NJDEP - NJGS - First Annual Report of the Geological Survey of the ...

100It might appear almost superfluo_ to enlarge upon thenature and importance of this work, considered wi;_h referenceto the intrinsic value of a topographical map of the State.The great aItention which has been given in this country, duringthe last few years, to the study of'physical gco'graphy, and therapid strides of cducation and i.ntelligcnce, has created a demandfor something morn than mere guide malSS of tbe differentStates of the Union. The National Legislature_ true tothe impulse of the times, has nobly responded to the efforts ofscience--hundreds of thousands of dollam have been freelyexpended in exploring and preparing charts of the seaboard..h. network of triangles c9vers the coast from Maine to Tcxa._--minute soundings have brought to light the hidden rock andtreaehcrous shoal. The capacities of the inlets, rivers , andharbors o[ the Atlantic coast have been determined, and abasis of accurate survey cstablishcd, which the States borderingon the ocean are invited to take advantage of, arid continuethis great work, so that the States adjoining them may take itup and eongnue it on until it meets a corrcsponding cfibrt fromthe Pacific side. Thus giving to the country and to tbe worldwhat England commenced a hundred years ago--what ]h'ancc,Italy, Austria, Norway, and Sweden and Russia, have spentmillions to obtain, viz:_A correct topographical map, fromwhich future generations may learn the nature and extent ofthe vast resoumes, developed and undeveloped, of this favoredland• Under the auspices of an enlightened legislation, theState of New Jersey has been the first in the Union to commencethis undertaking on purely correct principles. Its completionwill be an era in her history, and a lasting monumentof the intelligence of her pcop!e.EGBERT L. VIELE,Ybpographicall'_gi_leer.DR. WILLIAm[ KITCIIELL,State Geologistand Sul_erint_2d_lt.• I_ot: _NEW JERSEY GEOLOGICAL SURVEY