Survey and Investigations for Design

of Roads, Bridges, Buildings, Flood Controls and

Drainage Structures

Presented by:

DAVID A. BULIYAT
OIC- District Engineer
2.2 SURVEY FOR HIGHWAY PROJECT
2.21 Survey Requirements and Procedures
The main factors that are taken into account in the
location of any highway project between two termini are
the character and purpose of the road, the nature and
volume of present and anticipated traffic the amount of
funds available for the project. For simplicity and
conformity with field studies, the location engineer
proceeds along five well defined steps as follows:
 
2.211 Reconnaissance
  This is a rapid and critical general examination of the
country through which the road is to pass for the purpose
of identifying all possible routes worthy of further
examination and eliminating all but the best one of the
identified routes. This could be aided effectively by the
study of available maps, examination of the ground as
viewed from an airplane, stereoscopic examination of
aerial photographs and ocular inspection of the site on
foot.
a. Area Reconnaissance
  Secure topographic maps and/or planimetric maps,
aerial photographs, photomosaic maps and geological or
soils maps as references to identify all possible routes and
information about the soils and location of topographic
controls and suitable construction materials.
If aerial photographs or photo mosaic maps are not
available and if such study materials are urgently
required, aerial photography shall be taken. The
region or project area under consideration to be
photographed shall have a width of 40% to 60% of
the length of line between control points, unless
intermediate control points, mountain ranges,
valleys or rivers, etc., limit the widths under
investigation. The photographic scale may be 500
meters to a centimeter for large areas of
comparatively simple and undeveloped terrain or 50
meters to a centimeter where the area is small or
complex.
b. Route Reconnaissance
  After investigation of one or more relatively narrow
strips of territory from area reconnaissance (with maps
and photographs), which appear possible to locate a road
fully consistent with the specific design standards,
feasibility of each route shall be checked and investigated.
1. Ground investigation shall note the following:
 -Soil condition (character of soil including classification).
-Availability of good road building materials.
-Effect of the proposed road construction on existing land
use.
-Special attention shall be given to the limiting values of
grade and curvature at critical points to be sure that a
road having the required standards can be built
economically.
-Study all stream crossings of importance to verify
the suitability of the sites.
-All intersections of the proposed route with
existing roads and railroads shall be thoroughly
examined. Location controls, natural or man-made,
shall be investigated and noted. Positive controls
such as favorable bridge site,, a good railroad
crossing, nearness to parks and resorts and town
sites shall be controlled; while negative controls
such as dams, reservoirs, cemeteries, swampy areas
and areas subject to landslide or to inundations,
railroads and narrow streets and traffic congested
areas shall be avoided.
2. If ground reconnaissance rules out all suggested
routes identified during the area reconnaissance,
continue the aerial alternative route in greater
detail.
3. The second set of aerial photographs shall be
taken at lower altitudes with scale at least 120
metres to a centimeter. The width of the strip
photographed will be about 25 times the
photographic scale. These photographs shall be
studied individually by stereoscope and a
photomosaic map shall be made to identify
possible routes.
2.212 Route Selection
 
Route selection will narrow down the choice to one
or two best locations within the general route. Each
route shall be carefully studied from the standpoint
of right-of-way cost and land use, length, alignment
and grade, waterway crossings, construction cost
and benefits to users. A benefit-cost ratio shall be
established for each route. The selection may be
concluded not until field verification is made. This
field verification is called “Flagging”.
 
a. Flagging is the process of selecting the location
for a preliminary transit line by marking the route
by blazing trees or by tying strips of cloth called
“flags” to branches or to poles set on the ground.
If reconnaissance by means of maps or aerial
photographs is not feasible, such probable routes
shall be investigated by ground survey. In this
case, ground surveys can be made by travelling
and examining the route with simple instruments
such as compass and hand level or a stadia or
other quick instrument surveys. Flagging may be
described as follows:
1. Where the location is independent of the
grade, travel along the route on foot. Set markers
or flags on the controlling points using reliable
maps and aerial photographs in flat coastal areas,
in plains and rolling country without great
difference in elevation and in areas where there
are no deep ravines and gorges. To avoid passing
through populated areas, select a diversion rather
than trying to widen an existing street which may
involve great property damage.
- In coastal plains where a meandering river is
encountered, cross at a point where the channel
is usually fixed and narrow such that a
considerable longer road is often justified to reach
this point.
 - In locating through rolling country, an alignment of
sweeping curves which skirts around the hills is
preferred although slightly longer in distance than an
alignment of long tangents which seldom affords a
good grade line. Search for saddles and low ridges to
take advantage of crossing at lower elevations.
  - In locating through flat country, long tangents are
usually appropriate but shall be used with
discrimination. To reduce the right-of-way cost and to
avoid natural or permanent obstacles, break a long
tangent. In following a river, the stream gradient is a
controlling factor of the grade to minimize excessive
cuts and fills without risk of flooding of the road.
2. Where the location is controlled by grade, ascend or
descend continuously on the maximum compensated
grade. Introduce slack grades to avoid impassable
obstacles and bad terrain.
  - For flagging through a saddle or a gap from a flat valley
floor, run the flag line from the less than the maximum
permissible grade for the project to provide enough slack
for grade compensation and shortening of the line in the
final location.
  - In flagging a ridge route, the lowest saddles or gaps are
the controlling points. In this case, determine the
approximate difference in elevations and distances
between control points with available measuring
instruments or maps to establish the controlling grade.
Flagging can be done by passing the flag line diagonally
across saddles from one side of the ridge to the other
side.
 - In crossing deep river valleys or canyons, flag up
to the canyon on both sides after the point of
crossing has been determined. To make the
descent or ascent possible within the grade
limitation, introduce extra distance in to the
location by providing switch backs, provided they
are of ample radius and the grade is compensated
for the curvature around them.
 
2.213 Preliminary Survey
This involves instrument survey undertaken on the most
possible route chosen and approved for the purpose of
establishing the horizontal location of the centerline of the
proposed road between two known termini taking into
account the allowable gradient. An accurate and
sufficiently detailed topographic map shall be prepared on
which the centerline of the proposed road is projected
with respect to the topography. The preliminary line shall
also be established for accurate horizontal and vertical
controls required for a topographic survey of the selected
route. Topographic survey and mapping may either be
done by the use of aerial photographs or by ground
surveys, as follows:
 a. Aerial Survey and Mapping (see
Appendix 3)
 
1. Photographing the route to a larger
scale. This involves flying new photos at
lower altitude, if enlargement of the
reconnaissance photos will not suffice.
2. Use a sufficient number of accurately
determined points of known position
established by ground survey methods.
 3. Construct photomosaic maps from aerial photos and ground control data
using stereomapping instruments. Aerial survey may be done only when
the ground surface is not obscured by leaves of trees or heavily wooded,
otherwise, ground survey shall be resorted to. The advantages of location
by aerial methods are most apparent in well-developed country of
moderate relief where there are already established points of known
position which can be used to control the mapping. The topography can
usually be obtained much faster and less expensive than by ground survey
methods and the strip map is usually wider, permitting more thorough
study of the route. Less manpower is also required. The preliminary survey
can be made without alarming the inhabitants or advertising the route to
speculators. For further discussion on aerial photogrammetric and
mapping, refer to Appendix 3. Supplementary ground investigation shall be
undertaken after the tentative centerline has been established in the map
to check the aerial map for accuracy and completeness. Any missing data,
such as property and utility owners, character of underground structures,
type and condition of houses, etc., shall also be added.
 
 b. Ground Survey
1. Preliminary line shall follow a route which had already
been flagged. It shall consist of the traverse, topography,
profile and cross sections.
  - Consider the following principles to control the
establishment of the preliminary line location.
  - Establish a base line as close as possible to the final
anticipated centerline location by running a range of angle
traverses. Where roads are existing and following the
general route, the proposed centerline shall attempt to
improve the existing alignment without unnecessarily
increasing the cost of construction.
 
