Managing California's Geologic Resources:

The Role of the California Department of Conservation

The California Department of Conservation oversees the state's geology ranging from mining and mineral extraction to geologic hazards posed by earthquakes and landslides. The state's geological survey, begun in 1880, is one of the oldest in the United States. It tracks the availability of the state's mineral resources -- California typically produces more than $2 billion worth -- and generates data on the impact geologic hazards have on the safety and economic well-being of Californians. The Department's seismic mapping program assists local governments in land-use planning, and it's Strong-Motion Instrumentation Program (SMIP) is a valuable tool in creating earthquake resistant structures. The Department also administers the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) to ensure environmental protection and reclamation of mined land, at the same time assisting cities, counties, state agencies and mine operators in their reclamation planning.