The geological division has for its objects and duties the following:

(1) A study of the geological formations of the state, with especial reference to their economic products, including coal, oil, gas, ores, fertilizers, building stones, road-making materials, clays, cement materials, sands, soils, forests, mineral and artesian waters, drainage of swamps, streams, and water powers, and other natural resources;

Terms Used In Tennessee Code 11-5-103

  • Lands: includes lands, tenements and hereditaments, and all rights thereto and interests therein, equitable as well as legal. See Tennessee Code 1-3-105
  • State: when applied to the different parts of the United States, includes the District of Columbia and the several territories of the United States. See Tennessee Code 1-3-105
(2) A study of the character, origin, and relations of the soils of the state, with especial reference to their adaptability to particular crops, the maintenance of soil fertility, and the conservation and utilization of supplies of natural fertilizers;
(3) A study of the road-making materials of the state, with reference to their character, distribution, and the best methods of utilizing the same;
(4) A study of the occurrence and availability of underground water supplies;
(5) An investigation of the forests, streams, and water powers of the state, with especial reference to their conservation and development for industrial enterprises;
(6) A study of the swamp and other nontillable lands of the state, with reference to their reclamation for agricultural purposes;
(7) A study of the physical features of the state, with reference to their bearing upon the occupations, physical welfare, and intellectual pursuits of the people;
(8) The preparation, in accordance with the rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the state publications committee, of special reports with necessary illustrations and maps, which shall embrace both general and detailed descriptions of the geology, topography, and natural resources of the state;
(9) The preparation, in accordance with the rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the state publications committee, of special geologic, topographic, and economic maps to illustrate the structure, relief, and natural resources of the state; and
(10) The consideration of such other scientific and economic questions as in the judgment of the commissioner of environment and conservation shall be deemed of value to the people of the state.
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