Goal:

For this project an elevation survey of a stream corridor and surrounding bluffland was performed using total station and GPS. The goal of mapping the two approaches is to visually and quantitatively compare accuracy of the two approaches.

Process:

I took the following steps to complete this project:

1. Chose a subject area with interesting range of topography.
2. Positioned total station unit and took a benchmark reading.
3. Utilized Total Station and GPS unit to take elevation readings at 62 locations and recorded data.
4. Input results of both units readings into ArcMap projected both data sets to UTM NAD 83 Zone 15N.
5. Analyzed locational and elevational difference in data.
6. Generated map outputs showing the data points with location and elevation differences.
7. Prepared final report of findings.

Outcome:

The locational differences in the results show an average distance between the total station and GPS readings is 6.41 feet begining from a minimum of .74 feet to a maximum of 17.08 feet with a range of 16.34 feet.

The elevational differences in the results show an average difference of 2.96 feet from .05 to 14.97 feet in difference.

Overall the data analysis of both location and elevation show the GPS having greater variation in data. The total station was more accurate but had limitations in its use. The choice between the two products will depend on the accuracy needs of the project as well as time and cost.