October 25, 1973 Missouri State Land Survey Authority Meeting Minutes

STATE LAND SURVEY AUTHORITY

Minutes of Meeting

October 25, 1973

     The meeting of the State Land Survey Authority was called to order at 9:00 a.m., October 25, 1973 by Chairman Daniel Kennedy at the Land Survey Authority Building, Rolla, Missouri. Present besides Chairman Kennedy were James Anderson, Richard Barr, Willard Eckhardt, Larry Fellows and Robert Myers.

     Minutes of the September 27th meeting were reviewed. Paragraph 3, Page 1 was revised to read as follows:  "Mr. Myers called attention to an Executive Order concerning equal employment opportunities that had been received from the Office of the Governor. Dean Eckhardt will send a copy of the University of Missouri's affirmative action plan on equal employment opportunities for SLSA reference in adopting a plan as requested in the Executive Order." The last paragraph, Page 2 was revised to read, "....any request from the Attorney General (or other appropriate State agency), but until that time the SLSA cannot comment or take action." Minutes approved as corrected.

     A draft prepared by Arthur Jacobs entitled, "State Land Survey Authority Code of Fair Practices" was reviewed along with suggested changes drafted by Dean Eckhardt. Several additions and deletions were made. After complete review a motion was made by Mr. Barr, seconded by Mr. Anderson, that the Affirmative Action Plan be approved as revised. Motion carried. Mr. Kennedy and Dr. Fellows, in voting against the motion, expressed the opinion that the plan as presented was too voluminous and was not specific enough on timetable and goals.

     The revised SLSA Rules and Regulations and Personnel Policies and Procedures were reviewed and changes noted. Additional minor changes were suggested and approved. In Chapter 16.060, further inquiry will be made concerning carry over of compensatory time and Chapter 16.060 written in accordance with that finding. The Rules and Regulations and Personnel Policies and Procedures were approved as revised.

     The financial statement for October 1973 was noted. A transfer of "up to $3,000" to Data Processing from Surveying Services was approved.

     Mr. Myers reviewed the proposed Smithville Restoration Project, T. 53 N., R. 32 W., along with additional information received from Mr. Harvey Evans since the September 1973 meeting. Mr. Evans submitted the following cost for the project: Cost of survey, $23,149.72; additional monuments in gravel road, $65 each; additional monuments not in road, $40 each, or approximately $2,085.00. Approximate total cost of project is $25,234.72. Accuracy requirements and details of the project were discussed. Motion made by Mr. Anderson, seconded by Mr. Barr that this project be approved and authority given Mr. Myers to enter into a contract with Harvey Evans to complete the project. Minor modifications in the work detail can be negotiated by Mr. Myers in execution of the contract. Mr. Kennedy voted for the motion with the following stipulation: Mr. Myers will furnish to the SLSA a statement of accuracy required (what can be expected if corners are lost and have to be recovered, and what standard --rural, urban, etc.-- Myers expects to receive). Dr. Fellows and Dean Eckhardt abstained from voting. Motion carried.

     Mr. Myers requested approval of the following equipment purchase:

          Drafting Machine                250.00
          Survey Stands (2)             5,400.00
          Short Range EDM Equipment     6,000.00
          Camera (35 mm.)              11,000.00
          Processor                     4,280.00
          Densitometer & Accessories    1,000.00

Motion made by Mr. Barr that purchase of equipment be approved. Seconded by Dr. Fellows. Motion carried.

     All members reported that they had received a copy of the letter from Mr. Charles Valier acknowledging receipt of the memorandum concerning the Reorganization Bill. No further action will be taken at this time.

     The increased time factor involved in purchase approvals was discussed. An attempt will be made to allow for this time lapse in future purchases in order that the SLSA purchase schedule can be maintained.

     Mr. Myers reported that he and Mr. Jacobs had met with Robert Lee, Ed Hodge, and W. B. Heagler to discuss Capital Improvements. Mr. Myers reported that it appeared that the Capital Improvement contract would not follow the line items as approved in the budget. It was agreed that if the Capital Improvement request was approved by line item, an opinion should be obtained from the Attorney General's office before signing a contract not including all items as approved.

