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GEOPHYSICS: C. F. M'ARVIN 
Proc. N. a. S. 
than the development on the scientific or pure theory side of the problem. 
As a result, meteorologists responsible for the practical applications to 
human welfare are at a distinct disadvantage on account of the imperfect 
and incomplete theoretical development of the science. 
The United States was distinctly the pioneer among all nations in 
officially and formally creating a meteorological service. This was done 
by a joint resolution of Congress in 1870, which provided that advices, 
warnings and forecasts concerning future weather conditions should be 
prepared and issued for the benefit of agriculture, commerce and naviga- 
tion. 
The greatest achievement of the Weather Bureau is doubtless that of 
creating the present organization of a service of applied meteorology 
from the nucleus resulting from this early legislation. 
Taking the U. S. Weather Bureau as a prominent example of a well- 
developed, thoroughly organized agency for the application of the principles 
of meteorology to the welfare of man, it seems appropriate to outline 
below, in the briefest possible manner, the principal activities and sub- 
divisions through which this public service is rendered. 
THE WEATHER BUREAU 
A Daily Service of the Science of Meteorology Applied to Human Welfare. 
— When Congress created the Weather Service in 1870, the primary ob- 
ject was to benefit and protect navigation on the Great Lakes and Atlantic 
coast by advance warnings of dangerous storms. Later the issue of flood 
warnings was added to its duties. To-day there is scarcely any important 
industry or activity of the nation which is not to a greater or less extent 
influenced by weather conditions, and therefore needs the advices, in- 
formation and economic benefits which flow from the full and efficient 
administration of all its duties. 
These benefits are of great variety and the information, advices and 
warnings of the Weather Bureau serve the immediate needs of practically 
every interest and industry of the nation. Great atmospheric disturb- 
ances visit with relative frequency one section of the country or another. 
Violent storms, cold waves, frosts, freezes, hurricanes, floods, heavy snows, 
and the like, repeatedly cause destruction of property, such as shipping 
on the Great Lakes and coastal waters of the nation, and, in recent times, 
the lives and property engaged in aerial navigation. Crops and farms in 
flooded districts are laid waste. Lambs, livestock, and meat animals in 
the stock ranges of the west are killed by blizzards and cold waves. Orch- 
ard crops, truck gardens, and vineyards everywhere are damaged by 
frosts and freezes. By forecasts and warnings, issued and disseminated 
well in advance, great economic benefits and saving accrue to the nation 
through the precautionary measures which can be taken on timely ad- 
