- Examine record information and put the pieces together.
- Are the calls in adjoining tract descriptions calling for the same thing?
- Are they calling for something different?
- What will control the boundary location?
- What will the field crew be looking for?
- Are there any red flags or discrepancies in any of the descriptions?
- Calculate search areas based on the reconciled record information.
Search for Evidence
- Find enough evidence to “get on the system” with your search coordinates.
- Based on the reconciled record information, look for called-for corners.
- Half the battle is knowing where to look.
- If you don’t look for it, it is almost certain that you won’t find it.
Evaluate Evidence and Reconcile with Record Information
- Did you find the evidence called for in the record?
- Do the field measurements match the record?
- If not, is there an explanation?
- Was there additional uncalled for evidence that sheds light on the boundary location?
- Can you reconcile the red flags identified in the preliminary resolution.
Revise Search locations and Search for more Evidence
- Revise your preliminary resolution to match the evidence found.
- Identify refined search areas where nothing was found on the first attempt.
- Identify additional areas to search when the search area must be expanded.
- Return to the field and look for more evidence.
Final Conclusion
- Did you find the original called for corners?
- Did you find original uncalled for corners?
- Did you find later uncalled for corners?
- Will you accept or reject what you found?
- For corners not found, which legal principles apply?
- Do you feel confident with your conclusions?
- Does the evidence support your decision?
- If evidence is lacking, is your conclusion reasonable? sensible? equitable?
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from presentation by Steven E. Weible on May 10, 2014