     Mr. Myers stated that he had talked to Mr. Peter Ruger, Assistant Attorney General, and that Mr. Ruger and the Attorney General plan to go to Nebraska in the near future to work out a settlement of the boundary dispute.

     Mr. Myers reported that a request for Mr. Brown to give a court deposition concerning surveys in Iron County had been received. Mr. Myers requested an opinion from the Authority on the policy the SLSA should adopt with court hearing procedures. Dean Eckhardt stated that procedure would probably vary in accordance with the type of request--whether the SLSA representative was requested to testify as an expert witness or a witness who had done the work. It was agreed that this should be cleared with Loren Wood, Assistant Attorney General.

     Mr. Myers requested approval to send a questionaire to all surveyors to obtain names of surveyors interested in entering into contracts with the SLSA. Request approved.

     The articles presented for review were approved for inclusion in the next issue of Survey Bulletin.

     Motion made by Dean Eckhardt, seconded by Mr. Kennedy that SLSA meetings be held the last Thursday of each month. Motion carried. The date for the next meeting is November 29th.

     Meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m.


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transcribed by Steven E. Weible

General Process for the Resolution of Property Boundaries

Preliminary Resolution

- 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

September 27, 1973 Missouri State Land Survey Authority Meeting Minutes

STATE LAND SURVEY AUTHORITY

Minutes of Meeting

September 27, 1973

     The meeting of the State Land Survey Authority was called to order at 9:15 a.m. by Chairman Daniel Kennedy at the Land Survey Authority Building, Rolla, Missouri. Present besides Mr. Kennedy were James Anderson, Larry Fellows, Willard Eckhardt and Robert Myers. Richard Barr joined the group at 10:00 a.m.

     The minutes of the August 30th Authority meeting were approved as written.

     Mr. Myers called attention to an Executive Order concerning equal employment opportunities that had been received from the Office of the Governor. Dean Eckhardt will send a copy of the University of Missouri's affirmative action plan on equal employment opportunities for SLSA reference in adopting a plan as requested in the Executive Order.

     Mr. Myers stated that letters had been sent to Governor Bond, members of the House Reorganization Committee, and members of the Senate Reorganization Committee following the August 30th Authority meeting. Dean Eckhardt reported that he had talked to Mr. Charles Valier after he received the letter, and that Mr. Valier was more interested in the regulatory powers of the SLSA over other items mentioned in the letter. Mr. Myers stated that he had been contacted by Ms. Ann Tettlebaum for additional information, and copies of the SLSA advisory regulations were sent to Ms. Tettlebaum. Mr. Anderson reported that the Missouri Society of Professional Engineers would support the Authority in the Reorganization Bill.

     Mr. Myers brought the Authority up to date on action taken toward eliminating or raising the statutory limit on the State Surveyor's salary. Dr. Howe had talked to Mr. Charles Valier, Office of the Governor, and Mr. Valier had indicated that it was the intent to remove the statutory salary limits of the State Surveyor and State Geologist. Salaries of Department Heads would be set in the Reorganization Bill, and organization head salaries be adjusted accordingly. Therefore no action was taken by Mr. Myers.

     The Budget Request for 1975 was presented for final approval. Minor changes had been made after Mr. Myers' meeting with Mr. Steve Gurwell, budget analyst. It was agreed that a detail sheet on the user fee and budget requests through 1978 be submitted with the 1975 Budget Request. Budget approved for submission.

     The 1975 Capital Improvement budget request was approved.

     Expense summary for the month of September was noted.

     The following action on second quarter budget requests was taken:

     Personal Service request for $32,311.21. Motion made by Dean Eckhardt, seconded by Mr. Barr that request be approved. Motion carried.

     Equipment Purchase & Repair request for $32,282.00. Motion made by Mr. Barr, seconded by Dr. Fellows that request be approved. Motion carried. The following items were approved for immediate purchase:

               4 Microfilm readers
               1 4-Wheel drive vehicle

     Operation request for $55,467.00. Motion made by Mr. Anderson, seconded by Mr. Barr that Operations request be approved. Motion carried.

