EXECUTING A MINERAL PATENT SURVEY
(Transit and Tape Method)
5–3 Executing the Survey: The survey is usually initiated by retracing the boundaries of the location, or tying-in the corners, along with the discovery monuments and discovery points. Readily identified corners of conflicting surveys and section corners should also be tied in. The relative positions of the corners and discovery points are then determined by calculated bearings and distances. If the boundaries are within the statutory length and width (1500 x 600 ft.), the end lines are parallel and the sidelines are within 300 feet on either side of the discovery point, the survey may proceed.
If only small corner moves of a foot or so will make the claim conform, an amendment is hardly necessary; otherwise, the corners should be moved and amended location certificates filed.
A single claim may be surveyed within the location boundaries, without amendment, as long as the above conditions are met.
New discoveries may be necessary, but if intervening rights are suspected, it is better to hold to the original discovery points and stake fractional claims as required.
If the deposit is a blanket vein or massive deposit, the discovery may be anywhere within the claim, except in Wyoming where State law requires that the side lines be equidistant from the discovery.
If no public land survey corners or location monuments (or other horizontal control stations) can be found within two miles of the survey it will be necessary to establish a location monument. The requirements are given in Sections 10–32, 33 and 34 of the Manual of Surveying Instructions. There was a period when these monuments were called “Mineral Monuments” and were designated “U.S.M.M.”
Conflicts with prior mineral surveys must be determined. It is necessary to search for each corner controlling a line in conflict. One corner is insufficient if others can be found. If the necessary corners cannot be found the boundaries shall be reestablished (not remonumented since the property belongs to another party) in accordance with the methods set forth in Chapter VI.