PennsylvaniaThe

SurveyorInside...

Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors Newsletter

Surveying Beyond Boundaries Summer 2013

WheretoBuy

Now offered in 23 states, kits are available online at www.LymeAidKit.com; in local pharmacies; or in lawn/garden, pet, or sporting goods stores. The key is to purchase the kit before entering potentially tick-infested areas so the tick can be captured for testing.

What'sintheKit

uPatented tick removeruAlcohol wipeuSpecimen baguSpecimen labelsuTick testing formuPre-addressed envelope

President’sMessage...3NSPSNews...4WebinarSeries...7

SoundBusinessPractices...8BoyScoutMeritBadge...11Trig-StarWinners...16

RamblingsbyChuck...17MemberNews...21

LymeDisease...28LogoGear...32

Tick Testing Kit

While working in the field, surveyors face a myriad of potential health hazards. A bite from a tick carrying Lyme disease is one serious danger that deserves prompt attention; however, acquiring a diagnosis is not always simple and

results are can be skewed depending on testing parameters. That is where LYME-AID, a Lyme disease test kit that originated from East Stroudsburg University (ESU) in northeastern Pennsylvania, helps to expedite the diagnostic process.

With 99.9 percent accuracy, the kit was designed to take the guesswork out of whether to pursue treatment immediately, continue testing, or wait for symptoms to occur, which can imitate the flu and include a bull’s eye rash. All tests are conducted at the ESU Northeast Wildlife Lab and proceeds from the purchase price benefit further molecular biology research.

Created by ESU’s Jane Huffman, Ph.D., professor of biological sciences and director of the Northeast Wildlife Lab, and Melissa Shaw, MS, a graduate student in research, LYME-AIDTM isolates the DNA of the pathogen in a tick to provide rapid results. If results are positive, individuals or pets can pursue treatment before Lyme disease symptoms surface—or avoid taking unnecessary precautionary antibiotics if physicians or veterinarians are uncertain of infection.

takes guesswork out of L Y M E D I S E A S E

diagnosis

...for the surveyor's toolbox

Read about Lyme disease on Page 28

The Pennsylvania Surveyor is published by the Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors (PSLS). Articles or opinions expressed in this pub-lication do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of PSLS, but are published as a service to its members, the general public, and for the betterment of the surveying profession. Articles may be reprinted with due credit given. We welcome submissions via e-mail in MS Word format. Please forward to ksherman@psls.org or call 717.540.6811.

Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors

OfficersKarl E. Kriegh, PLS, PresidentAdam Crews, PLS, President-Elect Michael D. Kreiger, PLS, Vice PresidentShaheed A. Smith PLS, SecretaryMark E. Hummel, PLS, TreasurerBrent L. Birth, PLS, Past PresidentRobert R. Miller, PLS, NSPS Director

StateDirectorsAllegheny Heartlands ChapterJoseph P. Hood, PLS & Norman S. VanWhy, PLS

Bucks ChapterBrian Yorkiewicz, PLS & Jonathan J. Tabas, PE, PLS

Delaware Valley ChapterRichard A. Shewman, PLS & Bruce E. Lewis, PLS

Harrisburg ChapterMilton H. Davis, PLS & Thomas W. Kimmel, PLS

Laurel Highlands ChapterRichard R. Bourg Jr., PLS & Charles L. Zelenak Jr., PLS

Lehigh Valley ChapterStephen D. Ombalski, PLS

Mid-State ChapterFred M. Henry, PLS

North Central ChapterCharles G. Lang, PLS & James E. Pahel, PLS

Northeast ChapterBrian Naberezny, PLS & Scott R. Reeser, PLS

Northwest ChapterJeffrey P. Gilmore, & Edward E. Northrop, PLS

Pocono ChapterDuane P. Bishop Jr., PLS

Reading ChapterJohn G. Fuehrer II, PE, PLS & John M. Huck, PLS

South Central ChapterThomas E. Farcht Jr., PLS & L. Bradley Foltz, PLS

South Pocono ChapterLawrence R. Bailey, PLS

Southwest ChapterDonald R. Housley Sr., PLS & Terry R. Siefers, PLS

Susquehanna ChapterDavid A. Drumheller, PLS

PSLSStaffKate C. Sherman, DirectorLaurie L. Troutman, Administrative AssistantEditorDonald E. Rife, PLS

AdvertisingContact ksherman@psls.org or call 717.540.6811.

PennsylvaniaSocietyofLandSurveyors801 East Park Drive, Suite 107, Harrisburg, PA 17111 P: 717.540.6811 F: 717.540.6815 www.psls.org

2013BoardMeetingDates

March1

May10

October11

December12

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www.SurveyorsHistoricalSociety.com SurveyorsHistoricalSociety@yahoo.com

1-800-537-2000

Surveyors Rendezvous

2013Surveyors converge on Philadelphia

August 28-31to celebrate Mason-Dixon Line

Register at www.surveyorsrendezvous.org

LicenseRenewalsDUE

September30!EarnCEcreditsbytakingaPSLS

webinar.SeescheduleonPage7.

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President’s Pen

News from Our 2013 PresidentKarl E. Kriegh, PLS

I hope you are all enjoying a nice summer filled with a mixture of abundant work and relaxing vacation time. This year is moving by rapidly and I wanted to ensure that several PSLS activities receive proper recognition.

First, on behalf of PSLS, I extend a sincere thank-you for the generous contribution that the members of the Northeast Chapter made to the Schonstedt Humanitarian Demining Initiative.

Combined contributions of $1,041 were added to several individual donations to total $1,225, which was enough to purchase one magnetic locator. Schonstedt, in turn, will match the donation to purchase a second locator and both will be sent to a war-torn country for use in tracking unexploded ordinance. This is a great charitable effort that helps countless people around the world, and I am proud to be part of such a caring and considerate group of individuals.

In total, donations to this cause have enabled Schonstedt to purchase 92 detectors to date! Please see the attached letter of thanks from Woodstown Monthly Meeting of Friends, a group that has teamed with Schonstedt to collect funds for this initiative. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our friend Frank Lenik, PLS, for bringing this effort to our attention. For more about this project, click here to view a video that Frank helped create and here to read further details.

Additionally, I want to pay special recognition to Brent Birth, PLS, for encouraging donations to this cause and rallying the PSLS members to make contributions throughout the past year. All who contributed have made a difference in the lives of many affected by the aftermath of conflict and should be very proud of this achievement.

Next, I can't stress enough how important it is to grow our membership to strengthen PSLS and NSPS initiatives. That said, I encourage members to reach out to fellow surveyors who are not PSLS members and ask them to consider joining in the coming year. Please take the time to make a phone call or send an e-mail or note. If we all commit to contacting at least one person, we significantly increase our changes of gaining members. If you need a list of names, please contact Laurie at psls@psls.org or 717-540-6811. In case you did not hear, this summer the Membership Committee sent postcards to nonmembers inviting them to join for half price through the rest of 2013. We gained a few new members, but we need more! For details on the half-price special, contact the PSLS office.

Also, I want to recognize the staff and Editor Donald Rife, PLS, for receiving the NSPS Excellence in Journalism Award for the best state society newsletter. This is the second time we have received it in three years and we hope to be contenders in future years as we continue to improve The Pennsylvania Surveyor.

Remember to show your PSLS pride by purchasing logo gear! Recently, thanks to the hard work of Rich Shewman and Greg Gress, we opened an online store to sell several different types of shirts prominently displaying the Society's logo. The cotton T-shirt features the Mason-Dixon Line 250th anniversary on the back and is a great choice to wear when you attend the Surveyors Rendezvous in Philadelphia August 28-31. Visit the store on the PSLS website.

Lastly, please consider a donation to the PSLS PAC! We need funds to further our legislative initiatives. Mark Hummel's PAC Committee has made great strides this year to reach out to members through a Legislative Day on the Hill on April 9, and fundraising letters and e-mails, but we need to keep pressing forward—and we can't do it without your support.

Thank you all for being dedicated PSLS members and for working hard to make this organization strong. Let's keep the momentum going to ensure the surveying profession is proudly represented for decades to come!

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NSPS Director's Report

Fellow PSLS Members:

May I take this moment to thank you for making the decision to join with (at present count) 28 other states in making the NSPS 100% Membership a success. I’m pleased to share an update with you regarding PSLS’ newly formed 100% membership affiliation with NSPS. The enthusiasm and determination evident at the NSPS Spring Meetings produced very significant changes in the overall management of NSPS. You will find these changes to be positive and a step in the right direction toward developing a stronger national voice for all surveyors. With the change, some questions have arisen, so I’ll try to address some of those in this message.

