CONFERENCE
AGENDA

BOOK HOTEL

PDF

Agenda

Download the printable conference agenda

Guest

Program

Download here.

Education Sessions Matrix

View a printable version of 2024 Surveyors' Conference education sessions

Conference

Exhibitors

View all exhibitors and sponsors of the 2024 Surveyors' Conference

Join PSLS to receive member rates for the conference!

Sunday January 21, 2024

3:00pm - 5:00pm: Exhibitor Registration Open (OUTSIDE OF EXHIBIT HALL)
4:00pm - 6:00pm: Registration Open (CONFECTION HALL OFFICE)
5:00pm - 7:30pm: Exhibits Open (EXHIBIT HALL)
5:00pm - 9:00pm: Social Gathering (EXHIBIT HALL)

Monday January 22, 2024

7:00am - 5:30pm..........................................................................................................REGISTRATION (CONFECTION HALL OFFICE)

7:00am - 8:15am.............................................................................................................................................BREAKFAST (EXHIBIT HALL)

7:00am - 5:45pm.....................................................................................................................................EXHIBITS OPEN (EXHIBIT HALL)

8:15am - 11:45am.....................................................................................................MONDAY MORNING CONCURRENT SESSIONS

101: Rights of Way and Prescriptive Rights.........................................................................................................AZTEC
- Presenter: Jeff Lucas
- Description: When is a right-of-way simply a burden on the servient estate and when is it an outright estate in fee, separate and distinct from the servient estate? When and how do prescriptive easements arise and are there differences between prescriptive rights in the private and in the public context? In this program real property rights will be examined, generally, and non-possessory interests created by rights-of-way and easements will be examined specifically. The classifications and the manner in which rights-of-way are created will be studied. Prescription and prescriptive rights, how they are obtained, what can be obtained, and the impact on real property rights will be examineed through case studies from across the country. Applicable statutes of limitations, tacking, statutory requirements, defenses and remedies will be examined. The impact rights-of-way and prescriptive rights have on the surveyor and the surveyor’s practice will also be discussed. Several real-world cases that cover the fundamental issues of rights-of-way and prescriptive rights will be studied. This program will be accompanied by a Power Point presentation.
- Credit: 3.5
301: Stormwater Management Methods Using HydroCAD (Part 1 of 4).................................................WILD ROSE A
- Presenter: Thomas Seybert
- Description: This 2-day workshop (broken into 4 parts) will present methods in stormwater management design for quantity control. Methods developed by the National Conservation Resource Service (NRCS) will be presented, including runoff estimates using curve numbers, travel time and time of concentration, the dimensionless unit hydrograph method for creating hydrographs, and detention basin size estimates. Additionally, NOAA Atlas 14 rainfall data, detention basin sizing, and basin outlet structure design will be addressed. The 2-day workshop uses the HydroCAD model. Participants are required to bring a Microsoft Windows-based laptop computer to the workshop and download a free HydroCAD sampler from hydrocad.net before or on the morning of the first day of the workshop. Participants should bring a hand calculator to complete some of the minor calculations. Paper copies of the notes will be helpful during workshop exercises, yet if participants work in groups of two, one group member can display the notes on their laptop (paperless) while the other can run the HydroCAD model. In this case there would be no need for printed notes. *You must take all 4 parts of this 2-day workshop
- Credit: 3.5

501. Standards of Practice....................................................................................................................MAGNOLIA CD
- Presenter: Don Groesser and Don Housley
- Description: This session will review the Standards of Practice Committee's revisions to the PSLS Manual of Practice, last update April 1998 - now the Standards of Practice, adopted by the PSLS on November 19, 2021. There will be a discussion of each section and the potential use as a basis for statutory Minimum Standards, should they be adopted legislatively in the future. Currently, 44 of 50 states have legislated Minimum Survey Standards.
- Credit: 3.5

601: Survey Processing with Bentley Systems, Inc....................................................................................EMPIRE AB
- Presenter: Kevin Jackson
- Description: This presentation goes through the process of processing GPS and Total Station data, LiDAR data, Imagery and more to provide deliverables to design engineers. Learn how survey data is processed and edited to create topo maps, terrains (surfaces), and property boundaries.
- Credit: 3.5

701: Data Workflows to/from Other Software with Civil 3D........................................................................EMPIRE CD
- Presenter: Rob Sinclair
- Description: During this course, we will discuss various workflows to get data to/from other software into Autodesk Civil 3D. Some of the topics discussed will be working with LiDAR data, conventional survey data, GIS data, machine control, existing/proposed utilities, etc. We will also discuss various other software that can be used to post-process existing conditions data from drones, LiDAR, and other reality capture devices and import those into Civil 3D.
- Credit: 3.5