     Following approval of the quarterly budget requests, and prior to the arrival of Miss Julia Duke, the Missouri-Nebraska boundary dispute was reviewed and SLSA Members brought up to date on recent correspondence and telephone contacts with Miss Duke. Mr. Myers reviewed all previous activity he had encountered concerning the boundary dispute. It was agreed that the position of the SLSA is as follows: The SLSA is ready to cooperate and comply with any request from the Attorney General (or other appropriate State agency), but until that time the SLSA cannot comment or take action.

     Adjourned for lunch.

     At 1:30 p.m., SLSA Members met with Miss Julia Duke. Miss Duke outlined action that had been taken by herself and other parties involved in the Missouri-Nebraska dispute. Mr. Kennedy advised Miss Duke that the SLSA could take no action unless so requested by the Attorney General; also that at the present time the SLSA had no funds available for a project in the area. Upon request by the Attorney General's office, the SLSA would be ready to give technical assistance. Miss Duke indicated she had a better understanding of the SLSA position after meeting with the Authority.

     At 2:30 p.m. the general meeting of the SLSA resumed. Review of revised Rules and Regulations was deferred until the next Authority meeting.

     Mr. Myers reported that after a preliminary survey of contractors available for surveys to be executed for the National Park Service, letters were sent to M. J. Huffman & Associates and S. H. Smith & Co. requesting a design and proposal for the project. Mr. Myers requested approval to enter into two contracts totaling $11,675. Mr. Anderson made a motion that the contracts be approved, seconded by Mr. Barr. Motion carried.

     Mr. Myers reviewed a project including a majority of two townships to be completed by Mr. Harvey Evans under contract with the Corps of Engineers at Smithville, Missouri. Mr. Myers proposed that the SLSA complete either one or both of the townships, depending upon funds available. Mr. Myers requested approval to negotiate with Mr. Evans and return to the Authority for contract approval. Mr. Anderson made a motion that the request be approved. Seconded by Mr. Barr. Motion carried.

     Mr. Myers read a letter received from Mr. Teller, Bureau of Land Management, concerning the recording of BLM surveys. A proposed SLSA news release concerning delay of filing BLM surveys was reviewed. It was agreed that a copy of the news release be forwarded to Mr. Teller, requesting permission to include the release in the next SLSA Bulletin.

     The next meeting of the Authority is tentatively set for October 25th.

     Meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m.


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transcribed by Steven E. Weible

August 31, 1973 SLSA Memo on the State Reorganization Act

August 31, 1973

To     : Governor Christopher S. Bond
                                 Cason

                                 Holt
                                 Volkmer

From   : Chairman & Members, State Land Survey Authority

Subject: State Reorganization Act

Section 10 of the final version of the Omnibus State Reorganization Act of 1973, S.B. No. 77, creates and is concerned with a Department of Natural Resources. Most of the transfers of existing agencies to this new Department are by Type II transfers where the identity of the agency and its board are continued.

However, under S.B. 77, Sec. 10(5), the functions of the State Land Survey Authority are transferred to the Department of Natural Resources by a Type I transfer and the Authority is abolished; thereafter the State Geologist supervises and coordinates the work formerly done by the State Land Survey Authority.

The State Reorganization Act in its several versions and changes has been a matter of interest to the State Land Survey Authority during the past year and has been discussed at various meetings of the Authority. At the meeting of the Authority on August 2, 1973, a position was adopted and the present statement of that position was approved by the Authority at its meeting on August 30, 1973. The State Geologist (a member of the Authority ex officio) thought it inappropriate for him to act on this particular matter and he abstained.

1. It is respectfully submitted that the transfer of the State Land Survey Authority to the Department of Natural Resources should be at least by a Type II transfer and preferably by a Type III transfer. The principal reasons are stated briefly in the following paragraphs.

2. The State Land Survey Authority has certain functions which are the same or similar to the rule making and hearing powers of agencies transferred by Type II transfers under S.B. 77, Sec. 10(3). In particular, the State Land Survey Authority modifies certain distance limitations under RSMo Sec. 60.460 as amended in 1973, and issues advisory regulations on land surveying under RSMo Sec. 60.150(7).