What is the status of the MOU? In the spring, the office sent an E-News Notes message confirming that PSLS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with NSPS to join its 100% State Affiliate Membership Program. The MOU is also posted on the website for your reference. As a result of that document, my role transitioned from NSPS Governor to Director, which gives me voting rights on the NSPS Board of Directors and an opportunity to serve at a national level as the voice of my fellow PSLS member surveyors.

What took place at the NSPS Spring Meeting? At the April 11-14 NSPS Spring Meeting in Gaithersburg, Md., I felt privileged to attend in the capacity of Director for the first time. During the meeting, NSPS paid special recognition to all state societies that are participating in the program by giving each new director a certificate of appreciation; that certificate is dedicated to all of you for making this great leap forward to unify our profession.

The meeting was energizing and offered a great deal of new information about the exciting changes at NSPS, foremost of which was the hiring of a new public relations consultant, Neil Sandler of Flat Dog Media, Inc., and lobbyist, John Palatiello of John M. Palatiello & Associates, Inc., to help bring greater visibility to NSPS’ (and our) initiatives. Also, Lamar Evers of Florida was installed as the new president.

We are now in a strategic position to form stronger relationships with legislators who will see surveyors arrive at their office doorsteps in vast numbers on Legislative Day, and represent surveyors from all corners of the United States—and we are gaining momentum. To date, 29 states have signed the MOU and several others are in the process. See the state participation progress on the updated NSPS map at the end of this article.

As your NSPS Director, I have also taken on several other roles at the national level, along with roles I am continuing, to better serve you. Presently, I am remaining on the ALTA/NSPS Land Title Committee and a trustee of the NSPS Land Surveyors Foundation. I have been put in charge of fund raising for the latter. I have also become vice-chairman of the Great Lakes Council of States.

How does this alliance affect PSLS membership dues? The dues for NSPS membership for state affiliates participating in the 100% program are $40 annually, as opposed to the regular member rate of $225. This is in addition to state society dues. Future dues notices will not segregate the NSPS dues. This will be automatic and included in the annual fee. Please note that participation in this program covers members according to the state in which they reside.

A message from Robert R. Miller, PLS, NSPS Director of Pennsylvania

Robert Miller receives a certificate of appreciationon behalf of PSLS for participation in the NSPS 100%CampaignfromoutgoingNSPSpresidentRobertDahn.

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However, to make the transition smoother and more affordable for members in the first year, at the December PSLS Board of Directors meeting I proposed, and the motion passed, that PSLS cover the $40 dues for the first year (2013) for the following membership categories: all full PSLS Members regardless of whether they were NSPS members previously; and Associate Members, Student Members, and Life Members who were 2012 NSPS members (those who were not 2012 NSPS members, if they would like to join NSPS, would pay the additional $40 NSPS dues on top of the regular PSLS dues, except for students who pay $30 the first year—which is 2013—and $10 in subsequent years). Those paying the $40 should send money directly to the PSLS office for processing.

For the 2014 dues cycle, I am proposing that PSLS cover half of the membership dues for the above-mentioned membership levels to further aid the transition to 2015 when all members will be responsible for paying the PSLS dues with the $40 incorporated in the amount. At that time, the amount will be built into the licensed member dues structure. Non-licensed members will have the opporunity to join NSPS when renewing their PSLS Associate Member dues.

HowwillIknowifmyNSPSmembershiphasbeenprocessed? PSLS has submitted the names of all known Pennsylvania resident licensed PSLS members to NSPS and paid the dues. All new participants in the program should receive a welcome membership packet from NSPS within a few weeks after processing. Renewing members will receive a renewal confirmation. If you are a licensed PSLS member and a resident of Pennsylvania who has not received a packet, please contact PSLS.

What are some benefitsof NSPS membership?There are several benefits that NSPS offers: insurance programs, such as individual life and health, group health, and professional liability; rental car discounts; government affairs and NSPS news updates; continuing education programs and workshops; reduced fees for national conference registration; professional books at a significant discount; the Trig-Star and CST programs and fellowship and scholarship programs. Details can be found under membership at www.nspsmo.org.

It truly is an exciting time to be part of this great profession that deserves long-overdue recognition! I hope you all agree, and I congratulate you on choosing to unite with the national society to form a stronger alliance with surveyors nationwide.

Sincerely,

Robert R. Miller, PLS NSPS Director of Pennsylvania RMiller@horizonengineers.com P: 267-923-8673 ext. 117

• Total Stations

• Optical Survey Solutions

• Data Collection

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• GPS Mapping Solutions

• Technical Support

• Training

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26 years meeting the needs of the Survey Industry,Keystone Precision provides the very best in supplies, instrumentation, training and service. We’re dedicated tomeeting your needs in a professional and timely manner.

We staff each of our five offices with qualified sales and serviceexperts to meet all your requirements.

Contact us today and we will see that your needs are met! Call usat 800-833-9250 or visit us at www.keypre.com… and ask for or download our 2013 catalog!

Pennsylvania (Home) Office:

1670 East Race StreetAllentown, PA 18109PH: 800-833-9250 | FX: 610-266-3240

Offices also in:Crofton, MD East Syracuse, NYMilford, MATowanda, PA

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Join Us for a Virtual Lunch 'n Learn on WEBINAR WEDNESDAYS

Webinar Wednesdays have become a popular hit with both PSLS members and non-members. If you haven't jumped on board to try them yet, we invite you to do so

with one of our upcoming hot topics listed below! To date, we have offered sessions on these topics: Aerial Survey, Mason-Dixon Line, Filing a Complaint with the Registration Board, and Non-tidal Riparian Issues.

It's a great way to grab some last-minute continuing education credits before the September 30 renewal date. The Education Committee has worked hard to bring you these upcoming webinars, so we hope you will give them a try over your lunch break from the convenience of your office or home:

August21,2013FreetoPSLSmembers/Non-members$50Freetomembersofprof.orgs.ingeospatialfield(withdiscountcode)ContinuingEducationLawSpeaker: John D. Wanner, CAE

September18,2013SurveyingintheMarcellusShalePlayofPennsylvaniaSpeaker: Scott Reeser, PLS

(select webinars will be free to members, so check the website for updates at psls.org)

REMINDER: License Renewals Due September 30PSLS Webinars Can Help You Earn Credits

• Total Stations

• Optical Survey Solutions

• Data Collection

• GPS Survey Solutions

• GPS Mapping Solutions

• Technical Support

• Training

• Levels

• Transits

• Accessories

• Supplies

26 years meeting the needs of the Survey Industry,Keystone Precision provides the very best in supplies, instrumentation, training and service. We’re dedicated tomeeting your needs in a professional and timely manner.

We staff each of our five offices with qualified sales and serviceexperts to meet all your requirements.

Contact us today and we will see that your needs are met! Call usat 800-833-9250 or visit us at www.keypre.com… and ask for or download our 2013 catalog!

Pennsylvania (Home) Office:

1670 East Race StreetAllentown, PA 18109PH: 800-833-9250 | FX: 610-266-3240

Offices also in:Crofton, MD East Syracuse, NYMilford, MATowanda, PA

Fall0

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Spring13

2013 KPI trade ad_full page CMYK_PA 11/16/12 8:02 AM Page 1

Date/Time:3rdWednesday@NoonCost:Mostwebinarsare$40Member/$50Non-memberunlessnotedotherwise

October16,2013UAVsasTheyRelatetoSurveyingSpeaker: Joseph V.R. Paiva, Ph.D.

November20,2013GIS-relatedTopicSpeaker: TBD

As posted on the State Board of Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists website page, professional licenses must be renewed by September

30,2013.

uFee:$50uPDHsRequired:24

If you HAVE a MyLicense User ID and password are want to renew online, click here.

If you DO NOT have login information, click here to register. You will need:

uLastNameuRegistrationCode(found on the wallet card portion of your license or on other notice received from the board)

If you are short a few credits, please consider taking a PSLS webinar—many are worth 1 PDH. If you are unsure about the CE rules for renewal, our next webinar will be Continuing Education Law by John Wanner on August 21 at noon.

September 30!

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by Justin Klein and Mark Amirault

Guest Feature

Think back to when you decided to start your own firm; no doubt it was a time full of excitement and anxiety. You posed countless questions as you

developed a business plan. Questions like: Where will my work come from? When will I need to hire additional employees? How much money should I invest in equipment? For many surveyors, there is one question they might not have asked then and are still not sure how to answer today—"Should I use a written contract?"

