The Geological Survey was established in 1974 by the Autonomous Province of Trento to deal with geological, hydrogeological, geotechnical and geomechanical issues. Its main activity consists in providing advises and appraisals to the other Services of the Provincial Administration. This concerns the realisation, computerisation and updating of the geological-hazard map in collaboration with town administrations (this map contains all the territorial geological indications useful for urban-area planning).

The Geological Survey also manages the provincial seismic network and the provincial law for the protection of the geological heritage which controls the public and private collection of minerals and fossils. It realises and supports studies to improve the geological and hydrogeological knowledge of the Trentino Province, drillings are made using its own equipment and through contracts to external firms (this is meant as a support for the other appraisal and study activities).

It is equipped with a laboratory in which tests on soils and rocks are made both for its own studies and for other administrations and professionals.Furthermore, the Geological Survey undertakes monitoring activities and studies of landslides and of unstable areas, high-precision topographic measurements and the management of a permanent GPS station.