The Oregon November/December 2025 A publication of the Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon A Preview of Our January Conference................................. pg 4 Constitution vs. Coordinates.............................................pg 16
On the Cover This photo was taken on December 18, 2023, along the upper part of Mitchell Point west of Hood River. Pictured in the photo are Dana Londen and Robert Ellis hiking out to take some GPS observations. London and Ellis are part of the Columbia/Olympic USFS Survey Team based out of Vancouver, Washington. The photo was taken by Sadie Deshong and submitted by Ellis. The Oregon Surveyor is a publication of the Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon (PLSO). It is provided as a medium for the expression of individual opinions concerning topics relating to the Land Surveying profession. Address changes & business All notifications for changes of address, membership inquiries, and PLSO business correspondence should be directed to Aimee McAuliffe, 1307 NE 102nd Ave., Ste D #229 Portland, OR 97220; 503-303-1472; execdirector@plso.org. Editorial matters & contributions of material The Oregon Surveyor welcomes your articles, comments, and photos for publication. PLSO assumes no responsibility for statements expressed in this publication. Editorial matters should be directed to Vanessa Salvia, vsalvia@gmail.com. Advertising policy Advertising content and materials are subject to approval of the PLSO Board and Big Red M. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertising that simulates copy; material must be clearly marked as “Advertisement.” For advertising, contact: Ronnie Jacko, ronnie@bigredm.com; 503-445-2234 A publication of the Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon Executive Secretary Aimee McAuliffe 1307 NE 102nd Ave., Ste D #229 Portland, OR 97220 503-303-1472 Toll-free: 844-284-5496 execdirector@plso.org www.plso.org Published by Big Red M www.bigredm.com Advertising Ronnie Jacko, ronnie@bigredm.com Design Hope Sudol © 2025 Big Red M Editor Vanessa Salvia Publications Committee Tim Kent, Interim Chair Pat Gaylord Josh Herzberg Jordan Fletcher Contents Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon @ORLandSurveyors The Oregon Vol. 48, No. 6 November/December 2025 Editorials From the PLSO Chair, by Dan Nelson, PLS, PLSO Chair of the Board 2 From the PLSO Office, by Aimee McAuliffe, PLSO Executive Secretary 4 Featured Articles PLSO Receives NCEES Foundation Grant to Launch Statewide Workforce Development Initiatives 8 A Visit to Lassen Volcanic National Park, by Renee Clough, PLS, PE, AICP 14 Constitution vs. Coordinates, by Garrett Christensen 16 Mound of Stone, by Tim Kent 21 Columns Member Spotlight, by Vanessa Salvia 10 The Lost Surveyor, by Pat Gaylord, PLS 22 Surveyors in the News, by Pat Gaylord, PLS 26
2 The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 B y the time you’re reading this, my term as your PLSO Chair will be nearing its close. It’s a strange feeling—part reflection, part relief, and a whole lot of gratitude. When I began this journey, I set out with one simple goal: to help move our organization and our profession forward, leaving it just a little better than I found it. Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the woods. Perhaps that’s why surveying was so appealing to me. My dad used to say, “Always leave your campsite better than you found it.” That philosophy has stuck with me throughout life and my career, and it’s what I’ve tried to apply in every role I’ve held—especially this one. Looking back over the past year, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together. The strength of PLSO has always come from the collective energy and commitment of its members, and this year has been no exception. Through your participation, your mentorship, and your advocacy, we’ve made real progress on several fronts—progress that will have lasting impact for years to come. From the PLSO Chair Dan Nelson, PLS, PLSO Board Chair Leaving The Profession Stronger Than We Found It Building Visibility and Momentum Our Northwest Surveyor branding effort continues to gain momentum, reaching tens of thousands of people across social media platforms and generating real public awareness about what surveyors do and why it matters. For decades, surveying has quietly underpinned the built environment, yet it’s often overlooked by the very people who rely on our work. This campaign has helped to change that. Each new post, video, and story puts our profession in front of fresh eyes— students exploring career paths, veterans transitioning to civilian work, and even parents helping their kids figure out what comes next. The result has been powerful: more visibility, more curiosity, and more conversation about surveying than I’ve seen in years. It’s a great reminder that outreach doesn’t just happen through legislation or classroom visits; it happens every time we share our passion for this profession. Strengthening Our Connection with Oregon State University One of my personal goals this year was to strengthen PLSO’s relationship with Oregon State University, its Geomatics program, and students. That connection is crucial to the future of surveying in Oregon. I’m pleased to say that the partnership between the OSU student chapter and the broader PLSO community is growing stronger by the month. Recently, I had the opportunity to meet with OSU faculty and attend a student-led PLSO meeting. The energy, professionalism, and enthusiasm I witnessed that day left no doubt in my mind—the future of this program is in capable hands. These students are not only learning the technical aspects of surveying, they’re embracing the sense of community and collaboration that defines our profession. Through continued mentorship, presentations, workshops, and engagement, we can help these young surveyors bridge the gap between the classroom and the field, ensuring they understand not only how to survey, but why we do what we do. Walking into that first meeting and seeing a packed house full of students is one of the most rewarding experiences of my term, and I’m confident that continued involvement from PLSO members will help this relationship flourish. A Voice in Washington, D.C. Another highlight this year was participating in the NSPS Day on the Hill in Washington, D.C. My wife and I joined several other PLSO delegates for a whirlwind day The fire is still burning, the tents are sturdy, and the trail ahead looks promising. My hope is that each of you will continue tending this space, adding your own logs to the fire, and leaving it even better for those who come next.
