What is the Basis of the SMGBs Authority?
The board operates within the Department of Conservation, and is granted certain autonomous responsibilities and obligations under several acts. The board’s general authority is granted under Public Resources Code (PRC) Sections 660-678. Specifically, PRC Section 662(b) requires all board members to “represent the general public interest”. The board serves as a regulatory, policy and appeals body representing the state’s interest in geology, geologic and seismologic hazards, conservation of mineral resources, and reclamation of lands following surface mining activities.
