July 11, 1997
Vol. 1, No. 16
New law provides easy distribution of geologic information
A new Pennsylvania law effectively removes the barriers to providing access to out-of-print information about the geology of Pennsylvania.
Act 39 of 1997 removes the statutory copyright requirement on all publications produced by DCNR's Bureau of Topographic and Geologic Survey, also known as the Pennsylvania Geological Survey. The removal of the copyright restriction permits the copying and distribution of the Survey's publications without permission.
"The maps and reports produced by the Survey provide a valuable service to the agriculture, forestry, mining, metallurgical, and tourism industries in Pennsylvania," said Dr. Donald Hoskins, director of the Pennsylvania Geological Survey. "Unfortunately, many of these valuable publications were out of print and unavailable. But now, without the copyright restrictions, the private sector will be able to produce and market these maps as well, increasing access for those who use them."
The Survey has produced more than 900 maps and reports on geologic hazards, including areas susceptible to landslides and sinkholes; locations of coal resources in Pennsylvania; the quantity and quality of groundwater resources; nonfuel mineral resources; subsurface geology such as natural gas and petroleum resources; and locations of groundwater wells.
The topographic and geologic legislation was sponsored by Rep. Carole A. Rubley (R-Chester). It takes effect immediately.
Persons seeking more information may contact the Pennsylvania Geological Survey, P.O. Box 8453, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8453; (717) 787-2169; or check out the Survey on DCNR's web site at http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us.
| E-mail | DCNR Home | Search |