3 Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon | www.plso.org From the PLSO Chair How to Send Us Your Work Please email the editor Vanessa Salvia with submissions: vsalvia@gmail.com. Your submission should be in .doc format. Please send images separately (not embedded in the document) and at the highest file size available (MB size range versus KB size range—larger sizes are encouraged). Please include the author’s name and email address or phone number for contact. of meetings, conversations, and advocacy on behalf of surveyors across the nation. We met with staffers from each of Oregon’s House Representatives and both U.S. Senators, discussing issues that affect our work, our businesses, and our ability to serve the public. Riding the old underground train to the Capitol building, walking those marble halls, and seeing firsthand how policy ideas can spark legislation was both humbling and inspiring. Our meetings were productive, and the staffers we spoke with were genuinely interested in what we had to say. It reinforced an important truth—when surveyors show up, our voices matter. I encourage anyone who’s ever thought about participating to join us next year. The larger our group, the louder our collective voice becomes. Passing the Torch As I prepare to hand over the gavel, I couldn’t be more confident in the leadership that’s stepping forward. Incoming Chair Brent Corning and Chair-Elect Josh Kowalski are both deeply committed to advancing PLSO’s mission and supporting its members. Brent’s steady leadership and thoughtful perspective will serve the organization well, and Josh’s enthusiasm and forward-thinking approach will help carry PLSO into the next chapter. I’m excited to see where they take things next. Leadership is never about one person—it’s about continuity, teamwork, and shared vision. I know they’ll continue the momentum we’ve built and find new ways to strengthen our profession across Oregon. Mentorship, Legacy, and the “Campsite Rule” Over the course of my career, I’ve come to realize that our profession doesn’t just depend on technology, regulations, or credentials—it depends on people. It depends on the willingness of one surveyor to take the time to teach another. That’s the foundation of how I learned, and it’s how most of us did. In a world where mentorship is becoming harder to find, especially in small firms, PLSO provides something truly special: a network of peers who are willing to help each other grow. I’ve said before that the professionals I met at my local chapter meeting helped me grow when I found myself struggling and without proper guidance. The relationships I’d built through PLSO—people who were technically my competitors—became the mentors I needed most. They shared advice, offered support, and helped me find my footing in this profession. That’s the spirit I hope continues to define PLSO: surveyors helping surveyors, not because they have to, but because they care about leaving the profession better than they found it. That phrase—“leave it better than you found it”—still resonates deeply with me. Whether it’s a campsite, a workplace, or an entire profession, the principle is the same. We are all temporary stewards of something bigger than ourselves. Our job isn’t just to enjoy it while we’re here—it’s to protect it, improve it, and hand it off in better condition to those who follow. Looking Ahead The future of surveying in Oregon is bright. Our visibility is growing. Our relationship with OSU is building. Our chapters are active. And our leadership team is strong. The work is never truly finished —there will always be challenges to face and opportunities to seize—but I’m confident that PLSO is heading in the right direction. As I close out my time as Chair, I want to express my sincere gratitude to every one of you who has contributed to the success of this organization. Whether you’ve chaired a committee, mentored a student, volunteered at a conference, or simply renewed your membership, you’ve played a role in building something meaningful. I want to thank the Board of Directors for working with me this year. This was a team effort and I hope my enthusiasm is shared by you all. I especially want to thank Aimee McAuliffe for all of her hard work and guidance. I could not have made it through this year without her. So as I take one last look around this “campsite,” I’m proud of what we’ve built together. The fire is still burning, the tents are sturdy, and the trail ahead looks promising. My hope is that each of you will continue tending this space, adding your own logs to the fire, and leaving it even better for those who come next.
