Topographic Surveys Under Tree Canopies Within Portion Of

Caraga State University - Main Campus

Field Plan

Submitted to the Department of Geodetic Engineering

College of Engineering and Geosciences

Caraga State University

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements

Ge196 – Survey Camp

Pablo, Kurt Clyde S.

Pacheco, John Paul Elifer G.
Paular, Jio Klyde T.
Pendijito, Abegail A.
Pero, Diamond Phillipps D.
Ondoy, Remle Nyl F.
Sabayday, Mariah Niña S.
Sevilles, Aljun J.
Soso, Richielyn May G.
Tubo, Arvin S.
Tutor, Kissha E.
Yamit, Kayezelyn

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Field Plan No. 1

Field Plan Title: TOPOGRAPHIC SURVEYS UNDER TREE CANOPIES WITHIN PORTION
OF CARAGA STATE UNIVERSITY – MAIN CAMPUS

Prepared by: Pablo, Kurt Clyde S.

Pacheco, John Paul Elifer G.
Paular, Jio Klyde T.
Pendijito, Abegail A.
Pero, Diamond Phillipps D.
Ondoy, Remle Nyl F.
Sabayday, Mariah Niña S.
Sevilles, Aljun J.
Soso, Richielyn May G.
Tubo, Arvin S.
Tutor, Kissha E.
Yamit, Kayezelyn

Submitted to: Engr. Eric Dave D. Doria

GE-196 Instructor

I. OBJECTIVES

Students will use this surveying operation as a practical application to gain a

comprehensive understanding of topographic surveying and develop effective execution
skills based on the concepts and methodologies learned in this course. The purpose of
this surveying operation is to serve as a practical application. Students will be able to
operate surveying instruments, establish Ground Control Points (GCPs), perform
adjustment computations on data observations, and solve problems in on-field scenarios
after successfully completing this course, which has as its primary objective the equipping
of students with the necessary skills. In order for the students to accomplish these goals,
they will conduct a topographic survey across the Caraga State University-Main Campus.
More specifically, they will concentrate on areas that are dominated by tree canopies, such
as Area 1 (which is located behind Annex 2 building) and Area 3 (which is located behind
Kinaadman Building). The presence of trees in this particular area provides a special set
of issues since they have the potential to obscure lines of sight and reduce the precision
and accuracy of data collection. As a result, the most important aspect of this surveying
work is to collect data on the terrain hidden by tree canopies that is extremely accurate
and precise, as well as to produce a Technical Report and Computations based on the
findings of the survey operations conducted at the given location.

II. EXPECTED OUTPUTS

Topographic surveys under tree canopies on Caraga State University-Main

Campus are difficult due to low visibility and GPS signal interference. Thus, ground-based
surveying may yield more precise topography data in these places. These surveys aim to
precisely map the ground under tree canopies. The expected outputs from these surveys
include:

1. Topographic Map: Detailed profiles of Kinaadman Hall's rear and the DOST's front
beneath the tree canopy, highlighting elevation variations, slopes, and other pertinent
aspects. It also includes visual representations of contours, elevation points, and

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 various topographic features of the area. This topography map is useful for land use
planning, infrastructure design, and environmental assessment.
2. Digital Terrain Model (DTM): A high-resolution DTM created for the under-tree canopy
areas behind Kinaadman Hall and in front of the DOST building. The DTM shows the
three-dimensional landscape, including elevation values and spatial relationships. It
aids in exact analysis, visualization, and modeling.
3. Technical Report and Computations: Detailed computations, techniques, and
observations of the survey operation. This report details survey steps, obstacles, and
data analysis. It provides transparency, accuracy, and traceability of survey results for
future analysis and decision-making.

These surveys can help several sectors. The data can help urban planners
evaluate construction projects, choose development sites, and plan infrastructure.
Forestry managers can improve land management and environmental conservation by
understanding the terrain. Survey results aid engineering, site design, and resource
assessments.

III. DATE OF SURVEY:

The survey will be carried out between the dates of July 10 and July 28, 2023,
which is a total of 18 calendar days.

IV. LOCATION:

Canopied parts of the Caraga State University Main Campus, such as Area 1
(which is situated behind Annex 2 building) and Area 3 (which is situated behind
Kinaadman Building) are the area selected to be surveyed and evaluated by the survey
party.

