a geologic survey of delaware was originally authorized in 1837 for a period of four years under the direction of james c. booth, state geologist. a permanent state geological survey was established by the delaware general assembly in 1951 and is funded by direct state appropriation. the 1951 statute founding the survey contains its fundamental charges: study the geology of delaware, investigate mineral and water resources, advise state government, and provide the results of its studies to the citizens and agencies of delaware through publication and consultation. additional responsibilities have been assigned over the years as the varied applications of the survey’s basic mission were recognized: notable among these are spatial data coordination, direct support for emergency planning, response, and recovery, and involvement in water-supply planning.