A city or farmer needs a new water supply. Where can suitable
water-bearing formations be found? A new limestone quarry is considered.
Where are the most suitable limestone deposits? A coal mine is being
planned. How deep must a shaft be sunk to reach the nearest minable coal
and what will the mining conditions be? A land owner has a clay deposit
on his land. What uses can be made of it? A road is to be constructed.
Are sand and gravel or limestone deposits available nearby for
construction materials? A farmer wants to know whether there might be
oil on his property. Are oil-bearing structures present and, if so, at
what depth?
These are typical questions brought to the Illinois State Geological
Survey by the industries and people of Illinois. From its accumulated
store of information and experience, the Survey provides answers. This
storehouse of knowledge is the result of the Survey’s continuous program
of geologic exploration, mapping, research, and organization and
interpretation of data.
The Survey explores and maps the geology and mineral resources of the
state, does research to find new and improved uses for our mineral
resources, and organizes and interprets basic geologic information
gathered from well logs, rock samples, and field studies, putting them
all into usable form.
Such knowledge is shared with the public through publications, maps,
lectures, and personal consultations with industries, drillers,
engineers, land owners, teachers, and others in need of geologic
information.
The discovery of facts about the rich mineral resources of Illinois has,
in effect, only begun, and it is the task of the Geological Survey to
continue to collect and apply new information so that our resources can
be used to the best advantage.