Figure 1. Aerial View of the Area 1 Survey Location (left), and Actual Survey Location (right)

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 Figure 2. Aerial View of the Area 3 Survey Location (left), and Actual Survey Location (right)

V. EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS

Table 1. List of Equipment and Materials

EQUIPMENT UNIT
GNSS 2
Automatic Level 1
Total Station 1
Tripod 3
Radio Antenna 2
Battery 3
Plumb Bob 1
Laptop 1
Steel Tape 1
Stakes 50
Umbrella Nails 50
Cellphone 2
Stadia Rod 2
Prism 2
Controller 1
VI. SURVEY TEAM
Table 2. survey personnel within a survey team, along with their corresponding roles and responsibilities
Members Role Responsibilities
The leader of the survey party is
responsible for supervising and
managing the entirety of the
survey operation to ensure that it
runs efficiently.
The person who is responsible for
CHIEF OF PARTY
the logistical and technical
components of the survey field
activity manages its requirements
and solves any problems that
Richielyn May G. Soso may occur as a result of the
activity.

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 Supervisors (assigned instructors)
are consulted before conducting a
survey project to seek their
guidance and approval.
The survey report is thoroughly
reviewed by the chief to verify its
correctness, completeness,
accuracy, and compliance with
technical standards. This person is
also responsible for submitting the
final survey report.

The individual who will assist the

Chief of Party throughout the
entirety of the survey field activity
in order to successfully complete
the task that has been assigned to
ASSISTANT the survey party.
CHIEF OF PARTY Performs the duties of the Chief of
Party in his or her absence.

Aljun J. Sevilles

Surveying instruments, such as

the GNSS Receiver, Digital Level,
or Automatic Level, and Total
Station, must be calibrated,
leveled, and operated in
accordance with the job
description.
INSTRUMENT Performs a check on the
MAN instruments to ensure that they are
in good condition and are set to
the appropriate adjustment or
program so that they may be
utilized in a surveying operation.
Remle Nyl F. Ondoy
When being sighted, the stadia,
leveling rod, or prism is held in this
hand.

Holds the stadia/leveling

rod/prism, while the instrument
man takes measurements.
Ensure the stability and
consistency of the rod's height
ROD MAN throughout the surveying process,
(foresight) preventing any unintended
fluctuations or alterations.
Responsible for accurately
measuring distances between
Kurt Clyde F. Pablo points using a surveying rod or
& tape measure.

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Jio Klyde T. Paular

Holds the stadia/leveling

rod/prism, while the instrument
man takes measurements.
Ensure the stability and
consistency of the rod's height
ROD MAN throughout the surveying process,
(backsight) preventing any unintended
fluctuations or alterations.
Responsible for accurately
measuring distances between
Abegail A. Pendijito points using a surveying rod or
tape measure.

It is the duty to remove any trees

and other obstacles that are
blocking the line of sight.
During the entirety of the survey
field operation, makes certain that
LINEMAN
the safety of the survey team is
(reconnaissance)
maintained at the survey site.

Arvin S. Tubo

Maintains a record of all sketches,

measurements, and observations
made while the survey operation is
being carried out.
RECORDER / Maintains a comprehensive table
DOCUMENTER of schedules listing all of the
actions that are carried out by the
members of the survey party

Kissha E. Tutor

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Pacheco, John Paul Elifer G.
Diamond Phillipps D. Pero
Mariah Niña P. Sabayday
Kayezelyn Yamit
In a fieldwork operation, there is a
role assigned to perform
computations and analyze survey
data. This individual is responsible
for processing the data and
DATA drawing meaningful conclusions
PROCESSOR from it. Their role involves
conducting calculations and
interpreting the results to gain
insights about the surveyed area.
Utilizes scientific calculators and
laptop.
Process the acquired data into
maps.
Precisely depict the geographic
landscape, encompassing the
intricate details of physical
features, boundaries, and
MAPPER
distinctive attributes that define a
specific area.
Assist in identifying suitable
locations for placing points.
Compile and analyze the collected
data, interpret the results, and
communicate the information
effectively in a written format.
Review and edit survey reports and
other documents for clarity,
accuracy, and coherence.
Check the grammatical errors,
technical inconsistencies, and
ensure adherence to industry
TECHNICAL standards and guidelines.
WRITER/S Ensure that valuable information is
readily accessible and can be
shared among team members for
future reference.
Assigns specific parts of the
technical report to each team
member, ensuring clear
delineation of roles and facilitating
a cohesive and coordinated
approach to the report's
development.
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VII. ACTIVITIES AND TIMELINE (temporary)
Table 3. Timeline of Activities ( from July 10, 2023 – July 28, 2023)