8:15am - 9:45am.....................................................................................................MONDAY MORNING CONCURRENT SESSIONS

401: Colonial Surveys..........................................................................................................................MAGNOLIA AB
- Presenter: Eric Gladhill
- Description: This workshop will discuss the methods of surveying in the original land patents or grants that came from the colonial land holdings bequeathed by the English Crown. The various forms of measurement used, and the descriptions that were created by these surveys will be presented to inform the attendees on how these affect the surveys of today. Current deed descriptions and how they are used to resolve boundary locations will be shown. This workshop will also include the presentation of a case of eminent domain that went to federal court. This case concluded with somewhat of a landmark decision, in that the court ruled that private landowners had rights by adverse possession of lands held by a sovereign entity (State of Maryland).
- Credit: 1.5

201: What Are Your Business Succession Options? 5 Strategies to Consider...................................WILD ROSE B
- Presenter: Robert Wermuth
- Description: Business owners regularly meet challenges when building an enterprise. Such a venture can take two lifetimes to achieve, but ironically as retirement time approaches, these same individuals often face the biggest challenge of their lifetime - What to do with the business?

How does one choose the best succession path for the business and the best plan for themselves and their family? Fortunately, there are many available business-succession choices/plans to account for such issues:

#1 Keep the Business Within the Family

#2 Transfer the Business to a Key Employee(s)

#3 Utilize Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs)

#4 Selling to or Partnering with a Private-Equity (PE) Company

#5 Sell to or Partner with a Strategic Competitor

In this 90 minute educational presentation, we will focus on:

Creative ways to achieve your succession goals (especially when family is involved).
The tools and techniques that are available to you to achieve your goals on a tax-favorable basis.

Credit: 1.5

10:15am - 11:45am..................................................................................................MONDAY MORNING CONCURRENT SESSIONS

402: Survey of the Mason and Dixon Line..............................................................................................MAGNOLIA AB
- Presenter: Eric Gladhill
- Description: One of the greatest surveys of early colonial America took place to settle a land boundary dispute in the years between November 15,1763 and September 11,1768. The astronomers were sent over from the Greenwich Royal Observatory in England to perform the world’s first geodetic survey and set stones along the agreed-upon line of demarcation between the land grants from King Charles II to the Penns and Calverts. Recently, the Maryland Society of Surveyors (MSS) and the Pennsylvania Society of Surveyors (PSLS) formed a joint effort to assist the Maryland Geological Survey (MGS) to help inventory the remaining Mason and Dixon stones in order to have them placed on the National Historic Registry. This workshop will discuss the past and present of this historic line.
Credit: 1.5

202: Tracking Movement in a Fast Paced World.....................................................................................WILD ROSE B
- Presenter: William Derry
- Description: This is a general workshop focusing on types of structural monitoring, non-branded discussion of sensors in use, project based solutions and considerations for determining an approach and a review of active data from a operating system employing the sensors discussed.
- Credit: 1.5

11:45am - 1:00pm...........................................................................................................................................................LUNCH (EXHIBIT HALL)

1:00pm - 4:30pm..................................................................................................MONDAY AFTERNOON CONCURRENT SESSIONS

102: Title Insurance and Boundary Surveys......................................................................................................AZTEC
- Presenter: Jeff Lucas
- Description: The two most important documents relative to the ownership of property may be the Title Insurance Policy and the Boundary Survey. But what do these documents actually do for the property owner? What does the title policy actually cover and what doesn’t it cover? Does the survey of the property create any assurances for the landowner? What is the role of the ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey? These documents and other related matters will be discussed in order to answer these and other important questions.
- Credit: 3.5

302: Stormwater Management Methods Using HydroCAD (Part 2 of 4)...............................................WILD ROSE A
- Presenter: Thomas Seybert
- Description: This 2-day workshop (broken into 4 parts) will present methods in stormwater management design for quantity control. Methods developed by the National Conservation Resource Service (NRCS) will be presented, including runoff estimates using curve numbers, travel time and time of concentration, the dimensionless unit hydrograph method for creating hydrographs, and detention basin size estimates. Additionally, NOAA Atlas 14 rainfall data, detention basin sizing, and basin outlet structure design will be addressed. The 2-day workshop uses the HydroCAD model. Participants are required to bring a Microsoft Windows-based laptop computer to the workshop and download a free HydroCAD sampler from hydrocad.net before or on the morning of the first day of the workshop. Participants should bring a hand calculator to complete some of the minor calculations. Paper copies of the notes will be helpful during workshop exercises, yet if participants work in groups of two, one group member can display the notes on their laptop (paperless) while the other can run the HydroCAD model. In this case there would be no need for printed notes. *You must take all 4 parts of this 2-day workshop
- Credit: 3.5

