The history of surveying is rich with innovative and inspiring people. These people laid the groundwork for determining every field, fence, and city lot in Western Canada to this day. You might think that a survey is just a map, but legal surveys are so much more. They are precise measurements that establish boundaries and land rights and align with local, provincial, and federal regulations. Legal surveys are the invisible backbone that keeps properties secure.
Land use can vary greatly in Western Canada, from urban expansion to natural resource management. These surveys guarantee that development is compliant and proceeds safely and legally. Keep reading to learn more about the history of legal surveys in Western Canada and how Meridian Surveys’ nearly 60 years of service helped shape it.
Legal Surveys Defined Western Canada
In the late 1800s, the Dominion Land Survey was established to survey and divide the western provinces of Canada. The surveyors divided the land into townships, sections and legal subdivisions for settlement. These early surveys determined the cities, railways, and farmland that still exist today.
The original work of early surveyors in Canada was drawn over 100+ years ago and still influences the lots you build on and the easements you negotiate today. Over the years, we have refined and updated legal land surveys in Western Canada to accommodate modern needs, while still referencing historic baselines.
Meridian was established in 1966 with the mandate to provide cost-effective, quality service. Over the years, as our prairie provinces have grown and prospered, Meridian Surveys has grown with them. We have become a leader in the surveying industry by remaining at the forefront of surveying and mapping technology and translating that technology into client solutions.
Meridian’s 60 Years Of Industry
Meridian Surveys isn’t just another surveying company. We have marked thousands of boundaries across the country, from rural subdivisions to major pipeline routes. For almost 60 years, we have been an industry leader for several reasons:
Safety
Our commitment to safety is first and foremost in our operations. We have maintained an Enform Certificate since 2001, demonstrating our continued adherence to industry standards and legislation. We are committed to ensuring we conduct all surveying activities safely and responsibly.
Locations
With 11 offices across Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Manitoba, Meridian Surveys offers incomparable reach and accessibility. Our network ensures that clients requesting legal surveys across Western Canada receive timely and efficient service. Meridian brings unmatched local knowledge to all projects. Our crews understand and address the unique geographical and environmental challenges in order to deliver superior results.
Services
Meridian’s wide range of services allows us to handle any surveying needs across Western Canada, from general legal surveys to complex oil and gas projects. Our ability to provide tailored solutions for different industries builds trusted relationships with landowners, municipalities, and all other types of clients.
Technology
Just as the original surveyors were innovative, Meridian embraces the latest surveying technologies, such as Lidar, GIS, and 3D modelling. These advancements enable us to offer more accurate, detailed and efficient surveying solutions, ensuring clients receive the best possible data for their projects.
Meridian Surveys is the leading choice in surveying services thanks to our decades of knowledge, commitment to our communities, and technological innovations. Whether you’re a private landowner, an engineering company, or a municipality, we have the skills and resources to meet all your surveying needs.
Legal Survey Solutions In The Modern Day
While the foundations of legal surveys in Western Canada are historical, their application in the modern era is more critical than ever. Today, legal surveys are essential for a variety of purposes, including urban development and pipeline infrastructure projects. They provide precise data required for property transactions and boundary disputes. Given the complexity of land use and environmental regulations, it’s imperative to have accurate and up-to-date legal surveys.
Modern surveyors use GPS, UAVs, LiDAR, and GIS mapping to ensure that all projects proceed safely. Clarity and compliance are top priorities that mitigate risks and protect investments for all stakeholders. A legal survey is a final step when land changes hands; it assures that everything is where it should be.
Meridian Surveys has the expertise you need to deliver precise results. We exist because our predecessors’ success started with surveying a solid foundation. To learn more about legal surveys and other services, contact our team today. Trust us to handle the details, and we can build the future of Western Canada together.