The Michigan geological survey shall continue to make a thorough geological survey of this state, which may include a determination of the succession and arrangement, thickness, and position of all strata and rocks; their mineral character and contents and their economical uses; an investigation of soils and subsoils and the determination of their character and agricultural adaptation; and the investigation of all deposits of brines, coal, marl, clay, gypsum, lime, petroleum, natural gas, metals and metallic ores, building stone, marble, gritstone, materials for mortar and cement, mineral paint, and all other geological productions or features in this state capable of being converted to the uses of humans.