602: Reality Modeling Photogrammetry and Computer Vision for Survey..........................................WILD ROSE B
- Presenter: Mike Barkasi
- Description: In this session we will take a deep dive into Photogremetric Reality models. We will begin by dispelling myths on accuracy and gain insight into what effects accuracy and precision and how it can be qualified. The user will learn the process to create and use Reality Models and tools available to manage and visualize live construction information in 2D, 3D and 4D., to real world feedback for tracking project performance. We will also look at combining LIDAR and Photogrametry, the limitations and benifits of each data type, to provide the quality required for your project. See how reality models are processed and shared to the downstream users such as Surveyors and Designers.
- Credit: 3.5

702: Surface Modeling with Civil 3D.......................................................................................................EMPIRE CD
- Presenter: Rob Sinclair
- Description: During this course, will discuss surface modeling workflows using Autodesk Civil 3D. Some of the topics included will be creating an existing surface from LiDAR, drones, and conventional survey using Autodesk Civil 3D. We will also discuss volume calculations, merging surfaces, proposed surfaces, etc.
- Credit: 3.5

1:00pm - 2:30pm...........................................................................................MONDAY AFTERNOON CONCURRENT SESSIONS

203: Construction Stakeouts Do's and Don'ts...................................................................................MAGNOLIA CD
- Presenter: Donald Housley and David Housley
- Description: This session will explore the "Best Management Practices" pertaining to construction stakeout services. This shall include pre-construction communication with the project owner, other professionals involved in the project and the various contractors during and through the completion of construction. Attendees' participation is encouraged related to personal experience and suggested recommendations to improve communication.
- Credit: 1.5

403A: GIS and the Surveyor; Supporting Each Other.............................................................................EMPIRE AB
- Presenter: Patrick Gahagan
- Description: This course will educate surveyors as to how to support their private and public GIS clients and government agencies as well as their own businesses. We’ll learn about data sharing, analysis and survey deliverables that increase the value of our survey data and surveys. The workshop is a shortened version of a workshop co-developed and co-presented recently at the NY State Surveyors conference by Mr. Gahagan and J. Peter Borbas, PLS, PP, owner/operator of Borbas Surveying and Mapping, LLC.
- Credit: 1.5

502: Latent Ambiguities- is it time to break up the deed geometry?...............................................MAGNOLIA AB
- Presenter: Amy Hopkins
- Description: In this session we will discuss problems in resolving a boundary when the issues don't show themselves right away, and are revealed during or after the fieldwork is done. The deed description contains clear, concise language and creates a closed geometric figure. Then some extrinsic evidence comes to light and applying the deed description to the ground is no longer a simple task. Breaking up the deed geometry is usually a last resort. But sometimes it has to be done to hold the physical evidence found in the field and controlling calls in the description.
- Credit: 1.5

3:00pm - 4:30pm.............................................................................................MONDAY AFTERNOON CONCURRENT SESSIONS

204: Enhancing Survey Efficiency: Integrating UAS into Your Data Collection Workflow.................MAGNOLIA AB
- Presenter: Bryan Hazelwood
- Description: This session will be a quick dive into what it takes to establish a UAS program from the ground up.
  - Capabilities of UAS related to mapping
  - Choosing the correct equipment
  - Plugging in the correct people
  - FAA Part 107 Overview
  - Setting up a UAS Operations Manual
  - UAS preflight procedures
  - UAS field procedures
  - FAA hot topic review
- Credit: 1.5

403B: Simplifying GIS: A Primer for Professionals................................................................................EMPIRE AB
- Presenter: Jeffrey Horneman
- Description: The class is designed to enable surveyors to better understand the role of GIS both within Architecture and Engineering (A&E) projects and outside of these traditional standards. Students will gain a grasp of usage and limitations of existing data, and creation of their own GIS datasets. Real world empirical data will be used to show actual examples. There will be a question and answer period afterwards. There will also be information for on-site class availability.
- Credit: 1.5

503: Land Surveyor Professional Licensing - Complaint, Investigation and Disciplinary Processes...MAGNOLIA CD
- Presenter: Ray Michalowski
- Description: This presentation will focus on the filing, administration, handling, prosecution and adjudication of professional complaints by the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs generally and the Pennsylvania State Board of Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists, with a concentration on Land Surveyor related disciplinary complaints, investigations and cases before the State Board.
- Credit: 1.5

5:00pm - 5:45pm............................................................................................................RECEPTION & NETWORKING (EXHIBIT HALL)

6:00pm - 8:15pm..............................................................DINNER & INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS & AWARDS (EXHIBIT HALL)

8:15pm - 10:30pm......................................................................................MEMBER APPRECIATION PARTY (COCOA BALLROOM)

