Which edition of the BLM Manual applies to a retracement?

The correct answer highlights that the BLM Manual that applies to a retracement is the one that was current at the time the retracement was performed. This is crucial because surveyors must adhere to the regulations and guidelines that were in effect when the original survey was conducted and when the retracement is undertaken. Using the manual that was active at that time ensures that all methods and standards in place during the original survey are considered, maintaining consistency and legal integrity in the retracement process.

This approach protects against any changes made in later editions that could alter or invalidate the context of the original survey, ensuring that the retracement is faithful to the original intentions and measurements. This principle supports the reliability and accuracy of property boundaries and other important survey-related determinations.