The U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) was the primary United States Government agency conducting scientific research and disseminating information on the extraction, processing, use, and conservation of mineral resources. Founded on May 16, 1910, through the Organic Act (Public Law 179), USBM's missions ...

The U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) was the primary United States Government agency conducting scientific research and disseminating information on the extraction, processing, use, and conservation of mineral resources. Founded on May 16, 1910, through the Organic Act (Public Law 179), USBM's missions include: * The conduct of research to enhance the safety, health, and environmental impact of mining and processing of minerals and materials. * The collection, analysis, and dissemination of information about mining and processing of more than 100 mineral commodities across the Nation and in more than 185 countries around the world. * Analysis of the impact of proposed mineral-related laws and regulations upon the national interest. * Production, conservation, sale, and distribution of helium for essential government activities. In September 1995, Congress voted to close the Bureau of Mines and to transfer certain functions to other Federal agencies.