 - Establish a location desirable from the standpoint of
traffic, conformity with the minimum standard of
alignment, grade, sight distances and road cross sections
specified to the proposed road, and minimizing the
possibility of flooding by streams crossing the road or
paralleling it.
  - Establish a location reasonable in construction cost. This
shall consider avoidance of swampy areas. Ledge rock,
possible landslide areas and other foundation problems,
reasonable limit of cut and fill, good site for stream
crossing, railroad grade crossing or separation and
interesting roads.
 
 - Establish a location that shall have less harmful effect on land
use. This shall consider avoidance, as much as possible, of
expensive existing developments; residential, industrial,
agricultural, etc.; avoidance of unnecessary damage to valuable
properties; encroachment of cemeteries, playgrounds, parks and
golf courses. In reconstruction of existing roads, particular study
shall be given to the possibility of limiting the widening of the
right-of-way for one side of the road only.
-Subject to the above controls, secure the most direct line. When
the location of the centerline appears in conflict with the above
principles, topography shall be extended enough to either side of
the baseline not necessarily covering a band of uniform width, as
it covers the entire road right-of-way when built. Allowance for
possible shifting away from the traverse when the final line is
plotted, and when there is less certainty as to the exact position
of the eventual centerline shall also be considered.
 
 2. Basic Requirements in Running the Preliminary Lines
  - Establish the beginning and end points. If possible, select
a cross road, a bridge or any permanent work on the ground
that can be pinpointed on the map. Reference the line
completely so that it can be found years later if necessary. A
minimum of two reference points shall be required.
- Establish vertical and horizontal controls at the beginning
of the project. Stationing shall be referred to a kilometer
post available within five kilometer radius. Assume 0 + 000
beginning if no kilometer post is available. Benchmarks shall
be established at intervals of about half a kilometer and at
all probable bridge sites. Check orientation by taking solar
observation at every 50 stations or at not more than 10
kilometers. Check back each benchmark.
 
- Ground surface profile of the preliminary line shall
be made. Take elevations of the grounds at every 20
meter station, at every point of intersection (P.I.) and
at intermediate breaks on the ground. Read ground
elevation to nearest centimeter. Cross sections shall
be taken from stations where elevations are taken
and shall be extended far enough to either side of
the preliminary line, not necessarily covering a band
of uniform width but giving allowance for possible
shifting of the centerline. For purposes of
convenience cross sections shall be taken up to 100
meters distance to either side of the centerline.
- In addition to the topography, take and record
measurements of the following if they fall within the band
of the topography:
-Roads and trails
-Private buildings (include names of owners or occupants).
-Churches, graves or cemeteries.
-Schools, markets and other public buildings
-Streams and rivers with direction of flow
-Irrigation canals, dikes or dams
-Orchards, fruit trees and cultivations
-Special fine shade trees
-Springs and wells especially if in use by the local
inhabitants for water supplies
-Property lines with names of owners and claimants
2.214 Office Projection
In the office, the best line is projected on the
topographic map fitted as close as possible into
the terrain within the desired standards. Several
lines shall be tried so as to obtain the most
economical line without increasing the cost of
survey. This, therefore, shows that projection is a
trial and error process of obtaining in the office
the best line. In this phase of work, it becomes
pertinent to introduce the standards for
alignment, grades, sight distance and
compensation.
 a. The following principles shall be considered in projecting
the tentative line:
 
1. Make the alignment and grade as good as possible as the
terrain will permit within the established standards. Use
flatter curves and grades than the minimum standard
where this can be done without increasing the cost.
2.In rolling country, use a smoothly flowing alignment of flat
curves rather than long tangents. A long tangent cannot be
made to fit the ground in any but the flattest country and
has no inherent value except in ease of surveying work.
3. In flat coastal areas, use long tangents if they fit the local
conditions except to avoid great property damage or right-
of-way expense.
 4. Avoid sudden changes in alignment. In an alignment of long
tangents, make the curve extremely flat, much flatter than the
minimum called for by the design speed. Generally, in flat
country no curve shall have a radius less than 500 meters. A
radius of 1000 meters is much better. Where a sharp curve is
necessary, try to introduce a series of successively sharper
curves to prepare the driver for the bad ones.
5. Where it can be done without sacrificing alignment, provide
tangent alignment and nearly right angle crossing for bridges
as this greatly simplify their design and construction. Bridges
and culverts are controls for alignment.
6. Avoid short reversed horizontal curves alignment. Where
reversed curves are necessary, distance between curves (PT to
PC) shall be at least 40 meters to permit super elevation
transitions.
 
 7. Avoid short tangents between curves in the same direction.
These are called broken back curves and are considered poor
alignment because of the difficulty of preserving a balance super-
elevation design. Make longer single curves or compound curves
if necessary.
8. Use curves of even degree or even multiples of 10 minutes as
this simplifies the computation and staking in the field. Never use
a curve of less than 50 meters radius for national roads without
expressed permission from the Director, Bureau of Design.
9. Compensate all grades for curvature according to the standards.
Do not exceed 6% grades on curves of more than one degree. A
grade of 7% maybe used on tangent and curves less than one
degree but not continuously for length more than one kilometer.
Use grades steeper than 7% only with the expressed approval of
the Director, Bureau of Design.
 
 b. Equipment and Materials Needed
 
1. 48-inch spline and spline weights
2. Set of circular curve templates
3. Compass and bow dividers
4. Engineer’s scale, triangles and straight edge
5. Set of colored pencils
6. Roll of profile paper or millimeter cross section
paper
 
 c. Field Review of Preliminary Location Centerline
 
When the tentative centerline has been
established and plotted, the “paper Location” shall
be reviewed in the field, according to the following:
 
1. The entire traverse line shall be walked over
comparing the tentative location centerline with
the ground.
2. Particular attention shall be given to all points
where the centerline approached limiting values of
the geometrical standard.
3. Attention shall also be given to any condition which
might affect the design or construction such as
unstable areas and water bearing soil.
4. Attempt shall be made to simplify problems of right-
of-way acquisition.
5. The topographic map shall be revised to incorporate
all additional information and any adjustment that
have been made in the tentative centerline.
6. The centerline as adjusted shall be approved as the
final location centerline if the preliminary work and
projection have complied with the standards and
requirements of a highway.
2.215 Final Location Survey
 
After the final investigation and approval of
the centerline, a final location survey shall be
undertaken for the purpose of staking the
centerline on the ground exactly as it has been
finally established on the map, taking the
topography along the staked centerline and
collecting all information needed in completing
the highway design, in preparing construction
drawings and specifications, estimate of
quantities and right-of-way acquisitions.
 a. Staking the Centerline
 
1. Traverse
- Transfer the projected centerline from the topographic rolls to the
ground. Mark the intersections of the projected line tangent with
the P-line or draw right on the projected line. Scale the offsets or
measure the intersection angles. In the field, set hubs on these
intersecting points or offsets as the case maybe from the P-line thus
obtaining two points on each location tangent, or one point and
angle between the P-line and the location tangent. Produce the
location tangent backward or forward until it intersects the next
tangent ahead or the next tangent back. This locates the point of
intersection (P.I.) of the location line on the ground and P.I. angles
(I’s) and the distances between P.I.’s. Note that as the location survey
progresses, a series of closed traverses is created between it and the
P-line survey. The closures of these traverses shall fall within the
limits prescribed for under standards of accuracy used in the survey.
 - Fit curves to the tangents. The radius of theses curves will
usually be the same as those marked on the topographic roll,
although slight adjustment may occasionally be made by the
locator to fit ground conditions.
- Stakes shall be set at every 20 meters or at least 10 meters for
rough terrain. Measurements shall be continuous from
beginning to the end of the project eliminating all P-line
equations.
- Reference the centerline at points of intersections and points
on tangents so that it can be recovered later during
construction.
- At special points where needed by the designer, every
detailed information shall be taken such as bridges, important
culvert sites, site of railroad separations or traffic interchanges.
 
