The book investigates the distribution and characteristics of surficial geological deposits across the United States. It draws upon extensive geological surveys and data to provide a comprehensive overview of the materials that form the Earth's surface. The work aims to catalog and describe these deposits, offering insights into their formation processes and geological significance.

This work is recognized as a foundational text in American surficial geology. Its comprehensive scope and detailed descriptions make it an invaluable resource for geologists, geographers, and environmental scientists. The book's systematic approach to cataloging diverse deposit types provides a crucial reference for understanding the geological landscape of the United States. It is likely consulted for its detailed regional data and its contribution to geological mapping.