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VIII. DETAILED SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITY (temporary)
Table 4. Detailed schedule for ground truth data collection

Personnel Equipment and

Date Time Activity
Involved Materials Needed
8:00am-8:30am Assembly All
Checking of instrument All
8:30am-9:00am
Delegation of task All All Listed in Table 1
Stakes, Machete, Safety
Start of Vest, Boots, Field
9:00am-12:00pm All
07/10/23 Reconnaissance Notebook, Ballpen,
Monday Laptop, Cellphone
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch All
Stakes, Machete, Safety
Continuation of
Vest, Boots, Field
Reconnaissance All
1:00pm-5:00pm Notebook, Ballpen,
Surveying
Laptop, Cellphone
Making of Survey Plan All Laptop
Stakes, Machete, Safety
Continuation of Survey Vest, Boots, Field
8:00am-12:00pm All
Plan Notebook, Ballpen,
07/11/23 Laptop, Cellphone
Tuesday
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch All
Submission of Survey Chief of
1:00pm-5:00pm Laptop
Plan Party

Assembly All
8:00am-9:00am Checking up and
All
setting up of instrument
GNSS Receiver,
Configuration of GNSS
All Notebook, Laptop,
base instrument
Ballpen, Cellphone
9:00am-12:00pm
GNSS Receiver,
07/12/23 Configuration of GNSS
All Notebook, Laptop,
Wednesday rover instrument
Ballpen, Cellphone
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch All
Ballpen, Laptop, and
Acquisition of data All
Cellphone
1:00pm-5:00pm Recording Data All Laptop
Returning of
All
instruments
Assembly All
8:00am-9:00am Checking up and
All
setting up of instrument
Data processing for Data
static observations Processor
07/13/23 Digital Leveling/
Thursday Automatic Leveling/ Total
9:00am-12:00pm
Station, Safety, Vest,
Start of leveling survey All
Machete, Boots, Field,
Notebook, Ballpen,
Laptop, and Cellphone
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch All

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 All Digital Leveling/
Automatic Leveling/ Total
Continuation of Station, Safety, Vest,
Leveling survey Machete, Boots, Field
1:00pm-5:00pm
Notebook, Ballpen,
Laptop, and Cellphone
Recording of leveling All Laptop, Field Notebook,
data Ballpen
5:00pm-6:00pm Returning of instrument All
Assembly All
8:00am-9:00am Checking up and All
setting up of instrument
All Total Station, Rod,
Safety Vest, Boots,
Start of traverse
9:00am-12:00pm Machete, Field
surveying
Notebook, Ballpen,
Laptop, and Cellphone
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch All
07/14/23
Friday All Total Station, Rod,
Safety Vest, Boots,
Continuation of
Machete, Field
traverse surveying
1:00pm-5:00pm Notebook, Ballpen,
Laptop, and Cellphone
Recording of traverse All Field Notebook, Laptop,
data Ballpen, and Cellphone
Quick Gathering for All
5:00pm-6:00pm data recall
Returning of equipment All

Assembly All
8:00am-9:00am Checking up and
All
setting up of instrument
Total Station, Rod,
Safety Vest, Boots,
Start of traverse
9:00am-12:00pm All Machete, Field
07/15- surveying
Notebook, Ballpen,
26/23 Laptop, and Cellphone
Day
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch All
schedule
for Total Station, Rod,
topographic Safety Vest, Boots,
Continuation of
surveying All Machete, Field
traverse surveying
Notebook, Ballpen,
1:00pm-5:00pm Laptop, and Cellphone
Recording of traverse Field Notebook, Laptop,
All
data Ballpen, and Cellphone
Returning of
All
instruments
07/15- Assembly All
8:00am-9:00am
26/23 Delegation of task All
Day Calculating the Calculator, Field
schedule 9:00am-12:00pm datasets/ processing of All Notebook, Ballpen,
for datasets Laptop, and Cellphone
analyzing
and 12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch All
processing 1:00pm-5:00pm Analyzing data All

