Category Archives: Surveying

Mechanics, Science, Chemistry, and Surveying

The genesis of modern surveying and geodetic instruments sprang from a convergence of multiple sciences I held the century-old instrument, a compact high-precision optical theodolite, and thought: ‘This has more in common with our present-day instruments than not. And who were the geniuses that engineered and built such things?’  Surveying instruments have been in a...

Tackling the Aerial-to-CAD Bottleneck

Aerial capture is getting easier and faster, but the subsequent step of CAD linework generation is a bottleneck—especially given the present shortage of qualified drafters. AI is stepping in to help. In 2017, the co-founders of what would become AirWorks Solutions Inc. first met and began discussing ideas for a new geospatial venture. Both had...

Boundary by Acquiescence

Legal Boundaries This time around we have a question from a Georgia reader about the doctrine of acquiescence and applying it to an existing fence that does not match the deeded measurements.           Question: In the case of a line of acquiescence with an existing fence that has a history, would I...

Dangerous Dargan and an Old Indian Deed

Sponsored by Xponential With apologies to both the residents of southern Washington County, Maryland, and to the Native Americans; this title reflects an old, somewhat derogatory term for an area, and the title of a sign placed by the Maryland State Roads Commission in that same area. As I was driving along Harper’s Ferry Road...

Three Critical Skills of a Land Surveyor Expert Witness

By Tony Nettleman (Part Two) Serving as an expert witness and testifying in court is enjoyable, fulfilling, and a great supplemental offering within your land surveying practice. While providing these services for the previous 20-plus years, I discovered three critical skills that will aid the surveyor in being the best expert witness they can be. ...

Add a Drone to Survey Fieldwork

Innovative drones offer a fast, accurate option for large-area survey data collection Since the first use of drones for commercial purposes in 2006, the drone industry has rapidly gained momentum and introduced new capabilities to serve a wide range of applications. Surveying and mapping projects pose unique challenges due to the importance of accuracy and...