Geodesy Journal

In Pennsylvania, where landscapes can vary from steep wooded hills to low-lying flood zones, starting a construction project without understanding the land is a risk most builders can’t afford. That’s why many rely on a topographic survey as one of the very first steps in site development.  A topographic survey provides more than just elevation data—it helps builders, engineers, and architects plan projects that meet state and local requirements, avoid construction delays, and protect their investment.   What Is a Topographic Survey?   A topographic survey is a detailed map showing the physical features of a property. It includes:  Natural features – such as hills, valleys, streams, vegetation, and rock formations  Man-made features – like roads, utility lines, fences, existing buildings, and drainage structures  Elevation data – shown using contour lines to reflect changes in terrain height   These surveys are created using advanced too...

  Buying your first home is a big step and a huge investment. If you're purchasing in Roseville, CA, there's one thing many first-time buyers don’t think about but absolutely should: the property survey . While it may sound technical, a survey helps you understand exactly what you're buying and protects you from problems later on. In this guide, we’ll explain what a property survey is, why it matters in Roseville, and how it can save you money, time, and legal headaches down the road. Why Property Surveys Are Important for New Homeowners The Growth of Residential Communities in Roseville Roseville is one of California’s fastest-growing suburbs, with new neighborhoods, homes, and developments popping up everywhere. As a result, knowing your property boundaries and land rights is more important than ever. How Surveys Prevent Costly Mistakes Surveys show the exact size and shape of your property—and reveal things like fences built on the wrong side, driveways that cross into a...

Credit:   Martin B. Cherry / Nashville Banner   NASHVILLE, TN — Governor Bill Lee has unveiled a comprehensive $59.5 billion budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year , aiming to address critical infrastructure needs and stimulate economic growth across Tennessee. ​ tn.gov Addressing the Infrastructure Backlog A significant component of Governor Lee's proposal is the allocation of $1 billion to tackle the state's $30 billion backlog in road and bridge projects. This investment underscores the administration's commitment to modernizing Tennessee's transportation infrastructure.​ The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has identified numerous projects that have been delayed due to funding constraints, contributing to the substantial backlog. The proposed funding aims to expedite these critical projects, enhancing safety and efficiency on the state's roadways.​ Key Infrastructure Projects Several major projects are poised to benefit from this budget allocatio...

  Land surveying is an important part of buying or developing property. In California, where land laws can be complicated and the terrain varies, hiring a professional surveyor helps make sure property boundaries are correct, laws are followed, and disputes are avoided. Choosing a Qualified Land Surveyor in California When selecting a land surveyor, consider the following: Proper Licensing: Verify the surveyor is certified by the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists. Experience & Local Knowledge: Look for professionals familiar with California-specific property regulations and landscapes. Advanced Technology: Ensure they utilize modern tools like GPS, GIS, and CAD for precise results. Comprehensive Services: A skilled surveyor should offer boundary surveys, ALTA/NSPS land title surveys, and topographic surveys. Common Types of Land Surveys in California ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys Essential for real estate transactions, ensuring comp...