- Important traffic features taken from the original map
shall be frequently checked for accuracy of position by
measuring their location from centerline stations and
checking the measurement on the map.
- For intersecting roads, the centerline and right-of-way
lines, as well as the travel path shall be shown. A station
plus shall fix the intersection of the centerline. The
same shall apply on intersecting railroad lines. In
addition, the type, dimensions and conditions of any
existing railway crossing shall be shown and the nature
of any protective devices.
- If any part of the building will apparently lie within the
right-of-way, all dimensions shall be to the nearest
centimeter.
 
- Connections with existing and future roads shall be given
particular attention as to location, especially in
reconstructing successive lengths of an existing road. The
centerline of the immediate units shall be verified if
capable of being extended efficiently if reconstruction of
the route is continued. In such case, the traverse shall be
continued to secure important topography for extension
of the centerline at least 200 meters beyond one or both
ends of an immediate project, as the case maybe.
 2. Cross Section and Profile
 
- Cross section shall be taken at right angles to the centerline, at
each station, at all traverse points (P.I. and P.O.T.) and at all
traverse points where there is significant break in grade in
accordance with the following:
- Enough readings shall be taken at each cross section to establish
the actual configuration of the ground. It shall be extended far
enough from both sides of the centerline to cover probable width
of construction and anticipated right-of-way limits.
- For vertical control of the profile, use benchmarks established
during the preliminary survey. Ground surface readings shall be to
the nearest centimeter. Turning point readings shall be to the
nearest millimeter.
 
- Elevations shall be determined whenever they will
supply information needed by the designer.
- The centerline profile for each intersecting road
shall be obtained for a sufficient distance to
establish its existing grade line and to show the
effect of any change in the grade of intersection.
Top of rail elevations shall be similarly secured for
all intersecting railroads. Comparable information
shall be secured for roads and railroads that parallel
the centerline or approach it closely. In such cases,
the regular cross sections shall be extended
frequently to include the road or the railroad.
 - Inlet and outlet elevations at all existing culverts
carrying stream flows shall be secured, as well as
floodwater elevations and flow line elevations in
the bed of each stream for a reasonable distance
upstream and downstream.
- All other existing structures shall have significant
elevation noted.
 
 b. Surface Drainage Survey
 
A highway is an artificial obstruction laid down by man
across the natural drainage pattern of the land. At every
water course therefore, provisions must be made for the
passage of running water through or across the roadway.
1. All well defined drainage courses that cross or closely
approach the centerline shall be located by station plus
and with bearing and taking note whether the water is
flowing or not. Adequate information regarding flow
shall be recorded, viz:
- Drainage area. Determined by field surveys, aerial
photographs and existing contour maps.
 
 - Nature of runoff, whether fast, medium or slow.
- Flood elevations determined from floodmarks and
information from local inhabitants.
 
2. Sizes of opening and any evidence of adequacy or
inadequacy of opening of existing drainage structures
located the nearest road or railroad crossings upstream or
downstream shall be noted.
3. For existing roads to be reconstructed, the size, type,
condition and adequacy or inadequacy of any drainage
structure on the existing road, at any points within or near
the probable area of the proposed highway shall be noted.
 
4. All private drains, field tiles, house drains, etc.,
that cross the centerline or affect the design of
the future highway shall be noted together with
the purpose they serve.
5. If data on any stream channel location appears
necessary, detailed information concerning the
nature of the channel and maximum flow shall be
secured. A special drainage survey shall be
undertaken with traverses and elevations tied into
the centerline and benchmarks.
 c. Right-of-Way Survey
 
1. Basic Information Required. Where the proposed
project crosses private lands, the right-of-way survey shall
show the following:
- Names of owner and boundaries of all tracts of private
properties, as well as, names of tenants occupying the
land.
- The number and description of all crops, buildings and
improvements including standing timber.
- The assessed value of all lands and improvements.
- The location of all monuments.
- The location and ownership of all public utilities, such as
power and telephone line and water pipe lines.
 - The width of existing right-of-way where the location
follows an existing road or trail.
- Conditions and uses to which these properties are put.
- Items that may cause variations in right-of-way costs.
- Accurate information concerning the location of all
property boundary lines, ownership and property
improvements.
- Where boundaries that affect the highway are not
available reestablishment of such on the ground shall be
made especially where right-of-way is to be produced.
 
Parcellary Survey
 
This shall be undertaken after the final location survey of
a road has been fixed and duly approved for the purpose
of segregating the designed road right-of-way from the
lots so affected and accurate areas are to be obtained.
The segregation of the road right-of-way involves
subdivision survey in case of decreed lots, amendments
survey in the case of unsurveyed lots. Parcellary survey
requirements are as follows:
1. Owners, tenants, adverse claimants and in general,
anyone possessing or claiming interest on lands adjoining
or included in the proposed road project to be surveyed
shall in every case possible be duly notified of the survey.
2. In the execution of the parcellary survey for
road right-of-way, provisions governing all classes
of survey shall be followed.
3. All traverses shall start either from primary or
secondary stations and close to either primary or
secondary stations.
4. Corners which are not occupied and used as
stations in traverses shall be located by side shots,
consisting of azimuths and distances from the
stations which shall in every case be parts of the
circuit of loop traverse.
 5. Traverse shall be classified into primary, secondary and tertiary
depending on the location of the proposed project. Solar of stellar
azimuth shall be obtained, if necessary. Allowable angular and linear
error of closures are as follows:
 
Kind of Traverse Angular Linear
Primary A = 2.5’’√P 1:10 000
Secondary A = 10’’√S 1:5 000
Tertiary A + 30’’√T 1:2 000

Where:
A is the maximum angular error for primary traverse expressed in
seconds of arc.
P is the number of stations or angles in the primary traverse.
A is the maximum angular error of closure in the secondary traverse.
S is the number of stations in the secondary traverse.
A is the maximum azimuth error of closure in the tertiary traverse.
T is the number of stations in the tertiary traverse.
 6. Computation
All computations shall be executed in duplicate by different
computers working independently. Final check of the original and
duplicate computations shall be made by comparing both
computations. Staking and monumenting shall only be made after all
corners have been computed and coordinated.
7. Monumenting
Standard concrete monuments shall be considered as monument
of permanent nature to be used in defining and marking corners.
Standard concrete monuments shall be at least 150 millimeters in
diameter by 600 millimeters in length if cylindrical in form and 150 x
150 millimeters by 600 millimeters if parallelpipedal in form set no
less than 550 millimeters in the ground. The top shall be centered by
a galvanized iron spike or by a conical hole not exceeding 20
millimeters in diameter and not less than 10 millimeters in depth to
define the corner to which measurement shall be made.
 

