Press Releases

State agrees to study geological survey move
Jeffco News
4/1/04

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The Colorado Geological Survey could be relocated to the Colorado School of Mines under a plan proposed by Rep. Ramey Johnson, R-Lakewood.

Johnson and Russell George, executive director of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, have agreed to a study on the possible relocation of the Colorado Geological Survey, which is currently under the supervision of the DNR.

The CGS is responsible for mapping geologic properties within the state, including underground water supplies, landslides and mineral deposits. It has mapped about 20 to 25 percent of the state, officials said.

Johnson sponsored a bill to move the CGS to the School of Mines this legislative session.

“The cooperation and communication that I have had with the new director is creating a more inviting environment to look at all sides of this issue and all possibilities,” Johnson said in a press statement. “Ultimately, I believe we both want the same thing: a geological survey that is as productive as Coloradans deserve.”

Johnson said that other states have successfully moved their geological surveys to universities.

“Information compiled by the National Council of State Legislatures clearly shows that when surveys are moved to university settings, they have become more innovative and entrepreneurial,” she said.

The proposed study will be conducted by an outside contractor to avoid conflict of interest and will be funded by the Colorado School of Mines.

The DNR has been opposed to such a move in the past, George said in the release. However, he said he is willing to look at the move more closely.