3. We have the highest regard for the present State Geologist and his assistant, and their predecessors, as professional geologists and as administrators, but the State Geologist as such is not a land surveyor or civil engineer and has no expertise with regard to land surveying. Probably confusion has arisen because of the use of the word "survey" in both the State Geological "Survey" and the State Land "Survey" Authority, but the word is used in two entirely different senses.

In terms of professional staff, the agency in Missouri most closely related to the State Land Survey Authority is the State Highway Commission with its staff of engineers and right-of-way surveyors.

4. The State Land Survey Authority has five members whose qualifications are stated in RSMo Sec. 60.500. Two are professional surveyors (also professional engineers), one is a professional engineer (also a professional geodetic surveyor), one is a lawyer, and one is the State Geologist ex officio. The Authority is non-partisan in that no more than two of the members may be of the same political party.

5. The State Land Survey Authority is a relatively new agency which started to function on a nominal appropriation in September 1970, and which for the first time in 1973-74 will have an appropriation approximately equal to the user fees which as a practical matter support the agency.

Basic thrusts and policies still are in the formative stage, and at least for some years to come there should be an expert board to establish policies and provide guidance and priorities for the State Land Surveyor.

6. The State Land Surveyor was appointed solely on the basis of his professional qualifications and is continued in office solely on the basis of his professional performance. The continued existence of a non-partisan board of successful professional persons will help assure that there will be no change in this policy and will make it easier to attract and retain an excellently qualified person for the very modest authorized salary.

7. Each present member of the State Land Survey Authority performs this somewhat obscure public service at a sacrifice of time or money or both. The recommendation in Paragraph 1 above that the State Land Survey Authority continue in existence is not based on the desire of any member of the Authority to be perpetuated in office.

                      Respectfully submitted,

                         JAMES S. ANDERSON
                         RICHARD J. BARR
                         WILLARD L. ECKHARDT, Members
                         DANIEL KENNEDY, Chairman


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transcribed by Steven E. Weible

August 30, 1973 Missouri State Land Survey Authority Meeting Minutes

MINUTES OF MEETING

STATE LAND SURVEY AUTHORITY

August 30, 1973

     The meeting of the State Land Survey Authority was called to order at 9:00 a.m. at the State Land Survey Authority Building, Rolla, Missouri. Dean Willard Eckhardt presided at the meeting in the absence of Chairman Daniel Kennedy. Others present were James Anderson, Richard Barr, Larry Fellows and Robert Myers. Arthur Jacobs was also present during part of the meeting.

     The minutes of the August 2nd meeting were reviewed. It was agreed that Paragraph 5, Page 1, sentence 2, be amended to read as follows: "It was agreed that the questions pertaining to church and union affiliation should be deleted from the form and a space added for minority status if in accord with State personnel practice. Mr. Jacobs will inquire into the State policy of designating minority groups on the job application form and the appropriate change in the SLSA application form be made subject to approval by Mr. Robert Myers." Minutes approved as corrected.

     Trial Balance sheets for the months of July and August were received and noted. Several suggested changes in the structure of the Trial Balance sheets were discussed. These changes will be initiated before the next meeting.

     Mr. Myers reported the following on new personnel. As directed at the August 2nd meeting, Chancellor Baker and Mr. Joseph Wollard, Business Officer, University of Missouri-Rolla, were notified by letter that a present UMR employee was being considered for the SLSA position of Chief, Repository. To date no reply has been received. After a reasonable delay, Mr. Jack McDermott was hired as Chief, Repository and will begin his duties on September 1, 1973. Mr. Robert Wethington has been hired as Surveyor and will begin work on September 1, 1973.

     At present, three part time employees are working and one student has been assigned to the SLSA through UMR's Financial Aid Program.

