How can I find survey benchmark information?

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Hello and welcome to CoreFacts, where we're always short on time and big on science. I'm Steve Sobieszczyk. Today's question is about surveying.

How can I find survey benchmark information?

Depending on what survey benchmark information you're looking for will determine where to look. Most survey benchmarks were not established by the U.S. Geological Survey, but, instead by the National Geodetic Survey, and are available on their website at www.ngs.noaa.gov. From there, click on the "Datasheets" link at the top of the page and navigate the subsequent retrieval links. If you need further assistance you can call 301-713-3242 or e-mail infocenter@ngs.noaa.gov.

As for USGS survey benchmark data, this is not yet available online. However, you can still inquire about the USGS benchmark information from two sources. For the Eastern U.S. vertical and horizontal control information contact the USGS in Rolla, Missouri, by calling 573-308-3500 or e-mailing mcmcesic@usgs.gov. For Western U.S. vertical and horizontal control information, contact the USGS in Denver, Colorado, by telephone at 303-202-4400 or by e-mail at infoservices@usgs.gov.

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