4 The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 From the PLSO Office Aimee McAuliffe, PLSO Exec. Secretary A Preview of Our January Conference I f you’re anything like me, the turn of the year always brings a sense of anticipation—not just for what’s to come in our personal lives, but for the opportunities and challenges waiting for us professionally. And for those of us in the PLSO family, January now means it’s almost time for our annual conference. I’m excited to share a sneak peek at what we have in store for the 2026 Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon Annual Conference, which will be held January 14–16 in Salem. Whether you’re a conference veteran or thinking about attending for the first time, this year’s event promises to be a memorable one. Let’s get the logistics out of the way first. Registration opened in early November, and we’ve already seen a strong early turnout—which is always encouraging. If you haven’t signed up yet, I highly recommend taking advantage of our Early Bird Registration, which is available through December 31. After that date, online registration will increase by $50, and if you wait until you’re walking up to the door onsite, it’ll go up another $15. So do yourself a favor: Register now, and secure your room at The Grand Hotel before things fill up. It’s one less thing to worry about after the holidays. As of this writing, our Conference Committee is still finalizing the speaker lineup, but I’m happy to share an overview of what’s already on the agenda. Our goal every year is to address the real-world iss- ues our members face daily—balancing the technical, the legal, and the interpersonal. This year is no exception. Here’s a look at some of the highlights. Sharpening Our Boundary Skills Boundary retracement is one thing that never goes out of style, even as technology continues to evolve. We’re bringing back John Stahl, who will be leading a session called “Seven Pillars of Surveying —Facts and Fallacies.” John has a knack for challenging assumptions and helping us separate long-standing traditions from actual legal principles. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re doing something because it’s the law or just because “that’s how it’s always been done,” this session is for you. Ron Nelms will be back as well, with his session, “Avoid Being Precisely Wrong, Vaguely Right, and Other Taboos During Boundary Retracements.” Ron’s focus on decision-making, especially when the evidence is muddy or conflicting, is something every surveyor can relate to. He’ll dive into the nuances of interpreting records and documenting findings—a must-attend for anyone who’s ever agonized over a tricky boundary call. And for a trip back in time, Brian Portwood and Eli Adam will walk us through “Examining the Historical Development of Boundary Law in the United States.” Their session connects our present-day work to the legal precedents and survey systems that shaped land law in this country. It’s a great reminder that we’re not just technicians; we’re part of a long and storied tradition. Datums, PLSS, and the Coming Coordinate Changes We all know that change is coming on the technical front, and the upcoming shift in national datums is front and center for Our goal every year is to address the real-world issues our members face daily—balancing the technical, the legal, and the interpersonal. This year is no exception. Have You Registered Yet?