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 of All
acquired Laptop, Field Notebook,
Finalizing Data
datasets Ballpen
surveying
Assembly All
07/15- 8:00am-9:00am
Delegation of task All
26/23
Day Start of writing the All Field Notebook, Laptop,
9:00am-12:00pm
technical report Ballpen, Calculator
schedule
for 12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch All
Writing of Continuation of writing All Field Notebook, Laptop,
Technical the technical report Ballpen, Calculator
1:00pm-5:00pm
Report Ask for review from the Chief of
professor Party

07/27- Assembly All

28/23 8:00am-9:00am Checking up the final
Day All
Tehcnical Report
schedule
for Submission of
Field Notebook, Laptop,
topographic 9:00am-6:00pm Technical Report and All
Ballpen, Calculator
surveying Reporting

IX. FIELD PROCEDURES

A. Using GNSS in Static Surveying
In the following section, we will delve into the general procedures involved in
static surveying utilizing a GNSS receiver. The objective of this surveying
method is to accurately determine the latitude (Northings) and longitude
(Eastings) coordinates, along with the elevation, of a newly established Ground
Control Point (GCP). The GCP's positioning will be determined within the
framework of the widely recognized WGS 84 reference coordinate system.

1. Base Station Set-up (GNSS)

a. The first step in the procedure involves positioning the tripod over
the designated control point, AGN 3099.
b. The base receiver is then securely attached to the tripod using a
leveled tribrach and an extension for the base. The receiver can
be equipped with either an external place antenna or an internal
VHF antenna for transmitting signals
c. Next, measure the height of the instrument or the antenna from
the point to the cut of the crotch. This measurement is taken three
times consecutively to obtain an average reading.
d. The average height is entered into the system, ensuring that the
differences between the measured distances do not exceed
3mm.
e. Once the height measurement is completed, activate the receiver
and configure all the necessary parameters using the controller.
f. The receiver is set to operate in static mode, and the base/point
name and base code are entered. The base code corresponds to

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 the control point or benchmark that has been occupied during the
survey.
g. Lastly, the parameters regarding the type and height of the
antenna are set up in the system.

2. Rover Station Set-up (GNSS)

a. To begin, set up the instrument and adjust the bipod to ensure its
level near the observational field where there is no canopy
obstruction.
b. Establish the rover station receiver by attaching the antenna or
utilizing the internal VHF (Internal Transmitting) option.
c. Once the base station is configured, power on the rover station and
utilize the controller to set the required parameters. These include
selecting the static mode, entering the base/point name, specifying
the interval and mass angle, and providing the PDOP (Position
Dilution of Precision) data. Additionally, set the antenna type and
height parameters.
d. Once the rover station is properly set up, commence data
observation in the field alongside the base station.
e. Then collect data for a minimum of one hour.
f. Afterward, program and process the data using the HGO software.
Through this processing, we can determine the latitude and
longitude of the new Ground Control Points (GCPs).

B. Leveling

Figure 3. Field Procedure for Leveling Survey

Before commencing any surveying project, it is essential to undertake

certain preparatory steps to ensure the safety of all participants and to
maximize the project's success. These preliminary measures involve setting up

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 various instruments and conducting a series of complex operations. Figure 3
outlines the specific procedures that should be followed for a leveling survey,
which play a crucial role in achieving accurate results and maintaining a safe
working environment.

1. The Chief of Party and surveyors must scout the field first. This helps the
participants visualize the field and terrain. This will help surveyors set up
the level and read backsights and foresights afterwards.

2. After surveying the field and terrain, the survey group can choose the best
instrument placements. Note that the turning points and instrument
locations must be determined together.

3. A reconnaissance survey removes impediments after field scouting.

Lineman-led, this phase provides visibility. Before backsighting from
Benchmark A, the level is set up throughout the path. The digital level is
placed between the known point and the elevation-determining point to
reduce curvature and refraction mistakes. The third order requirement also
requires that the backsight and foresight not exceed 90m.

4. Reading backsights and foresights and performing appropriate operations

follow. After leveling the road, Benchmark A's backsight is taken. To
calculate the instrument height above the datum, add the backsight reading
and the initial Benchmark elevation. The rodman then follows Benchmark
B and holds the leveling rod at an appropriate turning point.

5. Instrument man takes foresight next. Subtract foresight from instrument

height. Operation solves turning point elevation above datum. Finally, the
level is shifted, and steps 4-9 (figure 1) are repeated at a different turning
point. Repeat until Benchmark B foresight.