     As agreed at the August 2nd meeting, a memo concerning transfer of the SLSA to the Department of Natural Resources in the State Reorganization Bill was prepared by Dean Eckhardt and distributed to Authority Members prior to the August 30th meeting. This memo was reviewed in detail. Minor changes were suggested and the memo approved for mailing. It was agreed that copies of the memo be sent to Governor Bond, Members of the House Reorganization Committee, and Members of the Senate Reorganization Committee, with information copies going to Paul Doll, M.S.P.E.; Wendell Locke, M.A.R.L.S.; and Charles Valier, Alan Woods, Robert James and Hugh Sprague, Office of the Governor. Mr. Eckhardt will contact Mr. Valier to obtain names of persons working out details of the Reorganization for Governor Bond. If possible a meeting will be arranged with this committee and members of the SLSA.

     Mr. Myers asked for an opinion from the Authority on writing a letter to Governor Bond suggesting that State agencies be directed by Executive Order to follow surveying rules and standards issued by the SLSA. It was the consensus of opinion that this action might be premature. It was agreed that Mr. Myers should make definite overtures to other State agencies concerning this action. Mr. Myers will report back to the Authority with possible recommendations.

     Mr. Myers reported no information had been received from the Division of Contracting and Procurement on obtaining Public Liability Insurance for SLSA employees.

     Mr. Myers stated that an architect for 1974 Capital Improvements had been selected by the Office of Design and Construction. Motion made by Mr. Barr that Mr. Myers be authorized to negotiate and sign the Capital Improvements contract when received. Seconded by Mr. Eckhardt. Motion carried.

     Mr. Myers reported a letter had been received from Governor Bond requesting ideas for new legislation. It was duly moved by Mr. Barr, seconded by Mr. Anderson, and carried that RSMo 60.520(2) should be amended to provide a more adequate salary for the State Land Surveyor. It would be preferable to have no ceiling, but if there is to be a ceiling it should be at least $25,000. Mr. Myers is authorized to prepare and submit appropriate legislative recommendations.

     Due to long delays in processing of purchase orders, Mr. Myers requested approval to initiate purchase of the large Reader-Printer during the second quarter rather than the third quarter. Mr. Anderson made a motion, seconded by Mr. Barr, that the Reader-Printer be approved for purchase during the second quarter. Motion carried. Approximate price of the Reader-Printer is $7,000 plus.

     Authorization was given for Mr. Myers to attend a Surveying Seminar at Purdue University, Lafayette, Indiana, on September 20-22 and a meeting of the Oklahoma Society of Land Surveyors at Tulsa, Oklahoma, September 28-30, 1973. Mr. Myers will speak at both meetings. Expenses will be partially reimbursed by Purdue University and OSLS.

     The regular budget for FY 1975 was reviewed. Mr. Myers stated that he had been informed through Mr. Cooper's office that no change would be made in the UMR-SLSA utility arrangement. Therefore no funds have been requested for payment of utilities in FY 75. Additional personnel requested are: 1 Surveyor; 1 Survey Technician I; 1 Survey Technician III; and 1 Clerk Typist. The SLSA salary chart in relationship with the Merit System salaries was discussed. The Authority members agreed that Mr. Myers should review SLSA salaries again to be sure an expected Merit System increase during Fiscal Year 74 is included in comparable SLSA salaries. Mr. Myers stated that a 1% merit increase will be allowed in FY 75 to be distributed to employees at Mr. Myers' discretion. It was agreed that Mr. Myers request a 5% increase in per diem appropriation. If the increase is not allowed no issue should be made. Equipment purchases were reviewed briefly. Operations request was reviewed by line item. The Operations request is an increase of $34,000 over FY 74, with the entire FY 75 budget request totaling $347,814. Mr. Eckhardt made a motion that the budget be approved and changes by Mr. Myers allowed within a limited extent. Any major changes should be referred to Authority members. The 1975 Capital Improvement budget totaling $98,601 was approved subject to discretion on changes that have to be made.

     Mr. Myers reported on the status of SLSA projects:

     1. Iron Co. Project. Aerial photography has been reviewed. Mr. Brown has started working on computations and is also traversing some additional points. Coordinate values are being key punched.

     2. Carter Co. Project. Ten resume information type forms were sent to possible contractors. A basic inventory of the project has been made.