Contracts can seem like the necessary evil, and all too often, agreements are signed without a careful review of the terms and conditions. As a result, disputes may arise and many surveyors are left with a contract that contains unfavorable terms. As highly skilled professionals, surveyors need to overcome the myth that they cannot be in the driver’s seat when it comes to utilizing written contracts with their clients. Taking the lead on a project starts by having an in-house contract that you can confidently present to your clients.

Presenting your own contract to clients will enable you to establish acceptable terms and conditions in many areas governing your work. This article will support the need to use contracts on every project by briefly touching on the following topics: Scope of Services, Standard ofCare,Approvals,OwnershipofDocuments,PaymentTerms, Indemnification, Limitation of Liability, and finally how it can lead to ImprovedSuccess.

ScopeofServicesA well-defined Scope of Services will set the expectations for your client. A clear Scope explains what you are going to perform and at what price. Just as important, the Scope disclaims responsibility for other project items for which you are not responsible (i.e. project scheduling, construction management, OSHA compliance and job site safety, environmental site assessments, geotechnical engineering, etc.). While nothing in a contract can prevent a client from naming a surveyor in a suit; a clearly defined Scope of Services can expedite the dismissal of a frivolous claim which can cost surveyors significant time, money, and frustration.

StandardofCareAdditionally, it is important to complement the Scope section with a short section which outlines the definition of Standard of Care for your client. According to common law, professionals, including surveyors, are required to provide their services in a manner consistent with other professionals practicing within similar conditions and in a similar locale. Contract language that extends the Standard of Care to one of “highest” or “best” should be avoided. Those terms are not measurable and hold a professional to an unachievable standard.

ApprovalsAs for Approvals, your contract should protect you (while manage the expectations of your client) by stating that the site plan approval process is inherently out of the surveyor’s control. The intent is to eliminate the client’s temptation to sue if a project fails to meet the client’s particular timeline.

OwnershipofDocuments

As a project progresses, your client fills a file with your “work product,” commonly referred to as “Instruments of Service.” This can include general correspondence, feasibility studies, reports, preliminary designs and, eventually a sealed plan. A good contract states that the documents produced by you are for the client’s benefit and for the specific referenced project only.

Professional liability claims can blindside a design professional. Take for instance a project that the surveyor started but never finished since the client “flipped” the project to a different developer. When this occurred the surveyor’s work was handed to the new owner who hired another surveying firm to finish the project. When a claim is presented, too often the original design firm is named as a defendant.

To help protect your firm against such unfortunate circumstances present a contract that requires the

SOUND Business Practices: The Need for Contracts

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surveyors. Unfortunately, you still have to worry about the other 40 percent of potential claimants for whom the Limitation of Liability does not apply.

ImprovedSuccess

Today, just about every client expects work by a contractor or a consultant to be performed under a written agreement. The use of a well-prepared contract will help promote the professionalism of both the surveying firm and the surveying industry. A professional approach helps establish a strong foundation from which a small operation can graduate to a sophisticated consulting firm able to service clients and projects of all sizes. From the vantage point of an agency that insures more than 850 design firms, performing profitable work under a proper contract adds value to a firm when the time comes for the owners to merge or sell their company.

Unfortunately, we live in a litigious society and cannot avoid claims—a reality to all in the industry. The key is limiting the disruption to a firm when the claim arises. Transferring the financial liability to an insurance carrier is pivotal to effectively address claims. In the instance of a frivolous suit, a solid contract will diminish the time spent to defend the claim and will help the firm return its focus to producing profitable work. Also, the regular use of an acceptable contract can lower professional liability premiums as many insurance carriers reward surveying firms who actively manage their risks.

I once heard an attorney say, “If it cannot be read, it wasn’t said”. While we all chuckle when we hear this statement, it is true to form when a claim is presented. A good contract does not have to be long to be effective. The key is for surveyors to revisit how they incorporate terms and conditions into their proposals and continue to present their firm in a professional manner.

The Klein Agency, LLC (www.kleinagencyllc.com) is a specialty in-sure broker that works with over 850 design professionals in the Mid-Atlantic. Klein Agency has been endorsed by PSLS for more than 20 years. They will be presenters at the 2014 PSLS Surveyors' Confer-ence in Hershey, Pa. Justin Klein is the 3rd generation owner of the Klein Agency, LLC, and is a frequent speaker at state conventions. He can be reached at jklein@kleinagencyllc.com or 888-284-2574. Mark Amirault, Account Executive, opened the Philadelphia branch of the Klein Agency in 2006. A frequent presenter for local chapters, he can be reached at mamirault@kleinagencyllc.com or 888-284-2574.

indemnity of the client in the event that your work is modified, misused, or reused without your prior written consent. If they want your work, make them pay for it!

PaymentTermsA clear definition of Payment Terms can provide a surveyor with necessary leverage to collect fees. During negotiations, you and your client should establish payment timeline. In the event that your client does not adhere to the terms, your contract will allow you to stop work and withhold any deliverables.

The timely collection of fees is an element of running a business that no one enjoys, but working under a fair and reasonable contract can make this process a little easier. Rather than the “call and scream” approach (or even worse, begging!), you now simply direct your client to the contract provision and advise him or her that, unfortunately, you’ll be unable to continue until payment is received.

IndemnificationSophisticated clients always look for a section on Indemnification in a contract. Simply put, an Indemnification section outlines how the party who suffers damages (i.e., bodily injury, property damage, or economic loss) will be compensated or “held harmless” by the other party whose actions were the proximate cause of the loss.

Rather than have the client deliver a contract that contains provisions that may look for indemnification well beyond the scope of your insurance coverage, take the lead and volunteer equitable Indemnity provisions up front. An acceptable Indemnity provision clearly states the duty to indemnify shall be limited to claims arising “out of” and “in proportion” to the surveyor’s (or the surveyor’s subconsultant’s) negligence.

LimitationofLiabilityLimitation of Liability is another important topic that deserves a dedicated article in the future. Limitation of Liability clauses are often upheld by courts and are an effective way to manage risk. However, keep in mind two key points: first—Limitation of Liability clauses are constantly being challenged in court; secondly – Limitation of Liability applies solely to your clients, who represent only 60 percent of the claims filed against

Also, the regular use of an acceptable contract can lower professional liability premiums... .

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Boy Scout Surveying Merit Badge: Passing Along Your Legacy

Do you enjoy teaching? Have a passion for surveying? The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) still has the “Surveying Merit Badge” available for the scouts to learn. This was one of the original 57 badges issued by the BSA in 1911.

I have been teaching the Surveying Merit Badge for more than 8 years now, and find the inquisitiveness, intelligence and vigor of the scouts uplifting. Who better to have an interest in surveying than boys who are part of a program that teaches outdoor skills (backpacking, camping, canoeing, orienteering, forestry, environmental science, hiking, pioneering, wilderness survival, etc.) along with first aid and leadership?

Typically, the scouts will range from ages 11-17 and vary in numbers participating, depending on troop size. Many of the boys I taught did not even know what surveying was (“No, I don’t go door to door and get public opinions!”), and had their eyes opened to something they seemed genuinely interested in once they found out more information.

If interested, feel free to contact me. I have surveying videos, PowerPoint presentations, and the requirements for the curriculum available. Depending on the troop

by Jeffrey Horneman, PLS, GISP

or program setup—an existing leader serving as the survey merit badge counselor, and having approved youth protection training, can have you teach the boys under his supervision. If desired, you can also become a certified merit badge counselor and take the youth protection training class yourself.

Share your years of experience with a local troop and not only empower these boys with a possible career they might not know exists, but you can also reap the rewarding feeling in teaching and mentoring possible future surveyors! Continued on Page 12

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Show that you know first aid for the types of injuries that could occur while surveying, including cuts, scratches, snakebites, insect stings, tick bites, heat and cold reactions, and dehydration. Explain to your counselor why a surveyor should be able to identify the poisonous plants and animals that are found in your area.

Find and mark the corners of a five-sided lot that has been laid out by your counselor to fit the land available. Set an instrument over each of the corners and record the angle turned between each line and the distance measured between each corner, as directed by your counselor. With the assistance of the counselor, compute the error of closure from the recorded notes. The error of closure must not be more than 5 feet. From the corners, take compass readings or turn angles to trees, shrubs, and rocks and measure to them. All measurements should be made using instruments, methods, and accuracies consistent with current technology.

From the field notes gathered for requirement 2, draw to scale a map of your survey. Submit a neatly drawn copy.

Write a metes and bounds description for the five-sided lot in requirement 2.

Use one of the corner markers from requirement 2 as a benchmark with an assumed elevation of 100 feet. Using a level and rod, determine the elevation of the other four corner markers.

Get a copy of the deed to your property, or a piece of property assigned by your counselor, from the local courthouse or title agency.