Tuesday January 23, 2024

7:00am - 5:30pm.............................................................................................................REGISTRATION (CONFECTION HALL OFFICE)

7:00am - 8:15am..............................................................................................................................................BREAKFAST (EXHIBIT HALL)

7:00am - 5:45pm.....................................................................................................................................EXHIBITS OPEN (EXHIBIT HALL)

8:15am - 11:45am....................................................................................................TUESDAY MORNING CONCURRENT SESSIONS

103: Expert Witness Testimony for Surveyors and Engineers............................................................................AZTEC
- Presenter: Jeff Luca
- Description: The role of the engineer or surveyor as expert witness will be studied and explored. The basis of this study will be the Federal Rules of Evidence (FRE) and the Federal Rules of Civil Procedures (FRCP). Currently, 42 (or more) of the 50 states have adopted these rules as their own thereby rendering the Federal Rules highly relevant in any discussion of expert witness testimony. This seminar will go through the basics of a civil lawsuit from initial complaint, the discovery process, and the trial. The role of the expert as a witness and the testimony that the expert can give under the rules will be explored. Ten fundamental questions that every expert witness must know before testifying will be asked and answered. At least four pivotal court cases on the issue of expert witness testimony will be studied and discussed. OBJECTIVE: To enhance professional competency and improve practitioner’s knowledge of the law as it relates to the practice of land surveying.
- Credit: 3.5

205: Riparian Boundary Retracement - From a Land Surveyor's Point of View...........................................CRYSTAL A
- Presenter: Donald Housley, David Housley, and Jeffrey Horneman
- Description: This session will provide instruction and discussion on the pre-project research and the understanding of the deliverable. We will also discuss the process through the retracement of property lines along Riparian Boundaries in Pennsylvania.
- Credit: 3.5

303: Stormwater Management Methods Using HydroCAD (Part 3 of 4)...................................................MAGNOLIA D
- Presenter: Thomas Seybert
- Description: This 2-day workshop (broken into 4 parts) will present methods in stormwater management design for quantity control. Methods developed by the National Conservation Resource Service (NRCS) will be presented, including runoff estimates using curve numbers, travel time and time of concentration, the dimensionless unit hydrograph method for creating hydrographs, and detention basin size estimates. Additionally, NOAA Atlas 14 rainfall data, detention basin sizing, and basin outlet structure design will be addressed. The 2-day workshop uses the HydroCAD model. Participants are required to bring a Microsoft Windows-based laptop computer to the workshop and download a free HydroCAD sampler from hydrocad.net before or on the morning of the first day of the workshop. Participants should bring a hand calculator to complete some of the minor calculations. Paper copies of the notes will be helpful during workshop exercises, yet if participants work in groups of two, one group member can display the notes on their laptop (paperless) while the other can run the HydroCAD model. In this case there would be no need for printed notes. *You must take all 4 parts of this 2-day workshop
- Credit: 3.5

504: Practical Geodesy for Practical Surveyors............................................................................................EMPIRE AB
- Presenters: Dave Doyle
- Description: This presentation details the historical and contemporary developments of the horizontal and vertical geodetic datums of the United States including: the North American Datum, North American Datum of 1927 (NAD 27), North American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83), the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 (NGVD 29) and the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD 88), as well as the accepted global system, the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF). The session will highlight significant changes in measurement and positioning technologies and their impact on the development of reference ellipsoids, geoid models, and contemporary high accuracy reference frame enhancements. The presentation is designed to provide a foundation for further discussions that will focus on the rationale for national reference system changes by the National Geodetic Survey now scheduled for 2025.
- Credit: 3.5

703: Surface Modeling in Carlson Software.............................................................................................WILD ROSE A
- Presenters: Mike Hyman & Mark Fisher
- Description: Attendees gain knowledge on how to create an effective contour map with modern software package (Carlson Software). We will review and interpret the survey data needed for basic surface modeling creation. How does 2D and 3D data effect your Surface Modeling and Contour Map? Surfaces from Point-Cloud Data will also be shown with workflow objectives for ‘Contour Map Creation’. Terminology such as DTM and TIN will be explained along with how to merge different 3D surfaces. Earthwork Volume calculation methods will be explained and learned. The session will focus on the various tools that exist to help modern surveyors better understand 3D components for land surveying projects and how to better manipulate it to provide a better product for their clients. We will then finish up on deliverables to various types of industry software products.
- Credit: 3.5

8:15am - 9:45am........................................................................................................TUESDAY MORNING CONCURRENT SESSIONS

