About the CGS

Inset panel image of an office building with rocks out front and hills in background. Moly Building, Colorado School of Mines campus – location of the Colorado Geological Survey office. Photo credit: Larry Scott (CGS), edited by Emily Perman (CGS) — Moly Building, Colorado School of Mines campus – location of the Colorado Geological Survey office. Photo credit: Larry Scott (CGS), edited by Emily Perman (CGS)

Our Mission

To reduce the impact of geologic hazards on Colorado’s citizens, promote responsible economic development of mineral and energy resources, provide geologic insight into water resources, and offer sound geologic advice and information to diverse constituencies.

Vision

Protect public safety and enhance the economy of Colorado.

Goals

– Help reduce the impact of geologic hazards on the citizens of Colorado
– Promote responsible economic development of mineral and energy resources
– Provide geologic insight into water resources
– Provide geologic advice and information to a variety of constituencies

By providing sound information and new knowledge, the CGS contributes to economic growth and improvement in the quality of life for the citizens of the state.

Historic photo of mill built into the side of a cliff, surrounded by railroad tracks. The Sunnyside mill, now abandoned, Eureka, Colorado, September 1940. Photo credit: Russell Lee for the Farm Security Administration. http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/fsa.8b26331 — The Sunnyside mill, now abandoned, Eureka, Colorado, September 1940. Photo credit: Russell Lee for the Farm Security Administration. http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/fsa.8b26331

Survey History

Until 1907, Colorado had no state geological survey, but a series of geologists held the position of Territorial Geologist, a part-time unpaid position. The CGS was established by the Legislature in 1907, along with the position of State Geologist who was also the Director of the survey.

Statutory Framework

Following is an overview of natural and geologic hazards, as legally defined in Colorado, and a description of the role of the CGS in conducting land-use reviews and assisting local governments in making land-use decisions.

Spread of recent hard copies of CGS publications. Photo credit: Matt Morgan (CGS).

Latest Publications

CGS staff members make regular contributions to the greater body of scientific literature and are active with numerous state, regional, and national professional organizations including the GSA, AGU, ASCE, AEG, SEG, and more. Most publications are available for instant free download.