is the establishment and maintenance of a syn- 

 thetic fuel industry of sufficient size to provide a nucleus of proved 



V 



-^F- 



.1913-1919 \ 





Figuee 9. — Comparison of mine production and prices of copper, lead, and zinc 

 in the United States during World War I and World War II. 



technology and experienced personnel which could be expanded in an 

 emergency. Congress has taken the initial step in this direction by 

 authorizing the Bureau of Mines to establish large demonstration 

 plants for the production of synthetic liquid fuels. 



Our position in petroleum may be summarized as uncertain with 

 moderate dependence on imports a distinct possibility in the near 

 future. This need not be regarded as threatening to the national 

 security because feasible measures can be taken to provide against 

 future shortages in time of war. 



Copper, lead, and zinc occupy a significant position among the 

 minerals of secondary importance to the basic national economy. The 

 United States has had virtual self-sufficiency in these metals for many 

 years. However, our resources were unequal to the demands of this 

 war and large imports have been required in recent years. Figure 9 