404: Deriving Astronomical Azimuths from Polaris Observations..........................................................WILD ROSE B
- Presenter: Kevin Brockett
- Description: Participants will receive an introduction to fundamentals of celestial observations for surveying applications, with a focus on utilizing direct field observations of the star Polaris to derive the astronomical azimuths of lines on the ground. Following the presentation of underlying concepts and sources of ephemeris data, a real-world case study will serve as the framework to guide participants through the data-reduction methods outlined in The Astronomical Almanac and The Star Almanac for Land Surveyors. Additional real-world data will be provided to participants for self-study exercises.
- Credit: 1.5

603: Mapping It Out With Mobile Mapping..................................................................................................EMPIRE CD
- Presenter: Brent Fico
- Description: The method (art) of data capture has greatly changed over the years. One of the most efficient ways to collect lidar data is utilizing Mobile Mapping Technology. This session will look at various mobile mapping technologies that are available on the market today and their associated workflows. We will conclude the presentation by looking at customer stories (case studies) and how they used Mobile Mapping Technology to maximize their time and profits.
- Credit: 1.5

10:15am - 11:45am..................................................................................................TUESDAY MORNING CONCURRENT SESSIONS

405: Basis of Bearings..............................................................................................................................WILD ROSE B
- Presenter: Scott Reeser
- Description: This session will review the different types of Basis of Bearings used by geomatics professionals. The session will blend discussion on the different methodologies along with a brief review of the mathematical processes used in each method. Potential errors in each methodology will be discussed. Attendees to this session are encouraged to participate in the discussion on the viability of each method as well as share their personal experiences in dealing with different methods. This session is intended to be a review for the experienced surveyor as well as the up and coming surveyor.
- Credit: 1.5

604: Laser Scanning – Which Problem Solving Solution is Right for You?..................................................EMPIRE CD
- Presenter: Ken Fronheiser
- Description: The method (art) of data capture has greatly changed over the years. One of the more advanced ways of collecting data is to use a Laser Scanner. From a Professional Land Surveyor turned Sales Consultant, I am often asked what the difference is between “these scanners”. When considering taking the “dive” into this type of advanced technology, it can be difficult to choose the scanner that meets all of your needs. Laser scanners today sit on tripods, are mounted on top of vehicles or can be handheld. This session will look at various laser scanners that Trimble offers and their associated workflows. We will conclude the presentation by looking at customer stories (case studies) and how they used laser scanners to maximize their time and profits.
- Credit: 1.5

11:45am - 1:00pm...................................................................................................................................................LUNCH (EXHIBIT HALL)

1:00pm - 4:30pm.................................................................................................TUESDAY AFTERNOON CONCURRENT SESSIONS

104: Mock Trial I..................................................................................................................................MAGNOLIA ABC
- Presenter: Jeff Lucas
- Description: This mock trial is loosely based on the case of Dowdell v. Cotham, a case involving neighbors who for over 20 years lived in happy-peaceful-coexistence, until one of the neighbors hired a surveyor to survey his property. After that—well—let’s just say that things were never the same.
  This seminar will explore the world of civil litigation through a mock trial based on a real-life boundary dispute case. Through audience participation, volunteers will play the roles of attorneys, landowners, lay witnesses and expert land surveyor witnesses; the seminar leader plays the role of judge. The remainder of the audience will be divided into jury pools, each with a foreman spokesperson. The size and number of juries will be determined by the size of the remaining audience. The trial is loosely based on the case of Dowdell v. Cotham, with elements of other boundary dispute cases utilized as appropriate. The trial will be held and the juries will deliberate. Following deliberation, each jury will then render their verdict, and discuss their reasoning. Each jury will be required to field questions from the trial participants and other juries, and defend their verdict. This seminar is designed to demystify the litigation process and explain the rules of engagement that will be used in court. Volunteers are required to play the roles of the attorneys, the parties and the witnesses.
- Credit: 3.5

206: Technical Elements of Client Selection and Communication................................................................CRYSTAL A
- Presenter: Mark Amirault
- Description: During this course, the attendees will take away some keys to open and honest communications with their clients and prospects, along with tips on contract reviews and negotiations. Through review and examination of some onerous client drafted contracts, this open forum course will allow for attendees to discuss ways the surveyor can confidently modify these contracts.
- Credit: 3.5

304: Stormwater Management Methods Using HydroCAD (Part 4 of 4)....................................................MAGNOLIA D
- Presenter: Thomas Seybert
- Description: This 2-day workshop (broken into 4 parts) will present methods in stormwater management design for quantity control. Methods developed by the National Conservation Resource Service (NRCS) will be presented, including runoff estimates using curve numbers, travel time and time of concentration, the dimensionless unit hydrograph method for creating hydrographs, and detention basin size estimates. Additionally, NOAA Atlas 14 rainfall data, detention basin sizing, and basin outlet structure design will be addressed. The 2-day workshop uses the HydroCAD model. Participants are required to bring a Microsoft Windows-based laptop computer to the workshop and download a free HydroCAD sampler from hydrocad.net before or on the morning of the first day of the workshop. Participants should bring a hand calculator to complete some of the minor calculations. Paper copies of the notes will be helpful during workshop exercises, yet if participants work in groups of two, one group member can display the notes on their laptop (paperless) while the other can run the HydroCAD model. In this case there would be no need for printed notes. *You must take all 4 parts of this 2-day workshop.
- Credit: 3.5

