Maryland Geological Survey

The Maryland Geological Survey operates under provisions of Title 2 of the Natural Resources Code. Its mission is primarily scientific-investigative, with authorization to conduct topographic, geologic, hydrographic, and geophysical surveys; to prepare topographic, geologic, and other types of maps to meet specific needs; to prepare reports on the extent and character of the geology, minerals, and water resources of the State; and to engage in, sponsor, and coordinate archeological research in Maryland.

Since 1972, the Maryland Geological Survey has carried out its mission through four programs. The General Direction Program is responsible for budgetary and fiscal matters, personnel, publications office, general office management, and overall supervision of the Survey's three scientific programs: Hydrogeology and Hydrology, Environmental Geology and Mineral Resources, and Coastal and Estuarine Geology.

Some projects of the Hydrogeology and Hydrology Program are generally carried out under the auspices of the U.S. Geological Survey-Maryland Geological Survey Cooperative Agreement. Through this agreement funds budgeted by the State and participating intrastate agencies are generally matched by the Federal government. These co-ops have been in effect since 1943 for ground-water studies and since 1924 for surface-water studies. Applied research projects of this type are often supported through partnerships with County or State agencies.

The Environmental Geology and Mineral Resources Program encompasses areas of geological investigations; geologic mapping; environmental geology applications; mapping of present and potential mineral resources; and the general dissemination of earth-science information about Maryland. Public outreach and earth-science education are also important functions of the Earth Science Information Center. Studies such as these provide the basic framework for outlining and managing the land and mineral resources of the State, and generate the geologic information necessary for making wise land-use decisions.

Having grown out of the shore erosion program initiated in 1963, the Coastal and Estuarine Geology Program evolved faster than any other program of the Survey. Through the early 1970's, the Program was devoted almost exclusively to measuring shoreline erosion and to providing technical assistance to property owners experiencing shore erosion problems. In the mid-1970's, the Chesapeake Bay Earth Science Study focused on conducting the first comprehensive overview of the physical, chemical, and biological processes affecting the sediments on the Bay bottom. From 1978 through 1981, the Program participated in an EPA Chesapeake Bay Study, which promoted growth of the program and led to continued funding by the State.