New Jersey Geological and Water Survey

The NJ Geological Survey is a public service and research agency within the NJ Department of Environmental Protection. Founded in 1835, the NJGS has evolved from a mineral resources and topographic mapping agency to a modern environmental organization that collects and provides geoscience information to government, consultants, industry, environmental groups, and the public.

The mission of the Survey is to map, research, interpret and provide scientific information regarding the state's geology and ground water resources. This information supports the regulatory and planning functions of DEP and other governmental agencies and provides the business community and public with the information necessary to address environmental concerns and make economic decisions.

NJGS geologists produce geologic and thematic maps that are the basis for subsurface and hydrogeologic investigations, as well as key component of land use planning and environmental hazard investigations. NJGS hydrogeologists perform regional and local ground-water resource studies, including the mapping of aquifer recharge and Well Head protection areas using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). NJGS geophysicists, use state-of-the-art geophysical techniques to define subsurface geology, pollutant plumes, and buried material. Because of the State's high population density, mineral exploration is now confined to offshore, where exploration for beach replenishment sand, gravel and metals is ongoing.

Maps and reports are available to the public in printed and digital format through the NJDEP Maps and Publications Office and GIS data is available via electronic transfer from our Digital Geodata Series . A publications price list, which will be kept current through the Web, is available upon request to: DEP Map & Publications Office, Bureau of Revenue, PO 438, Trenton, N.J. 08625-0438. Unpublished information is provided at cost by writing to Karl Muessig, State Geologist, N.J. Geological Survey, PO 427, Trenton, N.J. 08625- 0427. Staff are available to answer your questions 8:00AM-5:00 PM Monday through Friday by calling 609-292-1185.