406: Ethics for the Geomatics Professional..................................................................................................EMPIRE AB
- Presenter: Scott Reeser
- Description: This session will discuss ethical considerations for surveyors but also applies to engineers. Attendees will review published definitions of Professional Ethics, as well as cultivate a group definition. The Code of Ethics included within the Engineer, Surveyor and Geologist Registration Law will be reviewed, as well as ethical codes from other surveying and engineering professional organizations. Discussion on the development of surveyor ethics will be discussed. This session is geared toward group participation, the presenter will encourage participation by all attendees in a manner that encourages thought and exchange of ideas.
- Credit: 3.5

505: Rationale for and Expectations of the Planned Geodetic Datum Changes..................................................AZTEC
- Presenter: Dave Doyle
- Description: Enhancements and additions to the network of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) including: the U.S. NAVSTAR Global Positioning System, Russian GLONASS, European Union GALILEO and China's BeiDou are significantly improving the use and positional integrity of space-based positioning systems. To meet the anticipated demands for an improved geospatial framework that these developments will accommodate, the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) is implementing a strategy for the modernization of the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS) rigorously aligned with the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF). Among the various topics outlined in this presentation are discussions of the rationale for and magnitude of the anticipated horizontal and vertical positional changes and how these may impact existing federal, state, and local spatial data management systems (GIS).
- Credit: 3.5

704: Data Flow, Data Processing and More with Carlson Software.......................................................WILD ROSE AB
- Presenter: Mike Hyman and Jesse Kozlowski, PLS
- Description: Let’s look within Carlson Software on some of the more important functionality related to ‘Data Flow and Data Processing.’ We will start with some important project setup settings for starting up your boundary, topographic and general mapping projects. We will then move onto best practices on file exchange and data preparation from Carlson’s field Software SurvCE/SurvPC into Carlson Survey. Other field software solutions will be discussed for best deliverables into Carlson Desktop Software. We will also discuss the importing and exporting of Civil 3D files, what to look for and ask for. LandXML data exchange formats will be discussed and reviewed. PASDA Data Import options will also be discussed and the options within Carlson to best utilize the various types of data sets available ie. Images, ESRI Shape Files, Point Clouds, Contours for import into Carlson. From there we will review processing and utilizing raw data files from total station and GPS data sets. Reducing and processing raw data files (.rw5). A brief review of Compass and Least Sq Adjustments will also be reviewed within Carlson Survey. Deed Entry and Deed Correlation processing options will be reviewed. We will then finish up with some of the enhanced capabilities within Carlson’s Field-To-Finish for final mapping options. Overall, this class will highlight some of the years training events that Carlson Software has done in Pennsylvania. Additionally, items will also be reviewed with your input as time allows.
- Credit: 3.5

1:00pm - 2:30pm.................................................................................................TUESDAY AFTERNOON CONCURRENT SESSIONS

605: What Tools are Available to Create an Effective Deliverable?..............................................................EMPIRE CD
- Presenter: Ken Fronheiser & Richard Johnston
- Description: In recent years technology has really "taken off". The advancement in both hardware and software has allowed the surveyor to combine these technologies to create a cost effective deliverable. This presentation is designed to take a look at what hardware and software options are available and different workflows that can be used to create a comprehensive and cost effective deliverable.
- Credit: 1.5

3:00pm - 4:30pm.................................................................................................TUESDAY AFTERNOON CONCURRENT SESSIONS

606: Obtaining and Maintaining Multiple State Licenses............................................................................EMPIRE CD
- Presenter: Don Groesser
- Description: The presenter, Don Groesser, has active professional land surveyor licenses in six states, including Illinois, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, New York, and Arizona. In addition, he is the Corporate Survey/Geospatial Practice Lead for Civil & Environment Consultants, Inc., that includes a team of over 180, with 35 professional land surveyors licensed in 26 states. He will step you through various state requirements, license applications, test preparation, managing continuing education requirements, and using the NCEES website for all of the above needs.
- Credit: 1.5

5:00pm - 5:45pm..........................................................................................................RECEPTION & NETWORKING (EXHIBIT HALL)

6:00pm - 8:30pm.......................................................................................................DINNER, RAFFLE & AUCTION (EXHIBIT HALL)

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

7:00am - 11:45m......................................................................................................................................REGISTRATION (EXHIBIT HALL)