5 Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon | www.plso.org From the PLSO Office many of us. Jason Foose will present a session on the PLSS Datum. As the National Geodetic Survey prepares to roll out new reference frames to replace NAD 83 and NAVD 88, Jason will help us understand what this means for our work in Oregon—especially within the Public Land Survey System. He’ll cover practical steps for adapting workflows, dealing with mixed-datum datasets, and making sure that the transition is as smooth as possible for both public and private projects. Surveyors and the Legal System Our work doesn’t just stay in the field or in the office; it often ends up in courtrooms and boardrooms. This year, several sessions will focus on our responsibilities when our measurements and maps become part of legal disputes. Ron Nelms will present “Expert Testimonies and Depositions for Dummies,” a candid look at what it’s really like to be called as an expert witness. John Stahl will build on that with “The Surveyor’s Role as Expert Witness,” sharing his hard-won advice on documentation, preparation, and clear communication under pressure. Brian Portwood will also be tackling an increasingly important topic with “Understanding the Federal Quiet Title Act.” As federal land issues become more prominent in the Western states, understanding how this law affects land disputes is essential. And Jason Foose’s “How Surveying Serves the Courts” will highlight how our impartial data forms the backbone of fair decisions in property cases. Learning from Real-World Experience I’ve always believed that some of the best lessons come from hearing about other people’s field experiences—the good, the bad, and the occasionally bizarre. This year, Mike Berry will present his case study, “Vampire Cemetery—or—A Retracement of a Portion of the 1904 Plat of Laidlaw in Deschutes County.” Mike will show us how historical research and boots-on-the-ground evidence come together in real-world retracements, and how to handle inconsistencies between record and occupation. Rebecca Jackson will share “Avoiding Litigation with a Simple Survey—Case Studies in Boundary and Easement Disputes.” Her stories highlight how clear client communication and attention to title details can prevent a lot of headaches—and legal bills—down the road. And for those interested in hydrographic surveying, Jon Dasler’s “Advances in Hydrographic Surveying and Overview of the 2025 Resurvey of the Columbia River” will provide insights on the latest methods, including sonar integration and GNSS control, and how these advances are being applied in large-scale, cross-agency projects. Embracing Technology— Everyday Tools for Today’s Surveyor It’s no secret that technology is rewriting the rules of surveying. This year’s conference will showcase practical sessions on using drones, photogrammetry, and point clouds—not as optional extras, but as everyday tools. Chris Jackson’s “Modernizing Bridge Inspection: UAS Workflows for Complex Infrastructure” will show how drones can safely and efficiently document challenging structures. Jim Reinbold’s “Drone Photogrammetry and Data Extraction for CAD” will dive into the nuts and bolts of turning drone imagery into usable survey data. And Corey King and Noah Flick will explore “Powering Modern GIS Extraction with Feature Code Libraries and Point Clouds,” which is all about streamlining data between field and GIS teams. If you’re looking to get more comfortable with these technologies —or just want to see what’s possible— these sessions are for you. Building Stronger Teams and Better Communication Of course, surveying isn’t just about math and measurements. It’s also about continues
6 The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 From the PLSO Office working effectively with people—whether they’re teammates, clients, or engineers from other disciplines. Brett Murphy’s “Team Building Microlessons: Soft Skills & Emotional Literacy for Geomatics Professionals” will focus on leadership, communication, and the softer skills that keep offices and field crews running smoothly. Chris Pucci will present “What Does Your New Civil Engineer Really Know About Surveying?”—a session that promises to bridge the gap between surveyors and engineers, reducing misunderstandings and smoothing out project workflows. Honoring Our Past, Investing in Our Future Surveyors have always played a vital role as stewards of the historical record. Brian Portwood and Kurt Luebke will present “Laws, Acts, Surveys, Surveyors, and Monumentation of Crater Lake National Park,” delving into how early surveys shaped the park’s boundaries and how monumentation continues to preserve those records. This kind of work reminds us that we’re not just solving today’s problems—we’re building a legacy for future generations. Celebrating Excellence and Supporting the Next Generation The afternoon of January 15 will be extra special, featuring two major events: the Awards Ceremony and the Annual Membership Meeting. The Awards Ceremony is always a highlight for me, as we get to recognize the outstanding achievements and dedication of our members. It’s a moment to celebrate the best our profession has to offer. Immediately after, the Annual Membership Meeting gives everyone a chance to voice concerns, ask questions, and get updates about the direction of PLSO in the coming year. Another important tradition is the Education and Outreach Auction dinner, held on the evening of January 15. This event is more than just fun—it’s our chance to support scholarships and outreach initiatives, ensuring that aspiring surveyors have the resources and encouragement they need to join the profession. Whether you’re donating an item, bidding, or just soaking up the atmosphere, know that your participation makes a real difference. Connecting, Learning, and Moving