     3. St. Louis Project. A great deal of work has been completed checking out the coordinate system. It appears that the Kosciusko system is out by about 65 feet. The possibility of tieing this system to a National Geodetic Survey station will be investigated. Approximately 709 man-hours has been spent on this project to date. At 2.5 times payroll, this would be $8600.

     4. Microfilming is going very well. All of the records of the Lincoln County surveyor and the Lincoln County recorder's books have been filmed.

     The next meeting will be held at the SLSA building, September 27th at 9:00 a.m.

     Meeting adjourned at 3:05 p.m.


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transcribed by Steven E. Weible

August 2, 1973 Missouri State Land Survey Authority Meeting Minutes

MINUTES OF MEETING

STATE LAND SURVEY AUTHORITY

August 2, 1973

     The meeting of the State Land Survey Authority was held August 2nd at the Kentwood Arms, Springfield, Missouri. Chairman Daniel Kennedy called the meeting to order at 10:15 a.m. with James Anderson, Willard Eckhardt, Larry Fellows and Robert Myers present.

     The minutes of the July 5th, 1973 meeting were reviewed and minor corrections made. Minutes approved.

     The trial balance sheet for FY 73 was presented for review and comment. Mr. Myers pointed out that the 3% reserve in Personal Service and in Equipment Purchase and Repair accounts had been released for expenditure. The balance sheet for the month of July will be presented at the next meeting as a final copy of amended code numbers has not been received from Jefferson City.

     Mr. Myers reported that the following employees had been hired since July 1, 1973:
               Vicki Rushing - Clerk Typist II
               Ralph Hess - Draftsman
               Leland Chrisco - Surveying Technician I
               Thomas Cooley - Surveying Technician I

     Possible changes in the SLSA Employment Application form were discussed. It was agreed that the questions pertaining to church and union affiliation should be deleted from the form and a space added for minority status if in accord with State personnel practice. Qualifications for department heads were discussed with emphasis on whether experience could be substituted for a college degree with regard to these positions. It was suggested that Mr. Jacobs explore this further.

     Mr. Myers stated that the positions of Chief of Repository and Surveyor have not been filled. He reviewed the qualifications required for the Chief of Repository, and noted that to date no one with all desired qualifications had applied. Applications received to date were reviewed and qualifications discussed. It was agreed that of the applicants, Mr. Jack McDermott seemed best qualified for the position.  Mr. McDermott is presently employed by the University of Missouri-Rolla, and it was agreed that Chancellor Baker and Mr. Joseph Wollard, Business Officer, should be informed that Mr. McDermott was being considered for a position with the SLSA. If no problems are encountered with UMR, Mr. Myers will hire Mr. McDermott as Chief of Repository.

     Adjourned for lunch.

     Mr. Myers stated that several applications had been received for the position of surveyor. Authority members voiced strong approval for equal employment opportunity in SLSA appointments. It was the consensus of opinion that a surveyor, registered in another state, could be hired with the understanding that he would become registered in Missouri at the earliest opportunity.

     Mr. Myers reported that the Reorganization Bill had been vetoed by Governor Bond on July 31st. Dr. Fellows stated that in view of the veto, Dr. Howe would withdraw his provisional memo, "Initial Consideration(s) with Regard to Reorganization," presented to the Board at the July 5th meeting. It was agreed that before the next Authority meeting Dean Eckhardt would draft a letter, to be signed by Messrs. Kennedy, Anderson, Barr and Eckhardt, requesting transfer of the SLSA to the Department of Natural Resources by a Type II transfer. Dr. Fellows stated that due to the role of the Missouri Geological Survey & Water Resources in relation to the Reorganization Bill, he would abstain from inclusion in any discussion or correspondence.

     Mr. Myers stated that the 1974-1975 budget request was due on October 1, 1973. He noted that the User Fee for 1973 had increased by 6% from the same period last year. Mr. Myers reported that Mr. John Cooper, Director of Division of Design and Construction, had advised him to include the entire building operation costs into a separate identifiable category in the 1975 budget. This would include utilities, custodian, etc. A new position of Account Clerk II was approved. It was agreed that the 1975 budget request should total approximately $365,000.