 
8. Other Data and Information
Land property value, current market value and list
of existing improvements in the land shall be
gathered to help facilitate in the negotiation of the
road right-of-way expropriation proceedings.
9. Monuments
To locate property boundaries, use the best
evidence that could be found in the ground such as
the Bureau of Lands monuments, private survey
monuments or stakes, fences, rows of trees, paddy
dikes, streams or ridges. These shall be
supplemented with survey descriptions.
 10. Improvements
 
In describing improvements, use explicit language such as “two
storey dwellings of four rooms framed of squared apitong timbers,
flank floors, sawali walls and nipa roofs” or “orchard contains two
avocado trees, 10 years old, 120 mm diameter, 3 mango trees, 8
years old, 160 mm diameter, all are bearing fruits” or “ rice land is
terraced and under irrigation. Owners claim to harvest two crops
per year with a total yield of 80 cavans per hectare”.
11. Location of Construction Materials
 
In the project requires borrow, right-of-way information shall be
taken for the borrow pit site as well as for the project site itself. If
any available sources of gravel, ledge rock, coral, etc., are on
private property, right-of-way information shall also be obtained
covering the quarry site.
 12. Claims and Concessions
 
Settler Claims. Where the project is on government property,
check any claims of settlers for improvements. If well
defined, tie them to the survey. Where gravel and other
materials exist on public lands, check at the provincial capitol
to determine whether these deposits are covered by
concession previously granted.
13. Adequacy of Information
 
Before finalizing the field books, check data if adequate to
plot every parcel of land showing the owner, boundaries, and
assessed value.
 
2.22 Maps and Plans
The field parties which make the transit and
level survey shall be responsible in plotting the
topographic map and shall make as the survey
progresses on in order that any error or missing
data can be readily corrected. All topographic
maps of existing or proposed works submitted for
projections, review, approval and/or design shall
be prepared in a standard manner.
2.221 Plotting and Preparation of Plans
 
a. Preliminary Survey Plans
 
1. Use only good quality detail or drawing paper that do not
stretch or shrink too much and are durable enough to stand the
handling and erasures that topographic rolls must endure.
2. Plot the P-line in red waterproof ink on a continuous roll 500 to
563 mm wide and length depending upon the general direction of
the survey. The sheet shall never be cut until the topographic strip
map goes out of the sheet. Make a definite match line between
consecutive sheets properly marked or labeled so that they can be
accurately assembled together while projecting the location line.
Cut the right hand edge of each sheet on the match line. Do not
cut on the left hand match line.
3. In red ink, show azimuth of each tangent,
distances between angle points and stations of angle
points. Intermediate 20-meter station shall be
marked with a half tick, multiples of 100 meters with
a full tick and kilometers with a wedge. Mark
plusses at every multiple of 100 meters.
4. At perpendiculars from the centerline and at each
station and angle points where cross sections were
taken, plot contour points elevations. Draw the
contours in pencil through these points. Also plot
and draw streams, roads, buildings and other natural
or man-made features within the strip. Plot the
profile to check grade.
5. The finished contour map shall be brought to the field
to compare the contours, outlines and features with the
actual ground surface station by station. If any error or
discrepancy is found, correct the maps without taking
additional cross sections. If errors are so gross that they
cannot be corrected, a re-cross section of the area shall be
made.
6. After the map has been checked and corrected in the
field, ink the contours using a fine black or brown line
making heavier the multiples of five contours. Ink all
creeks, rivers, lakes, springs and coastlines in blue.
7. Show limits of right-of-way, existing property lines and
names of landowners.
8. Show the extent and types of improvement on the land
traversed.
9. The finished contour map shall be brought to the field to
compare the contours, outlines and features with the actual
ground surface station by station. If any error or discrepancy
is found, correct the maps without taking additional cross
sections. If errors are so gross that they cannot be
corrected, a re-cross section of the area shall be made.
10. After the map has been checked and corrected in the
field, ink the contours using a fine black or brown line
making heavier the multiples of five contours. Ink all creeks,
rivers, lakes, springs and coastlines in blue.
11. Show limits of right-of-way, existing property lines and
names of landowners.
12. Show the extent and types of improvement on the land
traversed.
14. Meridians shall be placed on each section between
match lines.
15. For location plans, use Scale 1:1 000 and for profile,
use Scale 1: 100 vertical and 1:1 000 horizontal.
16. Indicate comprehensive description of vertical and
horizontal controls of survey of beginning of project. Plot
on the plan the benchmarks with brief and accurate
description of each.
17. References of angle points and points on tangents
shall be shown on the plan.
After the above requirements are complied with, the map
is now ready for projection of the location centerline.
 b. Final Survey Plans
1. Use only good quality drawing paper that do not
stretch or shrink too much and are durable enough
to stand the handling and erasures that topographic
rolls must endure. Half-ruled cross section paper,
500 to 563 millimeters wide is preferable.
2. Plot the final line introducing the curvature and
profile in black waterproof ink on a continuous roll,
length of which depends upon the general direction
of the survey. Make a definite “Match-Line” between
consecutive sheets properly marked and labeled.
 
3. . In black ink, show distance and azimuth of tangents,
points of intersection, points on tangents, stationing and
elements of circular and spiral curves. Intermediate 20-
meter stations shall be marked with a half tick, multiples
of 100 meters with a full tick and kilometers with a wedge.
Mark plusses at every multiple of 100-meter stations.
4. For location plans, use Scale 1:1 000, for profile use
Scale 1:100 vertical and 1:1 000 horizontal and for cross
section, use square Scale of 1:100 horizontal and 1:100
vertical.
5. Plot contour points perpendicular to the centerline at
each station and other points where cross sections were
taken. Draw contours of one meter interval and ink with
fine brown or black line making the multiples of five
contours heavier. For new roads location, contours shall
be 100 meters on each side of the centerline.
 6. The following data and information shall be incorporated
on the survey plan:
 
- Limits of right-of-way, existing property lines, owners and
land use.
- References and description of beginning and end of
project, P.I. stations, P.O.T. stations and controlling points
near bridge sites with azimuth and distances.
- Comprehensive description of vertical and horizontal
control of the survey at beginning of project and succeeding
benchmarks with corresponding elevations and descriptions.
- Extent and type of improvements on the land.
- Location of existing public utilities.
- Existing and / or proposed road intersections and
railroad crossings. Exact elevation of railroad tracks,
existing kilometer posts for existing roads and numbers
of the adjacent telegraph poles along railroad lines for
railroad crossings.
- Types, sizes and location of existing and proposed
major and minor structures. Conditions of existing
pipe, box and / or culverts, together with their
dimensions, top and invert elevations at inlet and
outlet ends.
- Existence of muck, peat or other unsuitable materials
indicating extent and depth and maximum high water
elevation of inundated areas.
- Ordinary water elevation, ordinary and extreme
flood elevations of every canal creek, waterway,
river crossings, as well as, highest tide elevations
if applicable. Profile along river bed and every
channel over which minor structure is to be
planned, extending at least 30 meters to each side
of the centerline of the road, at least 50 meters
upstream and downstream if channel is not
straight. If crossing is at skew, give angle of skew.
- Profile of existing roads prolonged 100 m before
the beginning and after the end of proposed
project required for the determination of
connecting grades and alignment.
 - Existing drainage structure located along the
proposed line if near an existing road or railroad
line. Sources and locations of borrow, aggregate,
sub-base course, concrete aggregates and asphalt
aggregates.
- For existing base course, obtain kind, condition
thickness, length and width of surfacing at
representative sections.
- Cross sections shall be plotted in heavy, solid line
and exposed rock shall be indicated and all
occurrences or rock as determined shall be plotted
in proper location.
 
c. Parcellary Survey Plans
1. Plotting and Preparation of Plans
Parcellary survey plans shall be prepared in accordance
with the following:
All survey plans shall be prepared and plotted on base
maps projected upon spherical quadrangles or in
longitudinal and latitudinal lines. The plans shall be
clearly and neatly drawn in drawing ink and shall show
the following:
- The boundaries of the property which the plans is
made by full black ink lines heavier than those of
adjoining properties. Permanent walls along boundaries
shall be shown by conventional method.
- The traverse and stations from which side shots
were taken shall be drawn in dotted lines in red
ink.
- The relative position of adjoining surveyed
properties and the names of all adjoining owners
indicated in dotted lines, the boundaries between
them and all important improvements.
- The corners shall be indicated by small circles
two millimetres in diameter drawn with drawing
instrument and their respective descriptions
noted.
 - The boundary line with corresponding bearings
and distances shall be indicated in black ink or to
be tabulated on the plan when these are too
numerous to be drawn or shown clearly along or
near the boundary lines. Lot descriptions shall be
prepared.
- In general, the lot numbers, corner numbers and
description, note, title, etc. shall be drawn parallel
to the horizontal axis of the plans.
 
