Capitol Monument Plaque

Here is a picture of the plaque that will be placed in the capitol to provide some background information on the monument in the floor. The monument is in the lower level of the capitol under the center-ish of the main rotunda. I'm not sure where the plaque will be placed. Click on the picture for a larger image.

Meeting coming up...

The next MASC meeting is Tuesday, March 13th, at Arnold and O'Sheridan, where we will discuss the MASC constitution and bylaws. Please send in any agenda items to add to the discussion by March 6th.

Blizzard 2007...Digging Out?

Well the big blizzard is over and it is time to go back to work. Looks like we have anywhere from 12.9" in Madison to 16.8" in De Forest. I'm wondering how other surveyors cope with the snow days and maintain profitability. I able to stay inside and eat doughnuts...er...I mean do engineering work. What do you do? Spend time digging, close traverses in the office (like you still do it by hand), equipment maintenance, or do you just stay home in bed.

A Message From Dan Rodman...

Hi folks,

For my own benefit and company training, I have been gradually compiling a report on the records and indexes at the Dane County Surveyor's Office. I have learned a lot from others in the process, and realize that there are older records that are not indexed in the computerized database but are still relevant.

I think this might make a good MASC project. We could circulate a draft and get information from all the world-wise veterans before they retire, form a committee to draft a report, perhaps including recommendations for minimum survey research depending on the area, and put MASC's stamp of approval on it. It would be a useful resource, shortening learning curves and encouraging better surveying practice (or at least making low-bidders feel guilty about skimping on research!).

I think something around 10-20 pages would be sufficient.

Dan F, I wouldn't want a project like this to overstep your authority, but I also realize you are busy.

Also, it might not be the best idea to have lots more people digging through old records that haven't been scanned and preserved yet.

Any thoughts?
Dan Rodman

WLIA Annual Conference

The WLIA annual conference will be held March 7-9 in Appleton, WI at the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel. The preliminary program and registration form will provide more detail on the conference. Here is more information on upcoming WLIA events and the WLIA in general. The Conference has a Surveying and Mapping track with topics that are important to the surveying community. Land Surveyors who are members of WSLS, should also consider joining WLIA. As a Land Surveyor, you are a member of the land information community and they need your input.

WSLS Foundation Reference CD

Jerry Mahun gave an excellent presentation on the WSLS Foundation Reference CD last night. If you wish to purchase your own copy, or want more information on the WSLS foundation, contact the WSLS foundation.

The MASC Blog Lives!

I'm just making a quick post to let people know this blog will continue. MASC members seemed enthusiastic about the blog and the ability to post comments on issues of the day. My intent is to post at least three times a week so please send me items of interest to post.

Meeting Tonight!

The Madison Area Surveyor's Council will be having a meeting tonight at 7:00 PM at Arnold and O'Sheridan's office located at 1111 Deming Way, Madison Wisconsin. The program will include a presentation by Jerry Mahun on the the reference CD put out by the WSLS foundation. CD's will be on sale for a $50 donation to the WSLS foundation at the meeting. The MASC business meeting will follow the presentation the agenda is available here for your reference. For more information on MASC.