3 o THE U. «. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 



2. Geologic surveys in various portions of the United 

 States. 



3. Chemical and physical researches relating to the 

 geology of the United States, including researches with 

 a view of determining geological conditions favorable to 

 the presence of deposits of potash salts. 



4. Investigation of the mineral resources of Alaska. 



5. Preparation of a report on the mineral resources 

 of the United States; 



6. Gaging streams and determining the water supply 

 of the United States, the investigation of underground 

 currents and artesian wells, and the preparation of reports 

 on the best methods of utilizing the water resources. 



7. Discovering, developing, protecting and rendering 

 more accessible springs, streams and water holes on arid 

 public lands of the United States; erecting and maintain- 

 ing monuments and sign boards and providing ready and 

 convenient means by which water may be brought to the 

 earth's surface. 



8. Examination and classification of lands requisite 

 to and suitable for enlarged homesteads, stock-raising 

 homesteads, public watering places and stock driveways 

 as required by the public, land laws. 



The scope of the activities thus authorized is of course de- 

 pendent upon the amount of the appropriation. As will here- 

 after be noted, the act further controls the scope of some spe- 

 cific activities by a special provision regarding the manner of 

 the utilization of the amount appropriated. 



For a clearer presentation the activities of the Survey may 

 be regarded as falling under the following seven heads : 



1. Geologic surveys and investigations. 



2. Compilation of information relative to the mineral 

 industries. 



3. Topographic surveys. 