2. Submittal of Plans
The parcellary survey plans shall be executed by a duly
qualified geodetic engineer who prepares and certifies the
survey returns. Such plans shall be submitted to the Bureau of
Lands for verification and approval or to the Land Registration
Commission if the lots subdivided are decreed properties.
Survey returns shall consist of the following:
- Survey order or survey authority, in case of public land
surveys.
- Field notes duly notarized. Certification of the Barangay
Chairman or any responsible community official as to the
ownership of the property.
 - The original and duplicate of the traverse computations,
complete to coordinates and to area.
- The astronomical observations and any other
computations related to the survey, in original and
duplicate.
- The tracing cloth plan plotted ob B.L. or L.R.C. Form plan
of the survey signed by the surveyor and duly stamped
with his/her dry seal.
- Certificate of survey.
- The original and duplicate of lot boundary computations
complete to area in case of subdivision and amendment
surveys.
 
2.23 Survey Report
The survey report shall summarize all important items of
information that have been developed including proposals of
the locating engineer for dealing with difficulties of the
project.
2.231 Identification and History of the Survey
a) Name, number, termini, or other identification of the road.
b) Description and stationing of beginning and ending points
showing or indicating equalities and reasons therefore
length of project, ties with any existing coordinate system
and with established datum and errors of closure.
c) Dates of commencement and completion of various surveys,
interruptions and delays in work, etc.
d) Record of conferences with local officials relative to the
project.
2.232 Traffic
 
Summary of Traffic, Survey Findings and Resulting Geometric
Requirements as Supplied to the Locating Engineer, including:
a) Design speeds.
b) Type and width of pavement, number of lanes, width or widths
of center division, if any.
c) Width and character of shoulders.
d) Maximum degree of curvature.
e) Maximum allowable grade.
f) Vertical and horizontal sight-line requirements, required
frequency of passing sight distances.
g) Treatment of intersections, grade separations, interchanges,
etc..
h) Extent of any control of access.
i) Any other imposed requirements.
2.233 Topography, Existing Land Use, and Utilities
(identified by approximate stationings):
a) General description of the topography of the
area with particular reference to swamps, rock
and other natural obstacles.
b) General description of property along proposed
right-of-way and present use with special note of
cemeteries, public parks, golf course, etc..
c) Locations, size, type, profile and ownership of
water, gas sewer and power lines and any other
utilities.
2.234 Proposed Alignment and Grades
a) Relationship to any existing roads or roads.
b) Alignment control points and their influence and
locations.
c) Alternate locations considered, with advantages and
disadvantages of each and reasons for selection of line
adopted.
d) Critical points (list) controlling the establishment of the
final grade, with upper and lower possible limits,
reasons for the grade line recommended, possibilities
of adjusting grade, etc..
e) Discussion of any weak points in the proposed line and
grade and reasons why these were not improved.
2.235 Foundation Conditions (identified by approximate
stationing)
 
These shall be referred to Chapter 4, Subsurface investigation.
a) Classification of soil materials as determined by observation
and investigation.
b) Statement of rock occurrences as revealed by inspection or
borings, suggestions for rock or earth slopes in cuts,
recommendations for any further subsurface investigations.
c) Description of swamps or marshy areas with statement of
depth to hard bottom.
d) Comment on critical points, such as probable slide formations,
areas of inferior soil, etc.
e) Recommendations for use of sub-base, removal and
replacement of inferior foundation soil, etc..
2.236 Drainage
a) Summary of weather conditions just prior to and during soils and
drainage surveys.
b) Description of suggested general drainage scheme for the project,
including treatment of all special conditions such as marshes and
continuous streams.
c) A list of existing culverts and bridges showing locations, sizes,
lengths, conditions and a statement as to their adequacy. This shall
include installations on existing road being reconstructed, as well as
on parallel roads, railroads, etc., within a reasonable distance, both
upstream and downstream from the centreline of improvements.
d) A list (by stations) of proposed culverts and bridges, giving
recommended type, size length, skew, and walls, etc..
e) Description of existing sewer systems, ditches, gutters and other
drains.
f) Recommendations for sewers, under drains, paved gutters,
intercepting ditches, leak-offs, etc..
g) Notation of any locations requiring high grade line to prevent
flooding.
2.237 Construction Materials
 
a) Complete statement on location, quality, available quantity and haul
of local materials.
b) Recommendations for securing borrow within highway limits.
c) Recommendations for securing borrow outside highway limits. 
2.238 Right-Of-Way
 
d) Description of right-of-way to be acquired, giving general condition of
houses, barns and other buildings along the route, with approximate
valuation where valuation affects location.
e) Statement of anticipated damages to be incurred because of the
necessity for moving buildings, replacing trees or shrubs, etc..
f) Right-Of-Way difficulties involved in setting grade.
g) Any other pertinent data.
2.239 Maintenance of Traffic (where
necessary)
 
a) Recommendation for handling traffic,
whether project route or detour.
b) Proposed detour routes including length,
type and condition of detour roads and
statement as to capacity and condition of
critical bridges.
 
2.24 Special Considerations
- Amount and character of clearing and grubbing required,
indicating sizes of all large trees.
- Statement of type, width of present surface of roads and
driveways, approaches that must be constructed.
- Recommended treatment of all intersections with
railroads.
- Recommended treatment of all intersections with
existing highways.
- Retaining walls.
- Private wells, springs, water supply pipes, drains etc.,
with recommended treatment for each case.
- Topsoil locations, with depth to which stripping is
possible.
- Amount and condition of existing guard rail, single posts,
etc..
- Type and condition of existing property line fences.
- Station location traverse joints at ends of project if
connection is to be made to existing concrete pavement.
- Complete list of survey data-maps, profiles, field books,
cross section sheets, etc. accompanying the report.
- Names and positions of engineers making the report and
of all survey personnel.
-Date of report.
2.3 SURVEY FOR BRIDGE PROJECT
 
Bridge site location survey is undertaken to
determine the most suitable location for a bridge
where the initial cost of the structure, its
maintenance and operation in the future will be
the most economical and where the design and
quality of the structures will fit the alignment and
profile to combine advantageously with the
highway system viewed as a whole.
2.31 Survey Requirements and Procedures
2.311 Reconnaisance Survey
Reconnaisance survey shall be undertaken to
determine the most economical and most feasible
location of a bridge along the general route of a proposed
or existing road, the bridge being a major controlling point
of a proposed highway. This can be aided effectively by
the use of available maps, examination of the ground as
viewed from an airplane, stereoscopic examination of
aerial photographs and ocular examination of the site on
foot. The following are conditions in the selection of a
bridge site:
- The narrowest neck of a waterway which is generally the
most suitable location for a bridge.
- Stream crossing at a point where the stream runs
between permanent, well defined and highly resistant
c. On meandering streams, the crossing shall be located on a
stable and permanent channel.
d. Foundation and geological conditions of bridge sites shall
be carefully investigated and studied.
e. Destructive effects of scour, erosion and drifts on the
future structure shall be investigated.
f. Sharp curves shall be avoided at the approaches of the
bridge. A long tangent to the approaches is the most
suitable.
g. A skewed crossing shall be avoided as much as possible,
but it may be introduced if found to be more advantageous
over the objectionable features of sharp curves at the
approaches. A skewed crossing on a narrow canyon is
preferred because better alignment is attained and the bridge
is usually easier to design and construct.
 h. In rolling country, the grades
approaching the location of a bridge shall
be ascending to avoid a concave grade line
on the bridge.
i. Flagged control points shall be
established on the ground along the
tentative centreline alignment determined
to connect with the preliminary road
centreline.
 
