It encourages the considered management and utilization of the state's mineral, fossil-fuel, and water resources with attention to the potential environmental issues of that activity.

The agency quickly discovered that various precious metal mining promotions were without merit and when those findings were published, enraged operators and investors demanded Branner’s dismissal.

Staff members provide technical assistance on earthquake, environmental, geologic mapping, GIS, waste management, and water quality issues.

[4] The AGS employs a team of geologists who conduct geologic mapping that is provided to government offices and the public in paper and on digital media.

It provides presentations and field trips to universities and groups who are interested in the geology, natural history, and public recreation areas of the state.