Tell what GPS is; discuss with your counselor the importance of GPS and how it is changing the field of surveying.

Discuss the importance of surveying with a licensed surveyor, the various types of surveying and mapping and applications of surveying technology to other fields, career opportunities in surveying and related fields, and qualifications and preparation for such a career.

2013 Surveying Badge Requirements

2

345

6

7

8

1

NOTE: The above are the minimum requirements;additionalskillsorpresentationsmaybeadded.

HelpfulLinks:

FindaScoutTroopnearyou:http://bsahosting.org/locator.htm

FindaScoutingDistrictCouncilnearyou:http://www.scouting.org/LocalCouncilLocator.aspx

Questions?Contact Jeffrey Horneman, PLS, GISP, at jeffreyhorneman@yahoo.com or 412-592-4126 (cell). n

Surveying cont'd from Page 11

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• Createpublicawarenessaboutlandsurveyingcareeropportunities,• Providefinancialassistancetoindividualspursuinganeducationinlandsurveying,• Makegrantsandcontributionstoeducationalinstitutionstoenhancealandsurveyingcurricu-

lum,and• Offerfinancialassistancetoindividualsoreducational

institutionsforresearchinlandsurveying.

Foundation Corner

The Pennsylvania Land Surveyors’ (PLS) Foundation is your guide to helping promote, improve, and encourage the practice of land surveying to future generations. When you donate, you not only help support your profession, you:

As part of its mission, the Foundation offers annual scholarships to land surveying students who exhibit academic excel-lence and personal commitment to the betterment of society. Each year, the Foundation awards thousands of dollars in scholarship money to Pennsylvania residents who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree in land survey-ing. To date, total funds dispersed exceed $200,000.

Play your part in giving direction to the surveyors of tomorrow and helping to perpetuate the profession by donating to the Foundation today! The Foundation welcomes support not only from members, but from corporations and all indi-viduals who believe in the Foundation’s mission. Visit the PSLS website at www.psls.org for more information.

Name or Company Name

Address

City State ZIP

E-mail Phone

rCheck enclosed (Payable to PLS Foundation)

Card No. Exp. Date CCV Code (3 digits on back of card)

Name on Card

Signature

Mailpaymentandformto: PLS Foundation c/o PSLS 801 East Park Drive, Suite 107 Harrisburg, PA 17111 Phone: 717-540-6811 Fax: 717-540-6815

DonationCategories (Select one)rRegular: $35/ yearrCentury: $100/ year rSustaining: $500/ yearrLifetime: $2,000

PLSFoundationDonationForm(ordonateonline)

PaymentMethod

r r r

BecomeaDonorToday! PLSFoundation

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AnnualSurveyor’sShoot

HeldatErnestHellerMemorialRange,June15

27thbyJ.FrederickFriden,PE,PLS

J.FrederickFriden,PE,PLS

It was a beautiful day with the temperature in the 70s, and cool and pleasant in the woods at the firing line.

Attending were Frank Grabowski, Randy Perry and son Alex, a new guy—Mark Wasickanin (we’ll call him Mark W.), Mark Stransky (Mark S.) and son Gordon, Fred

Friden and son Phil, Bill Heller, Glenn Johnson and son Thom with his wife Carol and his son Cody, and finally helpmate and supporter Audrey. We had the usual safety lecture from the Range Master who was pleased with the comprehension level of the shooters and particularly from Thom who volunteered to give the safety talk at the trap event—he did an excellent job of it.

We added a 7-yard target this year. That’s right, 7 yards. This allowed those who had little or no idea where their pistol was hitting at 25 yards to see where the gun or shooter was aiming. I asked Mark W. if he was familiar with weapons; he said “yes.” That was an understatement as we will see later.

Glenn and family had to leave early but left their mark. Here are the results: 25-yard Pistol—Grabo 1st, Mark W. 2nd, Randy 3rd; 50-yard Rifle—Mark W. 1st, Grabo 2nd, Thom 3rd; Groundhog—Grabo 1st, Thom 2nd, Randy 3rd; Turkey —Grabo 1st, five guys tied for 2nd with zero scores (one kept calling the target a quail); .22 Rifle—Grabo 1st,

Mark S. 2nd, Randy 3rd; “100”-yard X—Grabo 1st with a scoped muzzle loading pistol, Mark W. 1st without; Trap – here we go again! Mark W. 1st with 10 in a row (he really dusted them and after the event got two doubles then 1 for 2), 2nd—Mark S. with 7, 3rd Randy in an exciting shoot-off with Gordon and Bill (they all had 6 for 10). We went to doubles to decide the issue. Gordon missed his first try. Randy and Bill got 1 for 2, then Randy broke 2 to win over Bill’s 1. Before they had to leave, Thom got 3, Cody 2, Glenn 1. Alex got 2 (OK for 1st time with his .410). Phil got 1 and the pooped-out Range Master got 4 for 8. Grabo got 5 using Bill’s gun—had two misfires Boo Hoo!

As usual, we had a good feed with burgers, hot dogs, corn—thank you Audrey—homemade cookies (Carol?), baked beans, potato salad, soda and beer (always after the shoot, never during). We got some good help in scoring from Carol and Audrey and enjoyed the outing.

Your Range Master

15

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Pittsburgh Office

85 11th Street Ambridge, PA 15003 Ph: (724) 266-1600 Fax: (724) 266-8161

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16

Congratulations to these students for taking top honors in their local school districts. Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors appreciates the efforts made by the students in this competition and applauds them for doing their best—and their teachers and parents for encouraging them. Monetary awards were presented to the winners and teachers.

2013 State Winners Rock the Clock

And...

Students from nine school districts competed for the honor of being named Pennsylvania’s “trig star.” This year’s competitors scored so closely that the top three spots had to be determined by time instead of score. Congratulations to all of these students for a job well done! Drumroll please—the state winners are:

1stPlace:DerekHueske, Junior at Schuylkill Valley High School, LeesportScore: 76 | Time: 0:39:45 | Prize: $1,000 | Teacher: Charles Gerhart

2ndPlace:JamieFisher, Junior at Tulpehocken High School, Bernville Score: 76 | Time 0:49:40 | Prize: $500 | Teacher: Robert Neiswender

3rdPlace:DaltonScharff, Junior at Tulpehocken High School, Bernville Score: 76 | Time 0:51:42 | Prize: $250 | Teacher: Robert Neiswender

Learn More About Trig-Star

Bethlehem Catholic High School, Bethlehem7 students participatedPrizes: PlaquesTest Site: Penn State Wilke-Barre1st–Junbin Park Score: 71, Time: 0:59:192nd–Jonathon Neupauer Score: 52, Time: 0:47:163rd–Kyle Benbrook Score: 46, Time: 0:59:17Teacher: Anthony Messina

Emmaus High School, Emmaus 23 students participatedPrizes: 1st- $200, 2nd-$100, 3rd-$50, teacher-$501st–Omar Ahmed Score: 76, Time: 0:58:40 2nd–Katie Xue Score: 70,Time: 0:50:42 3rd–Robert Haag Score: 66, Time: 0:35:01 Teacher: Margaret Hoffert

MMI Academy, Freeland4 students participatedPrizes: PlaquesTest Site: Penn State Wilke-Barre1st–Jeff Bridges Score: 41, Time: 0:56:012nd–Pat Driscoll Score: 34, Time: 0:46:233rd–Roger Knittle Score: 29, Time: 0:59:20Teacher: Susan Moyer

Oley Valley High School, Oley6 students participatedPrizes: 1st- $150, 2nd-$50, 3rd-$25, teacher-$501st–Janet Peifer Score: 59, Time: 0:24:15 2nd–Owen Reinert Score: 53, Time: 0:49:25 3rd–Erick Blank Score: 35, Time: 0:15:25Teacher: Beth Ann Rohrbach

Schuylkill Valley High School, Leesport 23 students participatedPrizes: 1st- $200, 2nd-$100, 3rd-$50, teacher-$501st–Derek Hueske Score: 76, Time: 0:39:45 2nd–Kyle Kochel Score: 70, Time: 0:57:343rd–Alicia Douglas Score: 70, Time: 0:58:56Teacher: Charles Gerhart

Seneca Valley High School, Harmony 35 students participatedPrizes: 1st- $200, 2nd-$100, 3rd-$50, teacher-$501st–Reneo Botyrius Score: 76, Time: 0:58:15 2nd–Nichol Francino Score: 76,Time: 0:58:203rd–Emerson Maloney Score: 76, Time: 0:58:50 Teacher: Rebecca Ruggeri

Sharon High School, Sharon5 students participatedPrizes: 1st- $100, 2nd-$50, 3rd-$25, teacher-$501st–Elisabeth Lovera Score: 53, Time: 1:00:00 2nd–Lillian Trambley Score: 40, Time: 1:00:003rd–Kristina Jacoway Score: 23, Time: 1:00:00 Teacher: Brooke Cattron

Tulpehocken High School, Bernville7 students participatedPrizes: 1st- $150, 2nd-$50, 3rd-$25, teacher-$50 1st–Jamie Fisher Score: 76, Time: 0:49:40 2nd–Dalton Scharff Score: 76, Time: 0:51:423rd–Joey Olkusz Score: 70 Time: 0:47:32Teacher: Robert Neiswender

Wyoming Valley West High School, Plymouth17 students participatedPrizes: PlaquesTest Site: Penn State Wilke-Barre1st–Mike Baur Score: 76, Time: 0:55:292nd–Chris Bloom Score: 46, Time: 0:48:263rd–Joseph Cirilo Score: 46, Time: 0:49:06Teacher: Kathleen Wise

Congratulations to All!

