The composition of muds from Columbus Marsh, Nevada

The investigation of the dry lake of Columbus Marsh, in Nevada, which had for its economic motive the discovery of potash, was continued by the United States Geological Survey during the summer of 1913 under the supervision of Hoyt S. Gale. The work done included the drilling of a shallow well near the old well 400 and the collection of a set of surface samples of muds from the marsh. This exploration, together with the chemical investigation of the samples thus collected, has furnished further data concerning the character of the mud flat and thrown additional light on the conditions there.

The writer was 'associated with Mr. Gale during his study of this region and the field observations here recorded were made jointly and are results of mutual discussion. The accompanying map (fig. 1) is based on a plane-table survey made by Mr. Gale, and for this and other assistance the writer wishes to express due acknowledgment.