A description of the measuring devices follows the observation for azimuth. If an electronic distance measuring device is used, the name and serial number should be given. It should also be stated that it was tested by measuring a known distance before and after the survey, and found correct.
Corner markings as shown are acceptable for stone monuments or wood posts. When a monument with a cap is used, the following marks would be more suitable:
The X has been omitted from the inscription on bearing trees which is incorrect, unless the measurement was taken to the center of the tree. It should be included, thus: JD–1–20220A XBT or JD–1–PRI–1–20220A XBT if the full complement of marks are shown.
When giving intersections only the distance to the line being intersected is given for claims of the survey as the distance to the corner on the line being intersected will be given later in the notes when that claim is described.
When the intersection is with a prior mineral survey or unsurveyed location, the distance should be given to a corner within the claim, or the same corner each time the line is intersected. See the intersection of lines 2–3 and 3–4 of the Protector lode with Sur. No. 20100 Silver lode.
Note that intersections are given to the nearest hundredth of a foot, while distances to items of topography and culture are to the nearest foot. Distances given in ties including bearing objects should be to the hundredth of a foot.
The area statement should show all conflicts and be so arranged that any exclusion may be made and the net area to be patented readily obtainable. This can best be done by starting with the oldest survey and progressing through the various conflicts, but this may not hold true if a prior survey has not been patented. A copy of the preliminary plat may be used to color the exclusions and make certain that all have been properly stated.
Under the heading “LOCATION” it is important to state that the survey is identical with the location as marked on the ground or to state the differences. When describing corners, ties should be given to location monuments when they are not identical. See the Prince Lode in the specimen notes.
Only those improvements counting toward the $500 expenditure are to be given under the heading “IMPROVEMENTS.” In such case, the discovery working should be numbered one. If there is no discovery working, but a discovery point is called for, it may be described and labeled No. 1. Any improvements that do not count toward the patent expenditure or those that have been made by others should be listed under “OTHER IMPROVEMENTS.”