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Ramblings by Chuck

Sampling Statistics: by Charles D. Ghilani, Ph.D.

The F Distribution

90%Introduction In previous articles on sampling statistics I covered the t and χ2 distributions, and their uses in surveying. The last sampling statistic I will discuss is the F distribution, which was developed by R.A. Fisher and G.W. Snedecor. The F distribution is used to compare two sample variances, which are presented as their ratio typically. In surveying we use this distribution to compare the reference variance from a minimally constrained least squares adjustment with the same statistics from an over-constrained least squares adjustment. We also use this statistic to compute error ellipses at a 95% level of confidence as specified in the 2011 Minimum Standard Detail Requirements for ALTA/ACSM Land Title Survey Standards. (ALTA/ACSM, 2011)

Constrained Adjustments It is well-known in surveying that in order to check geometric closures for a survey some observations must be held fixed. For example in a differential leveling survey, at least one station must have a “known,” which we call a benchmark. In traverse computations we need to “know” the coordinates of one station to fix the traverse positionally in space and one course direction/azimuth to fix the traverse rotationally in space. The reason for the quotes in the previous two sentences is because we can also just assume these values so that they do not have to be known in any recognized coordinate system. However without these observations fixed, any adjustment is impossible. When we fix the minimum number of observations in order to check geometric closures, this is known as a minimally constrained adjustment. In this adjustment, the observations only need to agree with each other to satisfy geometric closures.

Figure 1 A simple four-sided closed traverse.

Assume we have a simple four-sided traverse shown in Figure 1. If we assign coordinates (5000, 5000) to the station A and fix the azimuth of course AB to 90°, the coordinates of stations B, C, and D can be computed without requiring the angles at A and D or the length of course DA. These three additional measurements, which are called redundant observations and degrees of freedom, are used to determine the misclosure of the traverse. For instance, the angle at A is used to compute the angular misclosure of the traverse while the angle at station D and the length of DA are used to determine the linear misclosure of the traverse. With this these three additional observations, we can adjust the

18

>

%

X2traverse by any means suitable. However, if a least squares adjustment is performed, a reference variance for the adjustment is determined as discussed in a previous article. (Ghilani, 2012b) Since this adjustment has only a minimum number of redundant observations, which are necessary to compute the misclosure of the traverse, it is said to be minimally constrained. Some academics refer to this as a free adjustment.

Now assume that we also know the coordinates of station C in the survey. This introduces more control in the form of a second set of coordinates for station C. This is an over-constrained adjustment, which is sometimes called simply a constrained adjustment. It is called this since the addition of coordinates for station C provides more redundant observations than are required to compute the coordinates in the traverse. If a least squares adjustment is performed with stations A and C fixed in position and course AB fixed in direction, our observations now have to fit geometrically and match the coordinates of the two stations. This adds two additional constraints to the computations, which are the coordinates of station C.

Ok, this is a simplistic example. But how many times have you been asked to fit your survey to control created by another survey? How many times have you run into problems when this occurs? You experience these problems because your survey is now over-constrained, which isn’t a bad thing. It is simply that you have more checks on your survey data.

Let’s try another example. Assume that you are performing a surveying using state plane coordinates, which starts at one control station with an azimuth, passes through another station with state plane coordinates much as in Figure 1, and ends back at the first station. If only one control station and azimuth are used, the traverse will close according to the precision of the observations. Barring any blunders in the data and an appropriate weighting model for the quality of the observations, a least squares adjustment of this minimally constrained survey will result in a reference variance that should pass the goodness of fit test. (Ghilani, 2012a) However, if the distances are not reduced properly to the mapping surface, your observations will not agree with the coordinates of the control stations. (Ghilani, 2008) Thus the coordinates and adjusted observations for all the other stations will be incorrect. However if both control station coordinates are included in the adjustment, the reference variance will be considerably bigger than the minimally constrained adjustment since the distances are not reduced to the mapping surface. It is likely that the reference variance in this adjustment will not pass the goodness of fit test.

A better comparison of the two adjustments can be made with the F distribution, which checks to see if the ratio of the two reference variances statistically equals one; that is, if the two reference variances are equal to each other in a statistical sense. The F test is

(1)

where is the larger of the two reference variances from the adjustments and the smaller, α is 1 – P where P is the percentage point probability of the test, which is typically 0.95 in surveying, v1 is the number of redundant observations in the adjustment with for its reference variance, and v2 the number of redundant observations in the adjustment with for its reference variance. When Equation (1) is true the adjustment is said to fail the test and thus the ratio of the two reference variances are not equal to 1; that is, It should be pointed out here the S1 in Equation (1) should always be the larger of the two reference variances.

Why are they not equal? Typically this is because the over-constrained adjustment (that is, the adjustment with both control station coordinates held fixed) has residuals that are much different from the minimally constrained adjustment. The reason for this is because the distances were never reduced to the mapping surface, and thus are either longer or shorter in length than they should be. Thus the F test is an indicator of the presence of a systematic error in the observations. It also may not pass if the EDM/reflector constant is incorrectly entered into a total station. For example, our second-year students check this constant each fall with their assigned equipment. One year, the students noticed a −30 mm offset and proceeded to enter it into the total station as a −30. However, a check of the

19

n

... =instrument’s manual indicated that the manufacturer assumed that the offset is always negative and had directions to enter it as 30. The end result was an instrument that was off by 60 mm, which other students used for the entire school year. If this instrument had been involved in the survey, the F test might have uncovered the presence of this systematic error also.

Error Ellipses Another use of the critical values from the F distribution is to create 95% error ellipses. The standard error ellipse from a least squares adjustment has a probability of only 35% to 39%. This is well below the 95% mandated by the ALTA/ACSM standards (ALTA/ACSM, 2011). The critical values from the F distribution are used to determine the multiplier necessary to create a 95% error ellipse. Unfortunately the authors of the ALTA/ACSM standards were incorrect when they indicated that the multiplier should be two. In fact, the multiplier is dependent on the number of redundant observations in the adjustment. The correct multiplier is given by the equation

√ (2)

where v is the number of redundant observations in the adjustment, 0.05 is the percentage points determined from 1 – 0.95, and c is the multiplier used to create 95% error ellipse axes. The critical values from the F distribution can be looked up in the 0.05 F-distribution table or computed in the Excel spreadsheet using the function Finv(0.05,2,v). Table 1 lists the correct multipliers for adjustments having various numbers of redundant observations, v. Note that for a simple closed traverse with three redundant observations, the multiplier is 4.4. Also note how the multiplier stabilizes with 16 or more redundant observations, and that even with 30 redundant observations the multiplier still is not equal to two.

Table 1 F Distribution Critical Values and Error Ellipse c Multipliers

v F c v F c 1 199.5 20.0 12 3.9 2.8 2 19.0 6.2 14 3.7 2.7 3 9.6 4.4 16 3.6 2.7 4 6.9 3.7 18 3.6 2.7 5 5.8 3.4 20 3.5 2.6 6 5.1 3.2 22 3.4 2.6 7 4.7 3.1 24 3.4 2.6 8 4.5 3.0 26 3.4 2.6 9 4.3 2.9 28 3.3 2.6

10 4.1 2.9 30 3.3 2.6

In the next article I will discuss exactly what a least squares adjustment is. In a future article, I will present how error ellipses are computed.

Charles Ghilani, PhD, is a professor of engineering in the B.S. Surveying Engineering and A.S. Surveying Technology programs at Penn State, Wilkes-Barre. He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a BS degree in mathematics and education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He has been involved in education since 1974; teaching at various levels from elementary through graduate school.