Forward— Together When I look at the lineup for this year’s conference, what stands out most is how it reflects the spirit of our community— collaborative, forward-thinking, and committed to both technical excellence and professional stewardship. There will be plenty of opportunities to visit with vendors, hear updates from OSBEELS, and, perhaps most importantly, to network and reconnect with friends and colleagues from across the state. For working surveyors, this is truly the best time each year to swap stories, pick up new insights, and dig into the issues that are shaping surveying in Oregon. When we come together in Salem this January, it’s about more than just checking a box for continuing education. It’s about sharing experiences, getting back to the basics, and looking ahead—together —at the challenges and opportunities that keep our profession vibrant and essential. I would be remiss if I didn’t thank two groups of people—the Conference Committee, run by Jered McGrath, and on behalf of the Committee, we would all like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors, whose generous support is instrumental in keeping our conference registration fees affordable as venue costs continue to rise. Those companies are CMT, AKS, S&F Land Services, LJ Friar and Associates PC, US Survey Supply, Neathamer Surveying, David Evans and Associates, Frontier Precision, Mackay Sposito, and KPFF. I hope to see each of you there. If you haven’t registered yet, it’s easy to do so online at https://plso.org/Conference. Let’s make the 2026 conference our best yet. See you in Salem! In September, Tim Kent attended a program about the Geomatics program at Oregon Institute of Technology. Neslihan Alp, Dean of the College of Engineering, Technology, and Management, shared this information on behalf of Geomatics, which is now a part of the Applied Computing and Geomatics Department. continued ABET Accreditation The Geomatics–Surveying program is fully accredited by ABET through 2030, with no shortcomings. This is a significant achievement for both the program and the College of ETM. New Faculty Hire The department hired a new tenure-track faculty member in Surveying, Dr. Mohsen Arjmand, who recently earned his PhD from Oregon State University. He began teaching in fall term. Enrollment Growth Online enrollment in Geomatics continues to grow. With two weeks before the fall term begins, OIT reported 49 students in the program, up from 45 last year. Oregon Institute of Technology Update
Where Learning, Growth and Connection Happen 2026 Conference Join Your Professional Community January 14-16 in Salem! Early Bird Pricing ends December 31St! let’s get together! register at www.plso.org/conference Build a strong, reliable network of industry professionals who know you as a real person. Whether you’re looking for new job opportunities or want to stay ahead of the curve, the connections you make here can open doors for the future.
8 The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 Featured Article PLSO Receives NCEES Foundation Grant to Launch Statewide Workforce Development Initiatives The Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2024–25 grant recipient by the NCEES Foundation, receiving funding to support a series of new initiatives designed to grow and strengthen Oregon’s land surveying workforce. The initiatives, set to roll out over the coming year, will focus on increasing public awareness of the surveying profession, building stronger career pathways, and promoting licensure as the foundation of professional practice. Efforts will include outreach to students, veterans, and career seekers, as well as tools and resources to help small firms participate in meaningful workforce development. The PLSO Board of Directors will convene in October to begin formal planning and implementation of these programs, with the goal of launching multiple efforts ahead of the 2026 hiring season. These initiatives are part of PLSO’s ongoing commitment to ensuring a strong, skilled, and licensed surveying workforce for the future. “PLSO is honored to be recognized by the NCEES Foundation and to have the opportunity to build programs that deliver real impact across Oregon,” said Executive Secretary Aimee McAuliffe. “This is about investing in the next generation and providing our members with tools to grow the profession.” National Support for Licensure Advancement PLSO joins 12 other organizations nationwide awarded grants by the NCEES Foundation in its 2024–25 funding cycle. Recipients include universities, state societies, and professional associations whose projects aim to advance engineering and surveying licensure and protect the public welfare. Some of this year’s funded projects include: • Outreach and licensure support for underrepresented professionals • K–12 and college STEM engagement programs • University-led recruitment and retention initiatives • Career development programs for rural communities and veterans The NCEES Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, supports efforts that directly promote the value of professional licensure and strengthen the engineering and surveying pipeline nationwide. Looking Ahead The Foundation is currently accepting donations for the 2025–26 funding cycle. Contributions at Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels help support future programs like those led by PLSO and will be recognized in NCEES publications and events. Letters of inquiry for the next round of funding opened October 1, 2025. To learn more about PLSO’s work, visit plso.org. For more information about the NCEES Foundation and how to contribute, visit ncees.org/foundation. “PLSO is honored to be recognized by the NCEES Foundation and to have the opportunity to build programs that deliver real impact across Oregon,” said Executive Secretary Aimee McAuliffe.
