Washington Paper - Hydrographic Investigations of the U. S. Geological Survey in their Relation to Mining

In 1888 the United States Geological Survey began a systematic examination of the water-resources of the West, comparable in character and scope to the study of the deposits of ores or coal. As experience was acquired, the surveys were extended to the East, until now they embrace representative localities in all parts of the United States. The object to be attained is to note and record the distribution of water-supply, and to learn, as far as practicable, the laws governing its fluctuations.