ACTIVITIES 47 



vey, for example, has studied the causes of the entrance of 

 water into oil-producing sands, which has occurred on a large 

 scale in certain oil fields, especially in California, with the 

 result that large quantities of oil can never be extracted, and 

 the Bureau of Mines has studied methods of remedying the 

 evil and engineering devices for conserving the oil. In these 

 joint studies the field to be covered by each bureau is clearly 

 outlined and the work is carried out in a spirit of coopera- 

 tion. 



In addition to the investigations designed to develop the 

 theory of the occurrence of some particular mineral, the Sur- 

 vey continuously prosecutes studies and investigations de- 

 signed to develop general geologic theory. The purpose held 

 in view by the Survey in studies and investigations of this 

 kind was thus clearly stated by Major Powell in his testimony 

 before the joint congressional commission of 1885-86. 7 



There are many investigations that may not at first seem 

 to lead to economic results, but which ultimately and indi- 

 rectly are of importance even for economic purposes. The 

 scientific man, especially the geologist, for reasons which I 

 have heretofore set forth, has to do with a vast complexity of 

 problems. To select a part of these problems and work upon 

 them may not lead to substantial results when other problems 

 are neglected that have relation to the first. The whole body 

 of research in geology has a very important practical value, 

 because geologic investigation reveals the wealth buried be- 

 neath the surface of the earth. Sound geologic conclusions* 

 cannot be reached by following a few narrow lines of inves- 

 tigation, but all such lines of research must be followed that 

 each may shed light upon the other. Unless this principle is 

 fully recognized, a geologic survey might lead to conclusions 

 of no value to the people at large, or conclusions might be 

 reached so erroneous as to be misleading. It therefore often 

 happens that in determining to inaugurate investigations in 

 a particular line the one question asked is, "Are we likely 

 thereby to discover facts that will shed light upon the general 



7 Testimony before Joint Commission, 1885-86, Senate Misc. Decs., 

 49th Congress, 1st Session, Vol. 4, p. 700. 



