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Western Regional Modernization” by Dr. Dru Smith and “Survey Tech: Existent, Oblit-
erated, or Lost” by Mike Hart, highlighting the technical nuances
and modern challenges in surveying. Technical advancements were
Survey Conference further explored in sessions like “Precise Aerial Mapping” by Ahmed
F. Elaksher, “Drone to CAD with Carlson” by Scott Griffin, and
Robert Mooers’s presentation on 3D Laser Scanning for Dummies,
2024 Wrap-Up emphasizing the integration of new technologies in traditional land
surveying practices.
Networking and Social Engagements
Prepared by Trent J. Keenan, PLS
There were several networking opportunities that were integrated
The Western Regional Survey Conference held from March 23 to 26th, throughout the conference schedule, including a Bowling FUNd-
2024, at the Horseshoe Las Vegas, marked another Bi-Annual raiser at the Brooklyn Bowl and the Icebreaker Reception in the
Western State gathering! It’s always been my favorite Conference! Exhibit Hall, as well as the Scholarship Auction, which not only
This year again did not disappoint and was organized by the collab- facilitated professional connections but also supported educa-
orative efforts of the Arizona Professional Land Surveyors (APLS), tional initiatives within the land surveying community. The auction
California Land Surveyors Association (CLSA), Nevada Association generated nearly $18,000, which will be used to support Nevada
of Land Surveyors (NALS), New Mexico Professional Surveyors land surveying students! This year, the NALS Education Foundation
(NMPS), Professional Land Surveyors of Wyoming (PLSW), and the awarded the following scholarships to deserving students:
Western Federation of Professional Surveyors (WFPS), the Confer-
ence drew nearly 900 professionals eager to engage with the latest Robert Hollis
industry advancements and training opportunities. Steve Parrish Memorial Scholarship - $2500
Ben Grissom Memorial Scholarship - $2500
Pre-Workshop Day: March 23, 2024 Frances Yu
The Conference commenced on March 23 with a full-day workshop Rita Lumos Leadership Scholarship - $2500
that provided attendees with specialized knowledge and advanced
training opportunities. The day was essential for the Certified Hunter Staley
Federal Surveyor’s (CFedS) workshop, which included a session on Bill Cuddy Memorial Scholarship - $2500
advanced computations in the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) Gilberto Valencia
presented by Glen Thurow. The afternoon sessions included a Hispanic/Latino Scholarship - $2500
presentation on Legal Research for Non-Lawyers by Tasha Huhta,
offering insights for surveyors navigating legal research needed for Mitchell Cohen
particular BLM Surveys. NALS EF Stipend - $1000
Douglas Spotted Eagle led multiple sessions focusing on the Will Strange
integration and safety of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in land Eric Christianson Memorial Scholarship - $2500
surveying, covering topics such as “Risk Mitigation for UAS Opera- TrigStar Scholarship - $1000
tions,” “UAS Safety 101,” and a comparative analysis of “LiDAR vs. Leigh Anne Christianson attended the scholarship auction and
Photogrammetry.” Additionally, Davey Edwards’ session on riparian presented William Stange with a $2,500.00 scholarship in honor
boundaries and Dave Grafton’s talk on the frontier of GIS integra- of her late husband, Eric Christianson. Eric, who passed away
tion were highlights, showcasing the expanding scope of land unexpectedly on August 31, 2023, was a dedicated professional in
surveying in digital contexts. land surveying, having built a 35-year career in Las Vegas. The Eric
Opening Ceremonies: March 24, 2024 Christianson Memorial Scholarship was established late last year,
and thanks to several generous contributions, the first scholar-
The opening ceremonies on March 24 set an inspiring tone for the ship was awarded to William. Eric’s legacy continues through this
Conference. The ceremonies featured a national anthem perfor- scholarship, supporting students pursuing careers in surveying and
mance by national recording artist WyMac and a presentation of col- reflecting his dedication and contributions to the profession.
ors by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department - Honor Guard,
providing a patriotic start to the proceedings. Looking Forward
Engaging Sessions and Discussions: March 25-26, 2024 The Western Regional Survey Conference concluded on March 26
Following the opening, the Conference offered a lot of sessions with closing ceremonies and a grand prize drawing, leaving at-
tendees reinforced with new knowledge, skills, and professional
designed to cater to the diverse needs and interests of the at- networks. The Conference reinforced the importance of continual
tendees. Presentations included Gary Kent’s “Art of Retracement,” learning and adaptation.
which provided deep insights into the technical aspects of retrac-
ing historical surveys. Ethics in surveying, a critical element of the As the land surveying profession continues to evolve with ad-
profession, was adeptly covered by John Stahl. vancements in technology and methodology, the insights and
Kris Kline’s sessions on courtroom preparation and effective com- connections made at this Conference will help shape the future of
land surveying across the Western United States. With a success-
munication skills were tailored to enhance the legal understanding ful wrap-up of the 2024 conference, we all look forward to more
of surveyors. Updates from the Boards of Registration, featuring gatherings that promote professional growth and technological
speakers like Patty Mammola and Ric Moore, provided valuable
regulatory updates across various states. advancement in the profession.
Technical sessions continued to draw attention, with topics such The success of the Conference would not have been possible
as “Survey Tech: The Current State of Drone Surveying” by Logan without the commitment of many people. Special thanks to the
Campbell and “Boundaries and Adjacent Properties” by John Stahl, vendors, sponsors, student volunteers, and conference committee
reflecting the evolving technological landscape and the perennial who made this event possible! Great job, everybody! If you haven’t
importance of boundary issues in surveying. already done so, you should mark your calendar for next year’s
Conference, which will be held March 29 -April 1, 2025, at the
Concurrent Sessions and Technical Advances Silver Legacy in Reno, Nevada. See you there!
The Conference also featured a series of concurrent sessions on
various topics. These included advanced discussions on “NSRS

8 The Nevada Traverse Vol.51, No.2, 2024