Unless the context otherwise requires, the definitions hereinafter set forth shall govern the construction of Division II of this code.

“Department,” in reference to the government of this state, means the Department of Conservation.

“Director” means the Director of Conservation.

“Survey,” in reference to the government of this state, means the California Geological Survey in the Department of Conservation.

“Person” includes any individual, firm, association, corporation, organization, limited liability company, or partnership, or any city, county, district, or the state or any department or agency thereof.

“Minerals” means any naturally occurring chemical element or compound, or groups of elements and compounds, formed from inorganic processes and organic substances, including, but not limited to, coal, peat, and bituminous rock, but excluding geothermal resources, natural gas, and petroleum.

“State Geologist” means the individual holding the office created by Section 677.

“Supervisor of Mine Reclamation” or “supervisor” means the individual directing the Division of Mine Reclamation established pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 607.

“Exploration” or “prospecting” means the search for minerals by geological, geophysical, geochemical or other techniques, including, but not limited to, sampling, assaying, drilling, or any surface or underground works needed to determine the type, extent, or quantity of minerals present.

“Board” means the State Mining and Geology Board.

“Geologic hazard” means a geologic condition that is a potential danger to life and property. Geologic hazards include, but are not limited to, earthquake, landslide, mineral hazards, postfire debris flow, subsidence, coastal and inland erosion, expansive soil, fault displacement, and volcanic eruption.