Business Details
23 Years
experience
Expert Coastal Surveying & Geodetic Services in Anchorage, AK
Founded in 2003, JOA Surveys has established itself as a leader in coastal surveying and geospatial data collection. Our expertise in tides, water level measurement, vertical datums, and geodetic networks supports critical decision-making for coastal management and environmental resilience. With a team of certified professionals, including Professional Land Surveyors and IHO Category A Certified Hydrographers, we deliver precision in challenging environments. Our commitment to safety, excellence, and innovation drives every project, from local coastal monitoring to nationwide geodetic networks. We prioritize open communication and community engagement, fostering partnerships that enhance local economies and environmental stewardship.Our use of cutting-edge technologies, such as GNSS-Reflectometry and remote telemetry, ensures accurate, actionable data for clients. With decades of combined experience, our leadership team has built a reputation for reliability and technical mastery in coastal surveying. Our work spans U.S. coastlines, the Great Lakes, and Pacific Islands, supporting agencies like NOAA and the National Ocean Service. We maintain rigorous quality standards through site-specific risk assessments and adherence to industry best practices. Our mission remains focused on empowering decision-makers with data to protect and sustain coastal environments for future generations.
Services
Tidal Datums
Geodetic Surveys
Hydrographic Surveys
GNSS Networks
Coastal Monitoring
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of combined experience in coastal surveying.
- Our team includes certified professionals and innovative technologies.
- We maintain rigorous safety and quality standards for every project.
- Our work supports critical federal and state environmental programs.
- We prioritize community engagement and local economic development.
Services
Tidal Datums
We collect and analyze tidal data using advanced sensors and GNSS technology to establish accurate vertical reference points. Our work supports coastal mapping, navigation, and environmental monitoring. Clients rely on our tidal datum solutions for infrastructure planning and regulatory compliance.
Geodetic Surveys
Our geodetic surveys provide precise horizontal and vertical positioning using GNSS and differential leveling techniques. We support projects requiring integration with the National Spatial Reference System. Applications include infrastructure development, environmental studies, and boundary determination.
Hydrographic Surveys
We conduct hydrographic surveys to map coastal and marine environments using sonar and GNSS technologies. Our data supports navigation safety, habitat assessment, and dredging projects. We deliver bathymetric charts and seafloor analysis for government and industry clients.
GNSS Networks
We design and maintain GNSS reference networks for real-time positioning applications. Our systems support surveying, weather monitoring, and crustal deformation studies. We provide installation, calibration, and ongoing maintenance of GNSS infrastructure.
Coastal Monitoring
Our coastal monitoring programs track shoreline changes and environmental conditions using remote sensing and field measurements. We deploy tide gauges, wave buoys, and meteorological stations. Data informs coastal management and climate adaptation strategies.
People
Nathan Wardwell
Managing Partner
With over 20 years of coastal surveying experience, Nathan leads JOA's technical operations and strategic partnerships. He specializes in geodetic network design and tidal analysis.
Michael Zieserl
Partner
A Professional Land Surveyor with 20+ years in coastal projects, Michael oversees field operations and quality control. He has extensive expertise in GNSS applications and hydrographic surveys.
Questions
What services does JOA Surveys offer?
We specialize in tidal datums, geodetic surveys, hydrographic mapping, GNSS networks, and coastal monitoring for government and private sector clients.
Do you work outside Alaska?
Yes, we operate along all U.S. coasts, including the Great Lakes, Gulf Coast, and Pacific Islands, with global project partnerships.
What industries do you serve?
We support environmental agencies, transportation departments, energy companies, and research institutions with coastal and geospatial data solutions.
How do you ensure data accuracy?
We use calibrated instruments, follow NGS standards, and employ certified professionals to maintain the highest precision in all survey work.
Can you handle large-scale projects?
Yes, we've completed nationwide initiatives like the Vertical Datum Transformation program and Alaska's Continuously Operating Reference Network.