9 Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon | www.plso.org ADVERTISE TO SUPPORT YOUR ASSOCIATION! Grow Your Business. Give Back to the Industry. Fuel Your Association’s Impact. For more information, please contact: Ronnie Jacko • 503-445-2234 • ronnie@bigredm.com
10 Header The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 Member Spotlight For Cael Neathamer of Neathamer Surveying, the path into surveying wasn’t a matter of chance, it was a family tradition. “I basically chased my dad around when I was a kid, because that’s what he did and that intrigued me,” Neathamer explains. His father, Bob Neathamer, had an established surveying business, and by the time Cael reached high school, he was working summers for his dad. “At that age, I don’t think I knew which way was up, but I do like the outdoors,” Neathamer recalls of his early exposure to the profession. What started as summer work gradually developed into a genuine appreciation for the field. “I always had fun going out with him,” he says, describing those formative years learning the trade under his father’s wing. Born in Oregon but raised in Montague, California, just across the border, Neathamer took what he calls “the long way” to becoming a licensed surveyor. “I went to junior college for a couple years in Sacramento, but never did get a degree out of it. Afterwards I came back to surveying in the same company as my dad, and the more I worked, the more I liked it.” He started as a rod man and worked his way up. It wasn’t until 2000 that he decided to pursue his professional license in Oregon, driven by encouragement from others in the field. Neathamer returned to Oregon full-time in 1993, where his father had established the family business. Bob started Neathamer Surveying in the fall of 1995, with Cael joining officially in the spring of 1996. By Vanessa Salvia Cael Neathamer Neathamer Surveying https://neathamer.com Cael at work.
11 Header Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon | www.plso.org Member Spotlight Today, Neathamer Surveying handles a wide array of projects, from cadastral to geodetic networks, and elevation certificates, including having a certified floodplain manager on staff. “We do land use planning, but the majority of our work, I would say, of what we do right now is either related to topographic and boundary surveys or subdivisions,” Neathamer said. He finds the variety particularly interesting. “You could have a boundary survey two days in a row, different boundary surveys, and they’d be totally different,” he said. “It’s just such a unique practice, such a unique thing to do, chasing down deed records and trying to make a physical object in the real world.” The family tradition continues with the next generation. Cael’s son Josh serves as the company’s head party chief, while nephew Derrick Neathamer handles IT duties, and Cael’s younger brother Cory Neathamer has rejoined the business. “It’s a family affair,” he said. Cael has been a PLSO member since 1993 and has taken on significant leadership roles within the organization. He served as Secretary-Treasurer for about four years, then moved through the positions of President-Elect and President, spending two years on the board. “Number one, it’s a neat group of people,” he said about why he likes being part of the PLSO. “And then also, you just get so much out of it. You can go to the workshops. You get a lot of support. I like what they’re trying to do with the outreach efforts.” The networking aspect proves particularly valuable in practice. “I know whenever we’ve had a problem, we turn to somebody that we’ve met or known through PLSO and it always works out,” he said. The organization has also facilitated business opportunities Cael Neathamer, left, and Bob Neathamer. “Number one, it’s a neat group of people,” he said about why he likes being part of the PLSO. “And then also, you just get so much out of it. You can go to the workshops. You get a lot of support. I like what they’re trying to do with the outreach efforts.” Cael out in the woods. continues
12 Header The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 Member Spotlight because his team has cross-shared projects across the state with people who have told him, ’Hey, you should call so and so, because he’s been surveyed.’ We know that kind of thing because of our relationship with PLSO.” Neathamer’s commitment to professional involvement stems from lessons learned from his father. “I learned it through my dad. I definitely don’t do it as much as he does, because he’s involved with OIT and all kinds of things, but I think if you give, you’re going to get back even more. He always taught me to pay it forward.” He said he received a lot of mentorship as a younger surveyor and appreciates the more experienced people who took the time to talk to him, provide him with resources, or just talk over the details of whatever project he was working on. Neathamer is particularly impressed with PLSO’s recent outreach efforts. He believes younger professionals connecting with potential new surveyors is more effective than traditional approaches. “I think the younger the person is that’s talking to the younger generation below them, it’s going to attract them more, and they’re going to pay more attention to that,” he said. For recruiting at the company level, Neathamer Surveying has found success with direct engagement. For a long time, they used to recruit out of Dutch Bros stands, a popular coffee chain. “We do mock interviews,” he said. “And we got a lot of good employees, I’d say probably four or five good employees out of that, and one of them still works here right now who has been with us about 15 years.” Their approach often includes hands-on demonstrations, showing interested people the software and some 3D topographic surveys the company has done. He says that via a ride-along often usually grabs people. When he’s not working, Neathamer enjoys outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and camping. He says he and his family get together frequently outside of the office, for a barbecue, holidays, or just to hang out. Although Cael says that he didn’t know what he wanted to do when he was in high school and was trying to figure out a path, he clearly found his calling in surveying, where he is now a respected professional and PLSO leader. The right combination of family guidance, hands-on experience, and professional involvement can build anyone a rewarding career in surveying, and now, Cael and Neathamer Surveying is committed to professional excellence and supporting the next generation of surveyors. Cael with Jordan, his daughter and scouting partner. Cael's son, Josh. The family tradition continues with the next generation. Cael’s son Josh serves as the company’s head party chief, while nephew Derrick Neathamer handles IT duties, and Cael’s younger brother Cory Neathamer has rejoined the business. “It’s a family affair,” he said. continued
13 Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon | www.plso.org
14 The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 Featured Article Renee Clough, PLS, PE, AICP, and her father, John Minor, who is also a surveyor, went on a family trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park the last week of September.
