Under the Department of the Interior, a bureau of mining, metallurgy, and mineral technology is formed which is designated as the United States Bureau of Mines. There is a director of the bureau, who is thoroughly equipped for the duties by technical education and experience and is appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Other experts and employees to the bureau are appointed by the Secretary of the Interior, as and when required to carry out the purposes and duties of the bureau in accordance with the appropriations made from time to time by Congress for such purposes.
Duties of United States Bureau of Mines
The duty of the United States Bureau of Mines is to conduct inquiries and scientific and technologic investigations concerning mining. It also looks into the preparation, treatment, and utilization of mineral substances with a view to improve health-conditions, and increasing safety, efficiency, economic development. It is also entrusted with the duty of conserving resources through the prevention of waste in the mining, metallurgical, and other mineral industries and to inquire into the economic conditions affecting these industries; along with the duty to investigate explosives and peat; and on behalf of the Government to investigate the mineral fuels and unfinished mineral products belonging to, or for the use of, the United States.