2.312 Topographic and Hydrographic Surveys
 
Topographic and hydrographic surveys shall be
undertaken of the bridge site and vicinity taking into
consideration the following important features and
controls:
a. Establish the horizontal and vertical controls of the
project.
b. Set at least two permanent transit points on each bank
of the river properly referenced by the least three
reference points. Establish permanent and properly
referenced benchmarks on each side of the river bank.
Benchmarks shall be placed where they will not be
disturbed during construction works.
c. Topographic survey shall always start from a base line
to be established by points on the banks of the river.
Profiles and cross sections shall be referred to this base
line. Profile along the centreline of the bridge shall be
extended at least 100 meters beyond both ends of the
bridge.
d. For any proposed bridge site, the topographic and
river surveys shall be extended at least 100 to 200
meters upstream and downstream from the centerline
of the bridge so as to obtain more information for
necessary river control or training works.
e. Profile along the centreline of the river channel shall
be extended at least 100 to 200 meters upstream and
downstream from the centreline of the bridge.
f. Elevations of experienced lowest water level, ordinary
water level, ordinary flood water level and the maximum
flood water level shall be properly noted.
g. Information on driftwoods and debris passing under the
proposed bridge shall be obtained, as well as, velocity and
direction of flood flow, probable penetration of piles and
presence of rocks and suitable foundations, including tidal
fluctuation and current, if affected by such.
h. If the proposed bridge is for the separation of highway
grades, the area to be mapped must be large enough to
include such interchange ramps as may be required. The
profiles and cross sections of the interesting roads shall be
taken for a sufficient distance to include any revision that
may be made.
 i. When an existing structure is on or close to the
proposed centreline of the proposed bridge, the
following information shall be taken and recorded:
1. Bridge location
2. Number of spans and length of each
3. Width, type and condition of existing roadway and
number of structures.
4. Size, location, type, condition, and invert elevations
of inlet and outlet ends of the structures and all
available evidences of their inadequacy or
adequacy.
5. Type and foundation condition of the bridge.
j. For grade separation structures at railroad crossings,
a profile of the tract for 300 meters on either side of
the highway centerline shall be secured. Determine
the location of points of intersection and angle
between centrelines. If the railroad is on curve,
pertinent curve data shall be obtained. Cross sections
of the railroad shall be taken at 20 meters interval and
extended at least 100 meters from both sides of the
centerline.
k. Surface and Subsurface Data. Refer to Chapter 4,
Sub-surface Investigation.
l. Hydrolic Data. Refer to Chapter 3, Hydrolic
Investigation.
2.313 Final Location of Bridge Site
If there are revisions or changes in the tentative
alignment of the proposed bridge and its
approaches, adjustments shall be made, as follows:
a. Stake out new centreline of the bridge by
establishing two permanent markers on each side of
the river bank, properly referenced where they will
not be disturbed during construction. If possible,
utilize the same benchmarks previously established.
b. Take additional topographic and hydrographic
surveys to satisfy the requirements for bridge site
survey and detailed engineering.
2.32 Maps and Plans
 
2.321 Plotting and Preparation of Plans
 
Maps and plans shall be plotted and prepared in accordance with the
following mapping requirements:
a. Topographic plan shall be plotted and prepared in ink to Scale
1:500 to 1:1 000 depending on the width of the river, showing the
following:
1. Contours drawn using a rather fine brown or black ink. Contours in
multiples of five shall be slightly heavier and properly labelled at such
intervals.
2.Highway alignment with at least two permanent markers and
points on each bank of the river, properly described and referenced.
Show also horizontal curves and elements, if any:
3. Benchmark clearly and properly described and referenced at least
one on each bank of the river.
4. River course with direction of flow drawn in
blue ink.
5. Location of cross sections taken, properly
referred and labelled.
6. All existing structures within the vicinity of the
bridge site.
7. Location of borings, if any.
8. Standard title block, refer to Volume IV.
9. Meridian
10. All other information that may affect the
bridge structure, be it geological or physical.
 b. Profile
1. The profile shall be plotted in square scale, depending on the width
of the river, as follows:
Width of River Scale
Up to 30 m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:80
30 to 60 m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:100
60 to 120 m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:200
120 to 200 m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:333 1/3
200 to 250 m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:400
Over 250 m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:500
 2. The profile shall show the following:
 
- Maximum experienced flood level, ordinary flood level,
ordinary water level and the lowest water level.
- Profile of the river channel extended 100 meters to 200
meters upstream and downstream shall be superimposed on
the profile of the road centreline in order to determine the
relative drop of river bed within the distance of the section.
- If the river has more than one channel, profile of the
stream bed along the centreline of the channels shall be
considered. If the width of the river is considerable,
additional stream profiles shall be shown.
- Location, depth and other boring data, if available, shall be
shown in the profile.
2.33 Survey Reports

A descriptive report shall be prepared and submitted

together with the survey plans, profiles and cross
sections. The report shall contain among others, the
following:
2.331 Topographic and River Conditions
The topographic and river conditions shall be described
with full reference to the attached survey plans. River
conditions shall be described whether upgrading,
degrading, meandering or of erodible banks.
2.332 Hydrologic Investigation. Refer to Chapter 3,
Hydrologic Investigation
2.333 Surface and Subsurface Investigation. Refer to Chapter
4, Subsurface Investigation.
2.334 Comments and Recommendations

If there are alternative routes, advantages and disadvantages

of each shall be mentioned. The recommended route shall be
technically and/or economically feasible with corresponding
justifications.
2.335 Right-of-Way
 
Whether acquisition of additional right-of-way is necessary, and
if there are restrains in acquiring, it shall all be discussed in the
report. If road right-of-way acquisition is to be made, a
parcellary survey of the affected area shall be undertaken.
2.4 SURVEY FOR FLOOD CONTROL AND URBAN
DRAINAGE PROJECTS
Surveys for flood control and drainage projects involve
obtaining topographic and location maps. Topographic
surveys often cover a large tract of land or the whole
drainage area of a river basin-wide flood control
planning or the whole of an urban district for an overall
urban drainage system.
 
Hydrographic surveys cover survey of an inland body of
water or water-logged areas made to determine its
retarding capacity as a temporary reservoir of flood
waters (or for reclamation purposes).
 
 Location surveys which include strip topography and
cross sections, such as river surveys for river control or
training works and road surveys for drainage works are
usually utilized for detailed engineering.
Sometimes flood damaged surveys are also made for
feasibility studies. These involve instrument surveys to
obtain information on flood heights and flood damage
appraisal. The analysis and evaluation for average annual
flood damage include hydrologic analysis. For this kind of
survey, an outline is attached as Appendix 14.
Reconnaissance survey shall also be under taken for flood
control projects. Regarding information to be obtained
during the survey, refer to 2.43, this Chapter.
 
