The preliminary organization of the Geological and Mineralogical Survey of Texas was effected, as is stated in the First Report of Progress, by the appointment of W. H. Streeruwitz, W. F. Cummins, and R. A. F. Penrose, Jr., Geologists, and J. H. Herndon, Chemist, and the issuance of Circular No. 2, embodying the proposed basis of operations. This reads:

"The work will be particularly directed: 1st, to a search for ores, minerals, oils, coals, clays, and other materials possessing a commercial value, and the determination of the question, whenever possible, whether they exist in sufficient quantities, and under suitable conditions and surroundings, to make it reasonably certain that it will be profitable to work them; 2nd, to an investigation of the geologic formation and topography of the country, with a view to determining the probability of obtaining artesian water, and the feasibility of irrigating from such wells or from streams, shallow wells, or tanks where necessary; 3rd, to the determination of the adaptability of soils to certain crops, and how their fertility can be increased by the use of materials nearest at hand; and 4th, to the search for and development of useful articles as yet not fully known.

"The collection of fossils and study of geologic strata, though a necessary concomitant, will be made (as far as is consistent with obtaining a correct knowledge of their character and influences) subordinate and subsidiary to the economic features of the survey."

Texas Geological and Mineralogical Survey. First Report of Progress. Austin, 1889. p. 7.