Geodesy Journal

If you're thinking of buying land in Bridgeport to build your dream home, one of the first steps you should take is a perc test—short for percolation test. A perc test determines how well the soil can absorb water, which is essential if you plan to install a septic system. In areas like Bridgeport where many properties rely on septic tanks instead of city sewer lines, this test can make or break your land deal. Why It Matters in Bridgeport, WV Septic Systems Are Common in Rural Spots While some areas of Bridgeport are connected to municipal sewer, many lots—especially in neighborhoods near Brushy Fork, Maple Lake, and along Halls Run Road—depend on septic systems. A failed perc test could mean your land is not suitable for building or will require expensive soil modification. Hilly Terrain & Soil Types Impact Results Bridgeport is known for its rolling hills and mixed soil composition. These local factors affect how water drains into the ground. Clay-heavy or compacted soil, w...

If you’re planning to build a new home in Chelsea, AL—or even if you’re buying property in neighborhoods like Polo Crossings or Chelsea Park—it’s important to understand how local flood risks can affect your project. One of the most important documents in this process is the flood elevation certificate. Whether you're building along Highway 280, developing land near the Cahaba River, or adding onto a home in Forest Lakes, this certificate can directly impact your building plans, insurance costs, and long-term property value. What Is a Flood Elevation Certificate? A flood elevation certificate is a document prepared by a licensed land surveyor or engineer. It shows the elevation of your building (or planned structure) in relation to the base flood elevation (BFE)—a number defined by FEMA that estimates how high floodwaters could rise during a major flood event. In Chelsea, this certificate is often required if your property is located in or near a FEMA-designated flood zone. Why Yo...

If you're buying property or planning a development in Riverside, Jacksonville, FL, you may have heard of an ALTA survey. But what exactly is it and when is it truly necessary? Riverside is one of Jacksonville’s most unique and sought-after neighborhoods. With historic homes, riverfront lots, mixed-use properties, and a variety of zoning overlays, it's a beautiful but complex place to navigate real estate. That's why understanding what an ALTA survey offers and when you need one can save you serious time, money, and legal headaches. What Is an ALTA Survey? An ALTA survey (short for American Land Title Association survey) is a detailed, standardized land survey that’s typically required during high-value or commercial real estate transactions. Unlike a basic boundary survey, an ALTA survey includes: Precise boundary lines Easements, encroachments, and access points Location of improvements (buildings, fences, utilities) Zoning classification and setback data Flood zone iden...

Planning a new construction project in Alabama? Whether you're developing near the coast or in the hills, understanding the land is one of the first steps to success. Traditional surveying can be slow and limited—especially on tricky terrain. That’s why many developers and engineers are now using LiDAR mapping . It’s a fast, accurate way to see the shape of the land and make s What Is LiDAR Mapping? LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging. It’s a technology that uses laser beams to measure the ground and create a detailed 3D map of the surface. These lasers are usually mounted on drones, planes, or vehicles. They send out thousands of light pulses every second and measure how long it takes for each one to bounce back. The result? A high-resolution digital model of the land—showing hills, valleys, trees, buildings, and more. Why LiDAR Mapping Matters for Alabama Developers Alabama’s landscape is diverse. From flood-prone lowlands to steep slopes, every project site is differen...