2.41 Requirements and Procedures
Survey requirements and procedures for flood
control and drainage surveys are similar to other
civil works projects. They differ only as to scope
or extent of the project area and the data to be
obtained and required for design purposes.
2.411 Establishment of horizontal and vertical
control points. The project shall be executed
within the framework of an acceptable horizontal
and vertical control system. Establishment and
referencing of such controls shall be referred to
2.11, this Chapter.
2.412 Topographic Survey
For areas more than 20 000 hectares, photogrammetric
method of topographic mapping is recommended.
Instrument survey may be preferred for areas less than
20 000 hectares, however, it shall be undertaken in
accordance with the following requirements:
 
a. All traverses for detailed topographic survey shall start
and close at previously established controlling points in
the project.
b. Succeeding turning point distances shall not exceed
100 meter intervals. No side shots shall exceed 20
meters interval distance from each other.
c. Rod readings shall be made to the nearest
centimeter mark.
d. Shot points shall be made to determine the
exact locations and elevations of existing
buildings, dams, irrigation canals, bridges, storm
drainage/channels, irrigation and flood control
structures and other existing improvements.
Cross sections of roads or along the line of
proposed drainage structures shall be taken at 50
meter intervals and/or at bends, bridges and road
intersections. Cross sections shall be so obtained
accurately to get abrupt changes in elevations of
said roads.
e. The topographic survey for urban drainage projects shall
include among others the location and cross sections of streets,
existing permanent structures, gates and entrances, fences and
walls, drainage manholes, inlets/catch basins and underground
public utilities.
f. Strip topographic survey shall always start from a base line to be
established by permanent points subject to the least disturbance
which can be occupied by the transit, and another permanent
point located at least 100 meters distance such as Bureau of Lands
monuments or a church spire. Azimuth of such base line shall be
recorded for future reference. In future resurveys of the project
required in order to determine changes in the course of the
stream or to obtain additional data, such surveys shall be referred
to this base line having the recorded azimuth. Surveys of different
years can easily be correlated or superimposed with the new
survey, thereby facilitating study of changes in the regimen of the
stream and in the configuration of the flood channel.
If possible, there shall be one base line for each
kilometre length of river surveyed and these base
lines shall be connected together by closed
traverses. Do not locate base lines on the
centreline of roadways.
g. Elevations at maximum floods and year of
occurrence shall be taken.
h. Location of city, municipality, barrio / sitio.
i. Location of waterways, streams, rivers and its
tributaries.
2.413 River / Hydrographic Survey
River surveys include strip topographic, hydrographic
and cross section surveys of existing waterways within
the limits, as specified. (Banks herein mentioned are
defined as the highest banks of the stream which can
contain flood water without flooding the adjacent land
areas.)
a. Hydrographic Survey
1. Traverse for detailed hydrographic survey shall start
and close at previously established horizontal and
vertical control Traverse for detailed hydrographic survey
shall start and close at previously established horizontal
and vertical control stations of the project.
2.Sounding points shall be made at a maximum of 20
meters distance interval.
3. Readings for sounding shall be made to the nearest
centimetre mark, with horizontal angle and distance
read to the nearest minute and centimetre,
respectively.
4. Shot points shall be made to determine elevations
of dry areas within the area to be surveyed.
5. All hydrographic survey shall be in accordance with
the standards set by the BCGS.
6. Auxillary polygons shall be set out when required
and tied to the base line of known datum.
7. The base line survey markers shall be installed
by permanent concrete monuments (220 mm x
200 mm x 600 mm).
8. The position of survey boats shall have
coordinated intervals made by two transits or
theodolites and properly noted in the record book.
9. Sounding points shall be accurate enough to
meet the standard mapping tolerance. Refer to
2.42, this Chapter.
10. All elevations shall be based from known
datum plane or may be assumed for some cases.
 b. River Survey or Location Survey
 
1. Cross sections of existing waterways shall be taken in order to
get the actual longitudinal and traverse configuration of the
river channel.
- The intervals between cross sections shall be 100 meters for
straight and uniform river reaches, 50 meters at minor river
bends and 10 to 20 meters at sharp bends.
- All cross sections shall be taken facing downstream and shall
be properly indicated and noted in the plans. Cross sections
shall be extended to the land side from both banks in
accordance with the following sizes of its catch basin:
- For small rivers, creeks, canals and other waterways with
drainage area less than 40 km² , Whose distances between both
banks ranges from 3 to 15 meters, cross sections shall be
extended from 10 to 20 meters from both banks.
 -For principal rivers as defined by the National
Water Resources Council (NWRC) with Drainage
area roughly from 40 to 1 400 km² cross sections
shall be extended from 50 to 100 meters from
both banks.
-For major rivers as defined by NWRC with
drainage area of 1 400 km² or more, cross
Sections shall be extended from 100 to 250
meters from both banks, or more as may be
directed.
- Maximum experienced flood level with year of
occurrence, ordinary flood level and low water
level shall be noted at every cross section taken.
- Cross section of the river at bridge crossing shall
be taken showing the width and distance
between piers and abutments faces, elevation of
the lowest member of the bridge superstructure
and elevation of top of roadway extended at least
100 meters from bridge abutment approaches.
- Cross sections shall be obtained as accurately as
possible to get the abrupt changes in elevation of
the banks. Field notes shall contain the time and
date of sounding were made.
 2. Profile
- Profile shall be taken along the centreline and
along the left and right banks of the stream all
throughout the required length of the stream as
specified. For multi-channel streams or rivers,
profile along centreline of each channel shall be
taken.
- Profiles of sea bed extending at least 100 meters
from the shoreline taken along lines
perpendicular to the shore and spaced at least
100 meters apart and / or at intermediate points
along the prolongation of the river mouth.
 
2.42 Maps and Plans
 
2.421 Plotting and Preparation of Plans/Maps
a. Original Map Sheets. The original map (called the work
sheet, compilation sheet or manuscript sheet) shall be made
to a scale 20% to 50% larger than will be required for the final
map. In this case, the accuracy tolerance that are permissible
on the final map can be enlarged proportionately for larger
scale used on the original map sheet. This original map sheets
shall be prepared in such procedure, viz:
1. Plotting of Grid Lines. The original gird lines projection of
rectangular coordinates used for the plotting of all horizontal
control points must be plotted with pinpoint precision using
beam compass, steel straight edge and best quality scales.
2. Grid Line Spacing. Grid lines shall be spaced at such
convenient distances as will represent about 120 mm
on the map sheet.
3. Tolerance. Both the grid projection lines and the
horizontal control points shall be plotted in correct
relative position within 10/800 mm. The same
tolerance shall also be required for the overall
dimensions of the map sheet.
4. Matching. When the project requires more than one
sheet, hairline accuracy is necessary in matching
features which cross the margin of adjoining maps.
5. Material. The material used for making the original
map sheet shall be free from distortion or expansion
and shall be uniform in both directions.
 6. Scaling. The map sheet shall be prepared by such
procedures and with such ease as will ensure
consistent scaling accuracy. The scale of the survey
plans /maps and cross sections shall be in accordance
with the following and/or as may be specified:
- For the hydrographic survey maps, the following
scales are recommended:
 
500 to 1 000 hectares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 2 000
1 000 to 5 000 hectares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 5 000
5 000 hectares or more . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 10 000
to 1: 20 000
 
-For river surveys not excessing one (1) km in length
-Location plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:500
-Profile
Horizontal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:500
Vertical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:100
 
