If a surveyor's field notes deviate from BLM Manual instructions, which takes precedence?

In surveying practice, field notes hold significant importance as they represent the firsthand documentation of the surveyor’s observations, measurements, and methods applied during a survey. When it comes to consistency and accuracy in surveys, the field notes made by the original surveyor are crucial.

The field notes are considered primary evidence in disputes regarding land boundaries and surveys because they reflect the actual conditions and intentions at the time of the survey. This means that if there is a contradiction between the field notes and the BLM Manual instructions or any other legal guidance, the field notes take precedence. They provide a tangible record that can often be verified through various means, including physical markers on the land.

While BLM Manual instructions are essential guidelines, they serve more as a framework for conducting surveys rather than definitive records of specific surveys. If discrepancies arise between these guidelines and the actual field notes, the original field notes are deemed more authoritative. This is particularly important in legal contexts where the original surveyor's intentions and observations can be critical in determining the rightful boundaries and rights associated with the land.