7:00am - 8:15am............................................................................................................................................BREAKFAST (EXHIBIT HALL)

8:15am - 11:45am.............................................................................................WEDNESDAY MORNING CONCURRENT SESSIONS

207: Boundary Retracement Along Roads: Public, Private, Abandoned and Unopened.....................................AZTEC
- Presenter: D. Robert Davidson
- Description: Unopened roads are often called for as boundaries. How do you determine who holds title to an unopened road? Should the boundary be the edge or the center of the unopened road? This presentation will discuss the difference between Record Title and Legal Title and will examine how to determine who may own the beds of unopened roads, streets and alleys. Court cases law related to these issues will be reviewed.
- Credit: 3.5

305: Certification and Plan Notes.............................................................................................................WILD ROSE B
- Presenter: Donald Housley and David Housley
- Description: This session will explore the understanding and impact pertaining to certifications and plan notes on land survey drawings. This shall include pre-survey communication with the project owner (client) and other professionals involved in the project during and through the completion of a survey and delivery of preliminary and final product. Attendee participation is encouraged related to personal experience and suggested recommendations to improve the process and communications.
- Credit: 3.5

506: NSRS Modernization - Preparing for New Datums..............................................................................EMPIRE CD
- Presenter: Jeff Jalbrzikowski
- Description: This session will give an overview of the upcoming changes to the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS), our Nation’s geodetic infrastructure. We will start with reviewing NAD83 and NAVD88, then move into explanations of the modernized datums (NATRF2022 and NAPGD2022) that will replace the current ones. We will review what is changing but also how the future of the NSRS is somewhat similar to what you already know. The concepts of Survey Epoch Coordinates (SECs) and Reference Epoch Coordinates (RECs) will be explained. Jeff will wrap up with a discussion of the major changes that SPCS2022 will bring as compared to your current SPCS83 in Pennsylvania.
- Credit: 3.5

705: Basic Grading for the Field Technician.............................................................................................WILD ROSE A
- Presenters: Bob Miller
- Description: This session will provide enough skill sets to help the field technician understand and apply basic grading to everyday survey activities. It will include:
  - Terms and definitions
  - Reading and understanding grading plans
  - Topographic elevations - how to's
  - Field observations
  - Quality control
- Credit: 3.5

8:15am - 9:45am.............................................................................................WEDNESDAY MORNING CONCURRENT SESSIONS

105: PA BaseMap 2030 and the Roles of the Professional Surveyor in its Creation and Maintenance.....EMPIRE AB
- Presenter: Eric Jespersen
- Description: Surveyors have skills and knowledge important in many facets of what is known as the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI). The Pennsylvania manifestation of the NSDI has been in development for over 25 years, and professional surveyors have been at the heart of it whether directly aware that they were or not. Current activities where survey expertise would inform decision-making across the state include: civic boundary database improvement, communicating implications of the pending geodetic datum shift, benefits of aggregated parcels statewide, and future manifestations of real-time CORS networks. The Pennsylvania State Geospatial Coordinating Board (GeoBoard) is actively promoting PA BaseMap 2030 as our component of the NSDI. We will discuss and decide upon ways to get and keep surveyors involved in PA BaseMap 2030.
- Credit: 1.5

607: Business Management Federal Regulations (Virtual)...................................................................MAGNOLIA AB
- Presenter: Knud Hermansen
- Description: Many surveyors own what is considered a small business or employed in a small business. Education programs often fail to provide surveyors with the information needed to start or manage a small business. This workshop will focus on legal considerations for starting or managing a small business.
- Credit: 1.5

10:15am - 11:45am..........................................................................................WEDNESDAY MORNING CONCURRENT SESSIONS

106: GIS for Surveyors..................................................................................................................................EMPIRE AB
- Presenter: Kevin Chappell
- Description: Readily available geospatial information and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have changed the way surveyors work. Surveyors use GIS and other geospatial tools for deed and parcel research and project planning every day. The power of these tools goes far beyond initial project setup. This session will discuss the fact that GIS and surveying are complementary technologies, not adversaries. Real world examples of how surveyors can use GIS in their own projects and get involved in GIS projects will be presented.
- Credit: 1.5

608: Rules of Construction in Boundary Retracement (Virtual)............................................................MAGNOLIA AB
- Presenter: Knud Hermansen
- Description: This seminar explains court-established boundary retracement principles and procedures known as the Rules of Construction. The seminar will review the rules of construction as they apply to surveying practice. Priority of evidence, analysis of evidence, and reporting of a defensible opinion will be explained.
- Credit: 1.5

11:45am......................................................................................................................................................................................ADJOURNMENT

Hotel

HOTEL
INFORMATION

Hershey Lodge
325 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033

Hershey Lodge: 325 University Dr., Hershey, PA 17033

Group Rate: $173.00 plus 11% taxes (Single/Double)

Hotel reservations can be made by calling the hotel directly at 855-729-3108; ask for the Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors room block. Hotel reservations over the phone can be made seven days a week from 8 AM – 8 PM.

