Introduction The Arizona Geological Survey (AZGS) helps protect lives and property from geologic risks and contributes to the discovery and characterization of natural resources for their wise use towards economic development. History The Arizona Geological Survey began as the Office of the Territorial Geologist (1883-1912). The Office was integrated with the University of Arizona Bureau of Mines (1893-1915) and subsequently became known as the Arizona Bureau of Mines (1915-1977) within the University of Arizona. The Legislature, in 1977, created the Bureau of Geology and Mineral Technology with a Geological Survey Branch to replace the Arizona Bureau of Mines. In 1987, the Legislature reshaped the Geological Survey Branch into the Arizona Geological Survey, and removed it from administration by the University to become an independent state agency. As an independent agency, the mission of the AZGS shifted from teaching and research to applied geology and public service for the state.