20

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Member News

The PSLS board and staff extend condolences to thefamilies of these PSLS members who passed awayrecently.

Victor R. Geiger, PLS, Lehighton, Pa., passed away April 24. A PSLS Life Member, Victor became a member in January 1985, and was a dedicated member of his local chapter. The funeral service held April 30 was attended by PSLS Past President William Beitler, PLS, and several members of the surveying profession.

Blaine E. Miller, PLS, 78, Springs, Pa., passed away May 17. He was a longtime member of PSLS, having joined the organization in 1995 and was a member of the Allegheny Heartlands Chapter. Mr. Miller was licensed in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia, and held memberships in the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Maryland Society of Surveyors, and American Chestnut Society. He is survived by his son, Mitchell, and brothers, Dick and Gary.

Join the "PSLS Bucks County Chapter" on Linkedin for the latest on Bucks Chapter news & events! Great job, David Hines, for creating this group!

PSLS Bucks Chapter Now on Linkedin

PSLS was pleased to exhibit at the GIS Conference at the Penn State Conference Center June 3-5. Many thanks to Geospatial Committee and PSLS Board members Mike Kreiger, PLS, and Brian Naberezny, PLS, for proudly representing the Society. They spent their days networking, attending workshops and sharing news about the importance of surveyors’ work in the GIS community. PSLS sends out a special thank you to Mike and Brian for volunteering their time to attend this important event!

PSLS Members Represent Surveyors at GIS Conference @ Penn State

Thanks to the contributions of the Northeast Chapter ($1,041) and donations from several individuals ($184), PSLS members have gathered $1,225 to purchase one Schonstedt magnetic locator for the Schonstedt Humanitarian Demining Initiative. Schonstedt will match our donation and be able to send two locators to war-torn countries in an effort to locate unexploded ordinance. Read more about the effort.

BRAVO! PSLS Members Support Schonstedt Humanitarian Effort

In observance of the 2013 National Surveyors Week, dedicated PSLS member Bruce Lewis, PLS, braved the elements in southeastern Pennsylvania on GPS Day, March 16, to collect data for submission to the OPUS-DB. The weather that day included just about everything that could fall from the sky: rain, sleet, wet snow (and maybe a few cats and dogs), but Bruce was not going to be deterred.

He originally planned on observing a USGS monument near Morgantown, Pa.; however, when he arrived at the site, he found that the monument had been removed. Determined to collect his data, Bruce then called a fellow PSLS member to ask for suggestions on a different location. Eventually, Bruce found his way to the suggested USGS monument in Kimberton, Pa. Supplied with a receiver and data collector generously loaned by Frank Lenik of Leica Geosystems, Bruce endured the inclement weather and recorded all of the information required for submission to the OPUS-DB. The data was submitted, reviewed and now there is another Pennsylvania monument in the USGS data base. Well done, Bruce!

The published solution (assigned PID is BBCZ11) is available at: http://www.ngs.noaa.gov/OPUS/getDatasheet.jsp?PID=BBCZ11&style=modern

PSLS Member Sets PA Benchmark on GPS Day

PSLS extends thanks to board treasurer Mark Hummel, PLS, for giving a Trig-Star presentation to pre-calc and trig students at Seneca Valley Intermediate High School, Harmony, Pa.

This was the second school he visited this week; 35 AP students participated today and 5 on Monday.

See photos and a brief article about his visit. Trig-Star Donations welcome!

Trig-Star Talk Scores High Marks for Hummel

22

GOLFERS: Bring Your Swing to the King George Golf Outing September 13Presented by PSLS Reading Chapter The Reading Chapter invites ALL surveyors and friends to its 22nd annual King George Golf outing to benefit the George Knehr/Reading Area Chapter Scholarship Fund. Sponsorships available! Volunteers needed!

Format: Four Person ScrambleDate: Friday, Sept. 13Time: 9 a.m.Location: Chapel Hill Golf Course, Gouglersville, PACost: $50/pp includes greens fees, cart, beverages, food and prizesRegistration Deadline: September 7Contact: Wayne Eichfeld, 717-203-1527 or eeichfeld@hotmail.com

Registration Form Online Link

Member News

New Members

AffiliateTimothySlaven

BucksGeraldCoppola

DelawareValleyRamonRondon

HarrisburgMichaelWhite

LehighValleyMarkNace

NortheastRebeccaKile

NorthwestRichardTote,PLS

SouthwestEdFreyermuthTomMueller

Many thanks to Scott Reeser, PLS, for serving as the PSLS representative at the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Surveying Engineering Open House April 14 in Lehman, Pa. Scott had the opportunity to speak with prospective students and their parents about the merits of a career in surveying. What better candidate to do this than the campus' very own alumnus from the program. Kudos to Scott for sharing his time and talents with the next generation of surveyors!

Reeser Represents PSLS @ PSU Surveying Engineering Open House

If you have lost/stolen equipment, let us know and we will post the information on our site for you and try to help you locate it. An anonymous volunteer has stepped forward to start a Tip to Track effort. We can't make any guarantees, but it never hurts to have some surveying friends who love to play the role of sleuth! Contact psls@psls.org.

Tip to Track: Stolen equipment?

We Want to help You Find It!

23

Great food, sunny skies and lots of laughter were found at the 2013 PSLS Southwest Chapter's Washington Wild Things game. The event took place on Sunday, June 30 with over 30 individuals in attendance. The baseball game wasn’t the only entertainment for the day. One member won the dirtiest car award and was awarded a free car wash coupon and a couple laughs. We look forward to next year’s PSLS Washington Wild Things' event and hope to see everyone there!

Member NewsSouthwest Chapter’s “Wild” Time at the BallparkSubmitted by Pete Brothers

24

Shadows

by Cyn Rene Whitfield Terrametrix

Mean More Work for Surveyors

Guest Feature

Pennsylvanians have all heard the conspiracy theories that surround Punxsutawney Phil who is wanted

for fraud… but I have the inside story. The groundhog that actually emerged from his winter hole at Gobbler's Knob on Ground Hog Day was in fact Phil’s second cousin Punxsutawney Chill from Siberia who thought it was actually rather nice that day. When the days get shorter and winter closes in, many people feel like hibernating until a prognosticating rodent tells us our fate for the next six weeks.

At Terrametrix we don’t exactly brush off our top hats and break out the tuxedos but we are in the shadows answering the call. What started our call for documentation is being driven by the revised the standards (23 U.S.C. 151) of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) bridge inspection program. The regulations were developed as a result of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1968 (sec. 26, Public Law 90-495, 82 Stat. 815, at 829), but these 2005 revisions have catapulted a comprehensive effort to unify a nationwide inventory data base. Although the Act established national bridge

inspection standards (NBIS) with its primary purpose to locate and evaluate existing bridge deficiencies to ensure the safety of surveyors and the traveling public, Terrametrix is safely providing bridge clearance information for the National Bridge Inventory Database in California, New Jersey and Missouri.

Obtaining survey-grade accuracy for bridge vertical and horizontal clearances at traffic speeds is the most efficient and safe way to measure various structures and roadway features. Bridge height clearances for truck route permitting by traditional survey methods is costly, time consuming, dangerous and presents difficulty in managing the changing data due to continued highway construction resurfacing projects.

“I knew as a surveyor there had to be a safer way to collect road and bridge data,” said Michael R. Frecks, PLS, a 35-year surveying veteran, and president and CEO of Terrametrix. “Being in traffic or even on the shoulder trying to topo is the best motivator for finding a safer solution.”

Driven by a safer solution in 2008, Terrametrix participated at the National Conference for Highway Asset Inventory & Data Collection Management in North Carolina. Most of the units at the conference were GIS grade units. Survey grade capabilities like the Terrametrix

Bridge

25

system StreetMapper was rare and its application for bridge clearances was contagious. Steve Varnedoe, chief engineer with NCDOT said “The most exciting application we have seen out of this conference has been within the session on capturing bridge heights while keeping our surveyors safe.”

In 2010, Caltrans hired the Terrametrix team using Terrestrial Mobile LiDAR Scanning (TMLS) to document more than 8,000 bridge clearances to date. “Terrametrix already had the speed, safety and accuracy of collection with their mobile platform,” Frecks said. “This massive project needed a solution to be just as efficient in the office.” And, this need was soon to expand nationwide.

Traveling at posted highway speeds without stopping or needing traffic control, the data acquisition crews average 80 to 150 bridge structures per day per crew depending on the density of the structures. Accuracies of better than 1/2” have been obtained for vertical and horizontal clearances of roadway structures. It is critically important in oversize route planning.

