Business Details
18 Years
experience
Expert Geomatics Solutions in Anchorage, AK
SurvBase has been a trusted provider of geomatics solutions in Alaska since 2008. Founded by industry veterans Steve Buchanan and John Kerr, our team combined over 50 years of Alaskan surveying experience with cutting-edge digital technology to deliver precise mapping and boundary resolution services. We specialized in supporting engineering and land development projects through accurate basemapping, control surveys, and right-of-way documentation. Our expertise extended to both urban and remote environments, serving clients across public and private sectors including DOT/PF, ANTHC, and BLM.While we regret closing our doors in 2024 due to staffing challenges, we take pride in the strong relationships built over 16 years of service. Our commitment to quality remained unwavering until our final day, ensuring every project met rigorous technical standards. SurvBase's legacy includes a reputation for reliable boundary resolution and title expertise that minimized project surprises for our clients.
Services
Boundary Surveys
Topographic Mapping
Right-of-Way Surveys
Construction Staking
Aerial Mapping Control
Hydrographic Surveys
Parcel Plats
Control Surveys
As-Built Surveys
Position Monitoring
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- 16 years of proven Alaskan geomatics expertise
- Founders with combined 50+ years in surveying industry
- Digital field equipment for accurate data collection
- Respected boundary resolution and title expertise
- Extensive experience with Alaska's public agencies
Services
Boundary Surveys
Our boundary surveys provided precise property line determinations using advanced digital equipment. With decades of Alaskan experience, we resolved complex title issues and minimized project surprises. Our services supported land development, infrastructure projects, and legal documentation needs across urban and remote environments.
Topographic Mapping
We created detailed topographic basemaps using GPS/GNSS and robotic total stations. Our digital field methods ensured accurate elevation data for engineering design and land planning. Automated mapping tools improved efficiency while maintaining rigorous quality control standards for project deliverables.
Construction Staking
Our construction staking services guided infrastructure development with precise field markings. We supported projects ranging from transportation corridors to utility installations, ensuring proper alignment and grade. Digital field equipment improved accuracy while reducing potential errors during construction phases.
Aerial Mapping Control
We established precise ground control points for aerial mapping projects. Our expertise supported photogrammetric mapping and LiDAR data collection. Field crews used GPS technology to create accurate reference networks for large-scale mapping initiatives across Alaska's diverse terrain.
Hydrographic Surveys
Our hydrographic surveys mapped underwater terrain for coastal and riverine projects. Using specialized equipment like Z-Boat 1800 HS, we collected bathymetric data for harbor development, floodplain mapping, and environmental studies. Field crews adapted methods for Alaska's unique aquatic environments.
People
Steve Buchanan
Co-Founder
Licensed Professional Surveyor with extensive experience in public and private sectors, including Bureau of Land Management and University of Alaska Anchorage teaching roles.
John Kerr
Co-Founder
Licensed Professional Surveyor with background in Right-of-Way Engineering and Survey Management for DOT/PF and ANTHC, plus digital cartography teaching experience at UAA.
Questions
Is SurvBase still operating?
SurvBase is in the process of permanent closure, with most activities concluding by late 2024.
What services did SurvBase offer?
We provided geomatics solutions including boundary surveys, topographic mapping, construction staking, and aerial mapping control.
Who were SurvBase's founders?
The company was founded by licensed professional surveyors Steve Buchanan and John Kerr.
What areas did SurvBase serve?
Primarily Anchorage with statewide Alaska project experience.
