Time poses problem for setting boundaries

David Ballard works for the state’s Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office as a professional land surveyor examining county boundaries, but the passage of time can complicate that job. Ballard (shown at left in photo with Rotarian Mike Montgomery) was Capital Rotary’s Feb. 20 guest speaker. He explained how the South Carolina Geodetic Survey determines county lines even when many of the border landmarks of the past – like trees, roads and bridges – no longer exist or have been altered by history. Researchers may use colonial records, old maps, plats, land transfers and deeds to help determine boundaries. Fixing exact and proper borders can affect property taxes, fire departments, EMS and police services, schools, enforcement of property rights and election of public officials. It can also involve time and expense, Ballard said, noting that it took 20 years for the states of North and South Carolina to research and agree on the 337-mile border between them.

Land surveying is an essential process that ensures precise measurements and mapping of land boundaries, which are critical for property rights, construction, and legal disputes. Over time, landmarks like trees, rivers, and roads can change, making it challenging to accurately define property lines. Professional land surveyors, like those working with state geodetic offices, rely on historical documents such as old maps, deeds, and plats to retrace and establish borders. This work has significant implications, influencing property taxes, public services, and the legal enforcement of land ownership.

The tools used in land surveying have evolved greatly, from basic compasses and chains to advanced GPS technology and drone technology. These modern tools allow surveyors to obtain accurate measurements, even in areas where physical landmarks have disappeared or been altered. For professionals handling these product categories, such as boundary determination tools, accuracy is crucial to maintaining the integrity of survey results. Anchoring the work in reliable data ensures that communities are properly served and that borders remain clearly defined, affecting everything from local governance to emergency response.