To ensure accuracy, what should a survey monument be?

A survey monument should be a permanent physical marker to ensure accuracy in surveying and mapping. Permanent monuments provide a stable and reliable reference point that can be used for a long period of time, which is essential for maintaining consistency in measurements across different surveying projects. These monuments often include features such as concrete markers, survey discs, or metal rods that are set deep into the ground, making them less susceptible to environmental changes and disturbances.

The permanence of these markers allows surveyors to return to the same location years later and still obtain the same reference point, which is critical for tasks like boundary determinations, construction projects, and geographic information systems (GIS). By having a longstanding and unchanging reference, surveyors can ensure that their measurements and calculations remain accurate and trustworthy over time.