C. Using Total Station for Traverse Surveying

Traverse surveying involves establishing control points by measuring

distances and angles between stations to determine their positions. Two
classes of traverse exist: open traverse and close traverse. In this project, close
traverse is primarily used due to its simplicity and lower error. Close traversing
is achieved by creating new control points through static GNSS and leveling,
which serve as bases for the traverse. The purpose of traverse surveying is to
establish project boundaries and provide supplementary horizontal control for
topographic mapping (Deakin, 2012). Computation tasks in close traverse
include determining latitude and departure, calculating closure errors,
balancing the survey, determining adjusted positions of stations, area
computation, and subdivision. The compass rule and coordinate method are
two possible approaches for traverse adjustments.

The project primarily utilizes close traverse due to its ease and reduced
errors. New control points are established through static GNSS and leveling,

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 serving as the foundation for the traverse. Traverse surveying aims to
determine project boundaries and provide supplementary horizontal control for
topographic mapping. The procedures outlined in Figure 4 are followed for
conducting the close traverse survey.

Figure 4. Field Procedure for Traverse Surveying

1. A reconnaissance survey establishes boundaries and locates unobstructed

traversal stations. Umbrella nails are used to stake all traverse stations.
After setting stakes for all traverse stations, the total station is set up at the
static station to measure backsight, foresight, and tie-up station bearing and
distance.

2. Repeat Procedure 3-5 for all traverse stations. Traverse surveying requires
computation of latitude, departure, total closure error, balancing the survey,
corrected traverse station placements, area computation, and area
subdivision. The compass rule and coordinate technique are traverse
adjustment options.

D. Using Total Station for Topographic Surveying

Topographic surveying specifically examines the artificial shape and

elevation variations within a project area. This surveying method primarily
emphasizes the determination of elevations. To establish these elevations,
surveyors follow a series of defined steps. Figure 5 illustrates the procedural
guidelines for conducting a topographic survey.

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Figure 5. Field Procedure for Topographic Surveying

 1. The group must first find the project site's ground control points. GNSS
static observation, leveling, etc. Surveyors will profile the creek using these
points. Use the initial point coordinates to traverse the study area.

2. Profiling follows. Surveyors must profile the creek at almost 1-meter

intervals. They must measure creek elevations at these intervals. The
elevation profile must also match the project's elevation changes. After
completing the initial point, the survey team proceeds to the next point
following a similar set of steps. This process is repeated for each
subsequent point until the entire project area is thoroughly covered.

X. MAP

This section shows the map area of a portion of the Canopied parts of the Caraga
State University Main Campus, such as Area 1 (which is situated behind Annex 2 building)
and Area 3 (which is situated behind Kinaadman Building).

Figure 6. Canopied parts of the Caraga State University Main Campus, such as Area 1 and 3

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XI. ESTIMATED TRAVEL EXPENSES

This section of the field plan displays the overall expected field activity expenses.
There are a total of ten (12) personnel, regardless of the role within the party, all
contributes in shared expenses of the total amount. The overall cost is expected to be Php
9,394.00.

FIELD ESTIMATED TRAVEL EXPENSES

FIELD ACTIVITY: Topographic Surveys Under Tree Canopies Within Portion of
Caraga State University - Main Campus
DATE OF SURVEY: July 10, 2023 – July 28, 2023 (18 calendar days)
ACTIVITY PARTICULARS
Field Wear:
Safety Vest: Php 165.00 * 10 items Php 1,650.00
Safety Boots: Php 310.00 * 10 items Php 3,100.00
Field Supplies and Equipment: Php 7,500.00
Bolo: Php 315.00 * 2 items
Topographic Umbrella Nails: Php 20.00 * 1kg. Php 760.00
Surveys Under Tree First Aid Kit: Php 110.00 * 1 item
Canopies Other Essentials: Php 3,500.00
Engineers Field Notebook: Php 60.00 * 1 item
Php 84.00
Ballpen: Php 12.00 * 2 items
Snacks: Php 200.00 * 19 days Php 3,800
Total Php 9,394.00

XII. REFERENCES

Deakin, R. (2012) Traverse Surveying Analysis. Retrieved from https://www.research

gate.net/publication/242330687_TRAVERSE_ANALYSIS on July 10, 2023.

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