-Cross section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:100
(Horizontal and Vertical)
-For small rivers, creeks, canals and other waterways
with drainage area less than 40 sq. km.
-Topographic map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:
2 000
-Location plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:
5 000
-Waterways profiles and cross sections
Horizontal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 500
Vertical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:100
 
-For principal rivers and drainage area ranging from 40
to 1 400 sq. km.
-Topographic map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:
5 000
-Location plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:
1 000
-Waterways profiles and cross sections
Horizontal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 1
000
Vertical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 200
 
-For major rivers with drainage area ranging from 1 400 sq. km.
or more
-Topographic map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 10 000
to 1: 20 000
-Location plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 2 000
-Waterways profiles and cross sections
Horizontal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 2 000
Vertical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1: 400
 
7. Contour Interval
Topographic map shall have contours to represent
the topographical conditions, e.g., flat, rolling or
hilly with contour interval as shown on Table 2.5.
8.Topographic map with rectangular coordinates
or grid lines shall be drawn with the following
information:
- Meridian (North-South Line)
- Course of the stream or streams one or two
kilometres above and below the town section to
be protected.
 - Scoured or silted banks and sand bars duly labelled including changes in the
course of the river in different years (date to be indicated) and abandoned
channels.
 
Scale of Map Slope of Ground Contour Interval
 
1: 100 to 1:1 000 Flat 0.09m to 0.20m
Rolling 0.20m to 0.50m
Hilly 0.50m to 1.00m
 
1: 1 000 to 1: 10 000 Flat 0.50m to 1.00m
Rolling 1.00m to 1.50m
Hilly 1.50m to 2.00m
 
1: 10 000 or greater Flat 0.50m to 2.00m
Rolling 2.00m to 5.00m
Hilly 5.00m to 10.00m

Table 2.5
 
- Character of bed and bank materials whether sandy,
gravelly, sandy loam, etc.
- Location of roads, railroads, streets, buildings and other
improvements.
- Encircled spot elevations of maximum experienced flood
level whenever dependable information can be obtained.
- Edges of vegetative areas where the river bed (old or
new) is overgrown with vegetation (indicate sections of
the bank that are thickly vegetative, say bamboo thickets)
- Appropriate boundary/flood limit (with years/days of
occurrence) of the area inundated at maximum flood
stages labelled by long dashed lines.
- Contours on flat areas showing topographic features,
vegetation or agricultural crops grown in the flood plain.
Contours shall be drawn continuously and not ending at
the banks of the stream. Contours drawn at least 2
meters above maximum flood level shall be located
accurately.
- Location of benchmarks and reference datum plane with
tabulation of their elevations and technical descriptions.
- Base lines giving azimuth, distance (if measurable by
tape and complete description of the stations at each end.
- Main traverse line shown by light dotted lines and
traverse table giving detailed descriptions of stations that
are more or less permanent in character.
 - Location of old river control works, if any, typical cross
sections of these structures, giving dimensions. If the existing
river control structures have been damaged, the extent of
these damages shall be indicated and detailed cross sections
showing the nature of such damages shall also be included in
the plan.
- Pertinent title of plan and signature of the persons involved.
 
-Name of the river being controlled
-Municipality / City, Province and Region
-Inclusive dates of survey
-Names of three principal members of the survey party and
their respective designations
-Full name and initial of employee who plotted the
plan and inclusive dates plotted.
-Full name and initial of draftsman who traced the
plan and inclusive dates traced.
-Full name and initial of employee who checked the
plan and date checked.
-Signature of official in charge of office and date
signed.
 
All the above items shall appear on every sheet of
the location, profile and cross sections
-The following shall be especially included in all cross
sections:
-Normal flood level and maximum experienced flood level
with year of occurrence if known.
-Minimum water level if the river does not dry in summer.
This elevation shall be carefully determined.
-Character of bed and banks, whether clay, loam, sand,
gravel, boulders, sandy loam.
These information shall be indicated on the plotted cross
sections.
-Progress and index map shall be prepared and drawn to
approximate scale.
-Title blocks of plans, cross sections and profiles shall be in
conformity with the standard
Adopted by the Bureau of Design, Ministry of
Public Works and Highways. The original tracing
paper of all survey plans, cross sections and
profiles shall be properly kept for record and
future references including all field notes and
pertinent data collected during the entire survey
operation.
2.43 Survey Reports
a. A descriptive report shall be submitted together with the
required survey plans and maps. The report shall contain
information such as hydrologic data (including sediment
discharge); subsurface data; source of construction
materials; watershed data which consist of the drainage
area and its watershed limit to be delineated on the
accompanying map; topographic condition, whether hilly,
rolling or flat; vegetation, whether forested or bare; types
of vegetation; and character of soil and geologic
formation. For information on hydrologic and subsurface
data for flood control project, refer to Chapter 3,
Hydrologic Investigation and Chapter 4, Subsurface
Investigation.
b. Causes of flooding
All possible causes for the present destructive
action of the river shall be noted, whether the
floodway is being checked or constricted by a
bridge, roadway, railroad embankments, shallow
river mouth, vegetation, heavy load of sand, gravel
and boulders, etc., shall be determined. If the
river bank is scouring where it has not occurred
before, investigate changes or disturbances in the
regimen of the river upstream which may possibly
have brought about the present scouring problem
and discuss the same.
c. Flood severity
This consist of flood stages and discharges, height of
inundation above the ground, aerial extent and
duration of flooding. These information shall be
obtained from the latest flood and from floods of
the past five years and before that. The maximum
ever experienced flood severity shall also be
mentioned.
d. Past changes of the river course for the last five
years and the years before that. River courses for
the past periods shall be correspondingly shown in
the accompanying maps/plans.
e. Discuss all possible solutions to the flood
control problem and submit positive
recommendations of the same including use of
old indigenous materials and/or materials not
available locally. Te possibility of constructing cut-
off channels to deviate the stream away from a
scouring bank or facilities for the speedy
discharge of flood water shall always be studied
and where this possibility exists, a rough sketch of
the stream course showing all bends for a
distance of at least five kilometres upstream and
five kilometres downstream shall be submitted.
 f. Recommendation for alignment of proposed
earth dike, cut-off channel or revetments must
always be accompanied by a profile along the said
line or lines, based on actual survey undertaken by
a level party and indicating thereon the following:
1) In case of earth dike, the maximum and ordinary
flood level.
2) In case of cut-off channel, cross sections at least
100 meters of the main river from both ends of
the profile.
3) In case of revetment, the maximum and ordinary
flood levels and water level shall be obtained.
g. Where watershed area involved is of considerable
size, state whether reforestation of the denuded
areas of the watershed is recommendable as a
measure for flood prevention. If reforestation is
deemed advisable, an inspection of the denuded
areas shall be made and a map of the watershed
showing such areas submitted, together with the
program of reforestation proposed. In the
preparation of this program, consultation shall be
made with the provincial representatives of the
Bureau of Soil conservation and the Bureau of
Forestry with a view to coordinate the same with the
activities of the said entities.
h. Discuss the history of existing and destroyed
river control works, giving year of construction,
when destroyed, causes of failure, effects on the
regimen of the stream, criticism on the designed
structures, suggestions for improvements, etc.
i. Accompany this report with photographs
showing the nature of destruction to private or
public properties, the site of proposed river
control works, the scoured river banks,
constriction of floodway and sharp meanders of
the rivers, etc.
2.5 SURVEY FOR WATER SUPPLY PROJECT
Survey and mapping for water supply projects
discussed herein involves reconnaissance surveys of
source area, population survey of the service area,
pipeline and distribution system, as well as
instrument surveys and mapping of the mentioned
areas.