“We’ve been busy making the survey profession safer by taking the red zone area concerns out of the equation and showing surveyors how to safely keep the rest of the work in house,” Frecks said. The call to updating the National Bridge Inventory Database for clearances is a good fit for the more than 25,000 state-owned bridges, the third-largest in the nation based on PennDOT statistics.

According to Frecks, “This is a good fit for surveyors to take on projects they normally wouldn’t because of safety concerns.” n

Jumping Back in Time with

"The Rattler"

submitted by William Beitler, PLS

My Grandfather, Arthur M. Haas, had two encounters withrattlesnakesduringhistimeserving.|Hissurvey#was5686.|HegothislicensebyanoralexambydrivingtoHarrisburgbeforetheBoardofRegistration.|HisFather,SamuelHaas,boughtasurveyinstrumentin1927fromKeuffel&EsserCo.|Ibelievehepaid$800whichwasatremendousamountofmoneyatthattime.|SamHaasneverbecamealandsurveyor.|MyGrandfatherwasabuilderwhobuiltnumeroushomesandforsomereason,heswitchedtobecomeasurveyor.

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Thank you to our Sustaining Firm Members

Applied Mapping Solutions Attn: David Keilly 320 Chandlers Way Lititz, PA 17543 Work Phone: 717-917-1154 Fax: 717-581-9177 Email: dkeilly@appliedmappingsolutions.com http://www.appliedmappingsolutions.com Atlantis Aerial Survey Co., Inc. Attn: Frank D. Hunter 295 Rte 46 PO Box 276 Budd Lake, NJ 07828 Work Phone: 973-691-4402 Fax: 973-691-2272 Email: fhunter@atlantisaerial.com http://atlantisaerial.com Berntsen International, Inc. Attn: Susan Norby PO Box 8670 Madison, WI 53708 -8670 Work Phone: 608-249-8549 Fax: 608-249-9794 Email: surveymark@berntsen.com http://www.berntsen.com CivilTraining, LLC Attn: John Cooke 5300 Wellington Branch Drive, Suite 100 Gainesville, VA 20155 Phone: 732-859-8353 Fax: 732-377-5454 Email: john.cooke@civiltraining.com Keddal Aerial Mapping Attn: Lucy Castelli 1121 Boyce Road, #3100 Pittsburgh, PA 15241 -3918 Work Phone: 724-942-2881 Fax: 724-942-2885 Email: l.castelli@keddalaerial.com www.keddalaerial.com Keystone Aerial Surveys Attn: Ken Potter PO Box 21059 Philadelphia, PA 19114 Work Phone: 215-677-3119 Fax: 215-464-2889 Email: kpotter@keystoneaerialsurveys.com http://keystoneaerialsurveys.com/

Keystone Precision Instruments Attn: George Allport Jr. 1670 East Race Street Allentown, PA 18109 Work Phone: 800-833-9250 Fax: 610-266-3240 Email: sales@keypre.com www.keypre.com Klein Agency, LLC Attn: Mark Amirault PO Box 219 Timonium, MD 21094 Work Phone: 410-832-7600 Fax: 410-832-1849 Email: mamirault@eakagency.com www.kleinagencyllc.com Marquis Agency Attn: Debra Christen 900 Route 9 North, Suite 503 Woodbridge, NJ 07095 Work Phone: 800-272-6771 ext 618 Fax: 732-634-5379 Email: dchristen@marquisagency.com www.marquisagency.com Nor East Mapping, Inc. Attn: Ron Henry, CP PO Box 270 Kylertown, PA 16847 -0270 Work Phone: 814-345-1167 Fax: 814-345-1176 Email: noreastmapping@verizon.net http://www.noreastmapping.com/ Oswald Companies Attn: Paula M. Selvaggio, RPLU 3401 Enterprise Parkway, Suite 101 Beachwood, OH 44122 -7340 Work Phone: 216-839-2815 Fax: 216-839-2801 Email: pselvaggio@oswaldcompanies.com http://www.oswaldcompanies.com/ Percheron Surveying, LLC Attn: George Totten 15411 Vantage Parkway, West Suite 205 Houston, TX 77032 Work Phone: 281-447-6230 Fax: 281-272-6679 Email: gtotten@percheronsurveying.com http://www.percheronsurveying.com/

Precision Laser & Instrument Attn: Robert J. Barth 85 11th Street Ambridge, PA 15003 Work Phone: 724-266-1600 Fax: 724-266-8161 Email: rjb@laserinst.com http://www.laserinst.com/ Print-Stat, Inc. Attn: Lou Mazero 1011 West Market York, PA 17404 Work Phone: 717-854-7821 Fax: 717-846-4084 Email: lmazero@printostat.com http://www.printostat.com/ Szalankiewicz Engineering, PC Attn: James J. Szalankiewicz Box 206 Elderton, PA 15736 Work Phone: 724-354-4852 Fax: 724-354-4273 Email: sellc@windstream.net Trimble Corporation Attn: Kelly Liberi 10355 Westmoor Drive Westminster, CO 80021 Work Phone: 720-587-4606 Fax: 720-887-6101 Email: kelly_liberi@trimble.com www.trimble.com

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Lyme disease is an emerging infectious disease that can have severe clinical manifestations in both humans and pets. The bacterium that causes

Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, is spread through the bite of infected ticks. Lyme disease cases have been reported from all 50 states, with endemic areas in the northeastern, mid-Atlantic, north-central United States, and increasingly, the Pacific coast.1 There is currently no vaccine for humans on the market, so prevention is key.

SignsandSymptoms

Early localized Lyme disease can cause symptomssimilartotheflu,andcaninclude2:

u“Bull’s-eye” rashuChillsuFeveruHeadacheuMuscle painuStiff neckuBody-wide itchinguMalaise

If left untreated, Lyme disease can spread to thebrain,heartandjoints,symptomscanbesevereandpersist for months or years after initial infection.Symptomsmayinclude1,2:

uParalysis of the face musclesuPain or swelling in the jointsuHeart palpitationsuHeadacheuMuscle weaknessuSpeech problemsuMemory disordersuNerve damageuSleep disorders

Lyme cont'd from cover

Signs & TreatmentL Y M E D I S E A S E

60 percent of patients have bouts of arthritis and up to 5 percent of untreated patients may develop chronic neurological issues.1

Approximately 10-20 percent of patients, especially those who are diagnosed too late, have persistent or recurring symptoms chronically, even with proper antibiotic treatment.3 Often times, these patients are treated with antibiotics for prolonged periods; however, this can have serious adverse effects.4 Prompt treatment is essential to avoiding serious complications associated with Lyme disease.

Treatment

Typically, Lyme disease is treated with doxycycline.1 Doxycycline is associated with some common and severe side effects, and patients with neurological and cardiac symptoms may require IV antibiotics.1,2 Common side effects include: diarrhea, upset stomach, and sore mouth.2 In addition, doxycycline is not recommended to treat children, pregnant or breast feeding women, or women taking oral contraceptives.2 Prolonged treatment with doxycycline has been linked to significant morbidity and even death.5

LymeDiseaseinPets

Lyme disease has been reported in dogs in all 48 contiguous states, and in endemic areas, 41 percent or more of dogs have been reported to be infected.6, 7 Pets experience symptoms similar to humans

Approximately 10-20% of patients, especially those who are diagnosed too late, have persistent or recurring symptoms chronically...

Approximately 10-20% of patients, especially those who are diagnosed too late, have persistent or recurring symptoms chronically...