Credit cards are charged a one night's advance deposit including tax at the time of booking.

Conference Policy

CONFERENCE
POLICIES

Refund Policy: Refunds of the full conference registration fee will be made for cancellations received in writing by December 22, 2023. After Dec 22, the individual or organization will be held responsible for the fee. No telephone cancellations will be accepted. Anyone who is registered but cannot attend may send a substitute with prior written notice.

Access: If you anticipate needing special accommodations due to a physical challenge, or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact PSLS at (717) 412-1946 before your visit.

Course/Activity Cancellation: PSLS may cancel or postpone any course or activity because of insufficient enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances. If a program is canceled or postponed, refunds are decided on a case-by-case basis. PSLS cannot be held responsible for any related costs, charges, or expenses, including cancellation/change charges assessed by airlines or travel agencies.

Certificates: There will be NO paper certificates distributed at the conference. All certificates will be available in your online PSLS account. Certificates of completion will be issued only to individuals signing each course attendance sheet. If a workshop has more than one session, you MUST attend ALL SESSIONS to receive credit for the workshop. PARTIAL CREDIT WILL NOT BE GIVEN.

Continuing Education Credit:

It is up to each individual to determine what credits to submit for license renewal based on the rules of each state. You will receive a certificate for each session you attend, but you must determine whether the credits count for the states you are licensed in. More information is below.

Pennsylvania: No pre-approval is available/needed for CE credits. Practice building or office management classes may not be eligible towards PA license credit according to Section 4.5 of the Engineer, Land Surveyor and Geologist Registration Law [Act]. It is up to each individual to determine what credits to submit for license renewal.
Maryland: PSLS is a pre-approved provider.
Delaware: PSLS is a pre-approved provider.
New Jersey: All courses were submitted to the registration board and were approved. Session 403B was added after the original submittal but will be reviewed at the January board meeting for approval.
New York: PSLS is an approved NYSED sponsor. It is up to each individual license to review what counts for credit in NY. Below is a summary of what counts and doesn't count for credit.

https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/engineering/continuing-education-q-a#18-what-are-appropriate-subjects-for-continuing-e

Not all courses and educational activities offered by an approved sponsor are acceptable for continuing education credit in New York State. Courses and educational activities must contribute to the professional practice of professional engineering or land surveying. The subject matter of the course or educational activity must be related to professional practice and contribute to the development or maintenance of professional knowledge. Subject areas that are not so related, such as, project management related to improving/maximizing profitability and professional fees; marketing and public relations; expanding a design professional's business; laws related to arbitration, mediation, liens and limiting the design professional's liability (unless they are related to safeguarding the health, safety, and welfare of the public); real estate licensing; basic Auto CAD; personal, estate or financial planning; zoning as it relates to increasing a developer or engineer/land surveyor's profitability; design build and/or alternative delivery methods (unless it includes information on the laws related to design build and its limitations in New York State) are non-acceptable subjects.

Acceptable subjects may include:

Professional Engineering:
- aerospace engineering, agricultural engineering, architectural engineering, bioengineering, ceramic engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, construction engineering, control systems engineering, electrical/computer engineering, environmental engineering, fire protection engineering, geological engineering, industrial engineering, manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, materials/metallurgical engineering, mining/mineral engineering, naval architecture/marine engineering, nuclear/radiological engineering, ocean engineering, petroleum engineering, software engineering, structural engineering, systems engineering, architecture, land surveying; or other matters of law and/or ethics which contribute to the professional practice in engineering and the health, safety, and/or welfare of the public; and in other topics which contribute to the professional practice of engineering as such practice is defined in section 7201 of the Education Law.
Land Surveying:
- Land surveying methods and techniques; or other matters of law and/or ethics which contribute to the practice of land surveying and the health safety, and/or welfare of the public; and in other topics which contribute to the professional practice of land surveying as such practice is defined in section 7203 of the Education Law.

Ohio: Ohio does not pre-approve continuing education providers or activities. The course certificate should be submitted for credit.
Virginia: PSLS is a pre-approved provider.
Other States: Individuals must apply to other states on their own. There is no guarantee that workshops will be approved. Course credit for all states is the responsibility of the individual licensee.

Consent to Use of Photographic Images: Registration and attendance at, or participation in, the 2024 PSLS Surveyors’ Conference constitutes an agreement by the registrant to PSLS’s use and distribution (both now and in the future) of the registrant or attendee's image in photographs.

CONFERENCE AGENDA