BEMIDJI,
Minn. – In a sure sign of spring, the Minnesota Department of
Transportation begins its transition away from snowplow operations by
conducting aerial mapping of several locations in northern Minnesota.
This
aerial survey process relies on clear observations, and must be
conducted after the snow has melted and before the trees leaf out. To
begin the process crews place an “X” on the ground as a reference point
for the aerial photographer. Weather permitting; work will begin in
early April in the following locations:
· Red Lake- Highway 1
· East Grand Forks- Highway 2
· Bemidji- Highway 2 and Highway 71
· Hallock- Highway 75
The
mapping will create a record of existing infrastructure and landscape
along MnDOT right of way for transportation planning and operations.
“Crews paint large white ‘X’ targets on paved surfaces” said Dan
Domeier, MnDOT Land Surveyor.
“For
unpaved locations they use a wood panel target. A survey crew then
records the coordinate position and elevation of these targets, and
provides that information to the aerial photography company.”
The
wood panel targets are temporary and will be removed when the
photography is completed. MnDOT requests that landowners not remove or
disturb the targets until the photography is completed.