Adult female deer tick*

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HelpfulLinks

uKitforLyme-AidTM(orcall855-812-0469)uVideo About Lyme-AidTM

uTickSpeciesInformationuCDC Lyme Disease Info

uLymeDiseaseHumanRiskMapuVirginia Governor Signs Lyme Bill

uPennsylvaniaSenateBill177(taskforceonLymedisease)

Fast Facts (source: Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/stats/)

In 2011, 96% of Lyme disease cases were reportedfrom13states:

uConnecticutuDelawareuMaineuMarylanduMassachusettsuMinnesotauNew HampshireuNew JerseyuNew YorkuPennsylvania(Note: 4,739 cases reported in 2011; the highest in the nation; source http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/stats/chartstables/reportedcases_statelocality.html)uVermontuVirginiauWisconsin

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Prevention

Prevention is the key to avoid getting Lyme disease, or any of the other potentially serious diseases that ticks can carry. The most important prevention measure is to regularly examine yourself and your pets for ticks and remove ticks immediately. If ticks are removed less than 24 hours after becoming attached, the risk of getting Lyme disease is extremely low. You may also consider:

uAvoiding tick-infested areasuWearing light colored, tightly woven clothinguUsing insect repellentuTucking pants into socks and tape openings in clothing uConducting a body check upon returning from grassy or wooded areas uChecking pets for ticks regularlyuWearing clothing and shoes that have been treated with insecticide

Photo credits* CDC/DVBID/Gary O. Maupin; CDC/Dr. Amanda Loftis, Dr. William Nicholson, Dr. Will Reeves, Dr. Chris Paddock 2006**James Gathany

References1. Lyme Disease. CDC. www.cdc.gov/lyme. Last updated July 26, 2012. Page viewed August 9, 2012. 2. Lyme Disease. PubMed Health. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002296/. Last reviewed August 26, 2011. Page viewed August 9, 2012. 3. Marques, A. Chronic Lyme disease: a review. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2008; 22:341-60. 4. M. S. Klempner, L. T. Hu, J. Evans, et al., “Two controlled trials of antibiotic treatment in patients with persistent symptoms and a history of Lyme disease,” New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 345, no. 2, pp. 85–92, 2001. 5. R. Patel, K.L. Grogg, W.D. Edwards, A.J. Wright, and N.M. Schwenk. Death from Inappropriate Therapy for Lyme Disease Clin Infect Dis. (2000) 31(4):1107-1109. 6. Levy SA. Use of a C6 ELISA test to evaluate the efficacy of a whole-cell bacterin for the prevention of naturally transmitted canine Borrelia burgdorferi infection. Vet Ther. 2002:3(4):420-424. 7. Straubinger RK, Dharma Rao T, Davidson E, Summers BA, Jacobson RH, Frey AB. Protection against tick-transmitted Lyme disease in dogs vaccinated with a multiantigenic vaccine. Vaccine. 2001;20:181-193. 8. Greene CE, Straubinger RK. Borreliosis. In: Greene CE, ed. Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat. 3rd ed. St Louis, Missouri: Saunders Elsevier;2006:417-435. 9. Klingborg DJ, Hustead DR, Curry-Galvin EA, et al. AVMA council on biologic and therapeutic agents’ report on cat and dog vaccines. JAVMA 2002;221:1401–1407.

when infected with Lyme disease, including: fever, swelling of the joins, pain, loss of appetite, and fatigue.8 There is a vaccine available for dogs; however, the efficacy is variable at best, with some reported to be only 50 percent efficacious.7 Moreover, there are safety concerns associated with vaccination including anaphylaxis and “post-vaccinal Lyme-like syndrome”.9 American dog tick**

PresentationsAvailable

Representatives from ESU are available for on-site presentations about Lyme disease and LYME-AIDTM. Contact Joe Orloski, marketing and sales manager, East Stroudsburg University (ESU) /Garrett Hewitt Int. at joe@garretthewitt.com or 570-233-8013.

LYME-AIDTM sources and a portion of information contained in this article were provided by Mr.Orloski.

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Legislative News HighlightsBelow are excerpts from the July legislative report provided for PSLS by Wanner Associates. Visit psls.org under Members Only to view the full report.

StateRegistrationBoardforProfessionalEngineers,LandSurveyorsandGeologistsThe State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists met on July 17 in Harrisburg. Here are the highlights. •BoardChairLisaCatania welcomed new Board member John Mackey. Mackey is a former President of the PA Builders Association. Catania also noted that board member Tom Gillespie had asked for Board support for his run for ASBOG Board Secretary position. •BoardmemberRibblett stated he and Board Regulatory Counsel Tom Blackburn had a meeting scheduled with DEP to discuss Principles and Practices. •BoardmemberTesler expressed frustration with delays in publication of the Board newsletter. Other members concurred. •BoardCounselJeffreyWood reported on the status of cases before the Board. Several cases at various stages of the process were discussed in Executive Session. •BoardProsecutorDavidRoss noted there were 161 pending cases, and commented on a couple of them. •RegulatoryCounselBlackburn discussed the status of Proposed Regulations. 16A-4711, Qualifications for Licensure was sent to the House and Senate Professional Licensure Committees and IRRC in May. IRRC reviewed the regulation, and staff raised several questions. The Board approved an amended preamble, and voted to resubmit the regulation. •RegulatoryCounselLarryBoyle presented 16A-4713 – Electronic Seals. Similar language is being proposed by the Architecture and LA Boards. Based on model rules from various national organizations and other relevant state statutes. Boyle asked for and received permission to distribute the draft regulation to interested parties as an “exposure draft”. Board member Tesler noted HB 1447, which addresses seals. Boyle said the bill’s introduction predates the regs, but is not law, and is “permissive”, rather than required. The regs follow current law. •Fromtheaudience,JohnFuhrernotedthatPSLSwouldliketopresentawebinaronpresentingamplifiedrecords.Boardmemberswelcomedtheidea. •NextmeetingisSeptember18. Board Administrator Robin Shearer also noted that for 2014, due to the volume of cases, the Board will be scheduled monthly, on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at 9 AM.

EnvironmentalBuildingStandards •HB1325RE:Anti-DegradationRequirements (by Rep. David Maloney, et al). Amends the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act adding language providing provide that onlot systems approved by DEP under current Act 537 requirements meet anti-degradation requirements of The Clean Streams Law and the regulations promulgated under that Act. ApprovedbytheGovernor7/2/2013(ActNo.41of2013) •SB1061RE:StateBuildingDesignStandards(by Sen. John Rafferty, et al). Requires the design, construction and renovation of certain State buildings to comply with specified energy and environmental building standards. The Department of General Services (DGS) and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) are required to develop regulations and adopt high-performance building standards, which will apply to any new construction projects in which the building is larger than 10,000 square feet. IntroducedandreferredtoSenateEnvironmentalResourcesandEnergyCommittee,7/19/2013

Local/StateGovernment/RegulationsSB351RE:StormwaterManagement(BySen.TedErickson,etal).Amends Title 53 (Municipalities), in municipal authorities, to allow municipal authorities to engage in stormwater planning, management and implementation as defined in the articles of incorporation by the governing body. Authorities already in existence and already operating storm water controls as part of a combined sewer system, sanitary sewer system or flood control project may continue to operate those projects.ApprovedbytheGovernor7/9/2013G(ActNo.68of2013)

UpcomingMeetingsofInterest •DEP:PENNSYLVANIASEWAGEADVISORYCOMMITTEEMEETINGCANCELLATION.The Pennsylvania Sewage Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for July 10, 2013, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. in Room 105, Rachel Carson State Office Building, 400 Market Street, Harrisburg. For more information contact John Diehl at (717) 783-2941 or jdiehl@pa.gov or visit the Public Participation Center on the Department’s website. •MONDAY—10/21/13.JointLegislativeConservationCommittee.12:00p.m.,LocationTBA. Environmental Issues Forum featuring hydro-geologist Bruce Leavitt to discuss "trompe" technology that he has rediscovered and is using to remediate acid mine drainage in an energy saving, cost-efficient and effective way.

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Get your gear on today!Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors now offers members a new way to show pride in membership—logogear!All items, from lapel pins to dress shirts, prominently feature the PSLS logo so others will know that you are a part of the PSLS surveying family.

What's in the cart? >Polo shirts (gray and white) >Button-down dress shirts (blue and sand) >T-shirts (gray and neon green) >Lapel pins >License plates Shirts are a cotton/polyester blend and have the PSLS logo displayed on the left side. Findalllogogearonourwebsiteorderform! When ordering, don't forget to check out our bookstore, which offers a variety of publications to educate and entertain everyone from novices to seasoned professionals.

PSLS Logo Gear is Ticket !

Newsletter Scoops NSPS AwardNewsletter Scoops NSPS Award

PSLS thanks the many contributors and advertisers, as well as Mr. Rife, who make it possible to publish this nationally recognized newsletter. Members can check out past issues of The Pennsylvania Surveyor by logging into the Members Only section of the website.

PSLS extends congratulations to the California, Florida, and New Hampshire surveying associations for their winning entries.

PSLS is accepting advertising orders for the The Pennsylvania Surveyor. Visit www.psls.org/advertising for details. An award winning newsletter and your advertisement—a perfect combination!

On June 26, NSPS announced the winners of the National Excellence in Journalism Award. For the second time in 3 years, The Pennsylvania

Surveyor has won first place in the newsletter category. The announcement was made in News & Views. NSPS also issued a press release regarding the competition.

The Fall 2012 issue of The Pennsylvania Surveyor was entered in the competition with encouragement from Editor Donald E. Rife, PLS. Members may remember when the newsletter took the top honors in 2010. After having worked on a revamped newsletter for less than a year, PSLS entered the Fall 2009 issue and was awarded first place during the 2010 judging.

InRelatedNews—AdvertisingisAvailable