     Mr. Myers reported on the status of the following projects:

         1. St. Louis Coordinate - Work was started in mid-July and
            the survey crew is presently measuring angles.

         2. Iron Co. - All work as specified in the contract has been
            completed and received. Mr. Murphy will be requested to
            do additional work to expend the remaining contract funds.
            Surdex has provided a printout of values on the coordinates.

         3. Pattonsburg - Needs final search and evaluation.

         4. Carter Co. project - ready to start. No progress to date.

     Mr. Myers stated that the manager of the Heritage House Apartment Building was reluctant to permit SLSA personnel access to the roof of their building without liability insurance. Steps will be taken to obtain coverage for SLSA employees needing this type of protection.

     Mr. Kennedy inquired if any further information had been received on the Pattonsburg project. Mr. Myers stated that a final search and evaluation was still needed, and no additional information was available at this time.

     The next meeting of the SLSA will be held at 9:00 a.m., August 30th at the State Land Survey Authority building, Rolla.

     Meeting adjourned at 4:09 p.m.


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transcribed by Steven E. Weible

1984 Explanation of Calibration Report by Robert E Myers

   MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

   P. O. Box 250, Rolla, Missouri 65401

   MEMORANDUM

      Date: March 12, 1984
        To: Users of the EDM Baselines
      From: Robert E. Myers, State Land Surveyor
   Subject: Explanation of the Calibration Report

The computer program used to analyze the results of the calibration measurements on the calibration baselines provide essentially two pieces of information. A system constant and a system scale factor. The system constant is composed of two components, the prism constant and the error of the phase difference determination. In the ideal situation, the prism constant will be known, so the error in phase determination will be the only unknown. For most EDM equipment the phase difference determination error will be plus or minus five millimeters. When the results of the calibration report shows the system constant to be greater than 5 millimeters, one needs to determine whether this reflects an error in the determination of the system prism constants or reflects a problem with the phase determination quality of the instrument. If the allowable error in the determination of the prism zero constant is 10 millimeters and the allowable error in the phase determination is 5 millimeters, the possible error in the system constant correction would be approximately 11 millimeters. For this reason we believe that when the computed system constant is greater than 12 millimeters, the owner should further analyze his system and determine the prism constant by other measurements.

The system scale factor is also computed in this analysis of the data. The scale factor is composed of three separate error quantities. They are the error in the velocity of the propagation of light in a vacuum, error in the modulation frequency, and error in the refractive index. The error in the velocity of the propagation of light in a vacuum is extremely small and one which we do not have to contend with. If we have correctly measured temperature and barometric pressure, the error in the refractive index should be very close to zero; therefore, all the error which would be shown by the system scale factor would be a result of the error in the modulation frequency. The standard error in frequency would be approximately 10 megaherts [sic] or approximately an error of 5 parts per million. If the computed system scale factor is greater than 5 parts per million, one must worry about whether or not the resulting error is a function of errors in temperature and pressure. Surveyors should first determine that his temperature and barometric pressure reading equipment is properly functioning and calibrated. He should then remeasure the distances on the calibration baseline so as to reflect the different conditions. This result may then show whether the error lies with the modulation frequency or the atmospheric conditions.

The computer program also computes whether or not the statistical value of the system constant and scale factor are equal to zero. When the value is computed as statistically equal to zero, we can say that the instrument is definitely in good adjustment for that value. If the value is not equal to zero, we have to make a judgement of the equipment based on the computed value as previously outlined. The calibration report also shows the observed data, its difference from the know value and a rejection limit. The rejection limit is based on three times the standard deviation determined by this calibration procedure. Some of the values will be outside the rejection limit. This is for our use and should be disregarded by the owner of the equipment.

In summary, the owner of the equipment should consider his equipment to be satisfactorily operating if the constants are statistically equal to zero. If one or more of the constants are not equal to zero, then the owner must evaluate each of those constants to see if they are within an acceptable limit. An acceptable limit for the system constant is 11 millimeters and approximately 7 millimeters for the scale factor for most short and medium range equipment. Any greater values should be further analyzed.


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transcribed by Steven E. Weible

See transcribers comments in the article,"MODNR's EDM Baseline Comparison Rejection Limit"