Survey work in soil conservation

Abstract

Abstract A VERY large part of the soil conservationist's work is done without direct assistance from the surveyor. In the majority of cases, when asked to advise on erosion control measures for a property he can decide on the necessary measures and design the location of waterways and banks without the help of a detailed base plan. There are hydrological and agricultural factors in every problem and local knowledge of rainfall intensities and soil play an important part in successful design. Where remedial and protective structures are required, it is generally possible to estimate catchment areas by reference to existing maps or by examination of vertical air photographs. Slopes may be determined by abney level. The soil conservationist may use simple survey methods to make his own plan of the area to simplify design, calculation, and recording, but there are many occasions when complexity or intensity of mechanical work, or problems of water disposal, or of co-operation, make it economical to have the a...