15 Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon | www.plso.org Featured Article While there, they found several survey monuments to take selfies with.
16 The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 Featured Article Constitution vs. Coordinates From the outside looking in, recreational hunting may seem like a relatively straight forward affair. In practice, however, the process of getting a tag, let alone filling it, can be both complicated and costly. Some hunters potentially wait years if not decades to acquire their preferred tag in an ideal unit and can invest upwards of thousands of dollars all for the chance of a perfect hunt. Roughly two and half years ago, Robert Shawn Humphrey, a long-time Oregon resident from Hermiston, was given that chance thanks to the generosity of his son and the dedication of a local guide. What should have been the trip of a lifetime and a memory to last the ages, unfortunately turned into a legal nightmare for all involved, culminating in the questioning of a state constitution. The story of the disputed hunt began in 2021 when Robert finally drew an elk tag for the Wenaha Unit after two decades of applying. Unable to fill the tag that year, his son, Cody Humphrey, stepped in to give him another shot in the Wenaha in 2022, sparing no expense. Cody purchased a prestigious Oregon Governor’s Tag for $71,000 (the majority of which went toward the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Access and Habitat program) and hired local hunting guide Brian Sanders (owner of Oregon Backcountry Outfitting) along with a professional videographer. As Cody commented: “I think every guy wants to shoot a big bull once in their lifetime, especially him. He’s hunted his whole life, and he’s never had a chance at a big bull like that, and I wanted to give him that opportunity.” As is standard for this type of trophy hunt, Sanders would scout out a bull in advance before contacting Cody and Robert again. In early October 2022, the hunt began, with the party traveling into the northern Wallowa County Wenaha wilderness via horseback from the Washington side to link up with Sanders. In total, the group consisted of Sanders, Robert and Cody Humphrey, two of Sanders’ guides, his significant other, and the videographer. Following a delay due to rough terrain and a minor miscommunication regarding the rendezvous point, the group How an Oregon hunter’s dream became a legal nightmare By Garrett Christensen
17 Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon | www.plso.org Featured Article continues would eventually encounter the bull near the Hoodoo trailhead, just south of the Washington border in Fairview Canyon. On October 9, 2022 (a date provided by Sander’s attorney, Tim Note), Robert took the shot and took the elk. What followed the immediate celebration of the trophy kill was around eight months of calm for everyone involved, until Cody posted a video commemorating the hunt on YouTube. Soon after, an unknown party (as of time of writing) reached out to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife with a tip that the kill had actually occurred in Washington. This set off an investigation by both WDFW and the Oregon State Police (OSP) that would eventually culminate in legal action. To clarify, while most members of the party were investigated in some capacity for the alleged illegal killing of a trophy bull elk in Columbia County Washington, charges were only ever formally filed against Robert Humphrey and Brian Sanders by the Columbia County Superior Court. During the case, Brian Sanders was represented by Spokane criminal defense attorney Tim Note, Robert Humphrey was represented by Spokane criminal defense attorney Steve Graham, and prosecution was led by Columbia County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Cindy Koon. As Koon was out of the office and unavailable for comment at the time of research, Columbia County Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Jennine Christensen responded to media inquiries and provided information based on Koon’s case notes. Charges were formally filed in early October 2024, just prior to what would have been the expiration for the statute of limitations in Washington. In an interview with Elkhorn Media Group, Sanders recalled the surprise of initially being contacted by OSP: “So, [Cody] posted it on YouTube. Well, the Oregon State cops called me and said that they were asking about where we think that bull was shot and all these things. I said, ‘you’ve got to be kidding me.’” Sanders’ attorney, Tim Note, offered a more detailed explanation of how the video may have resulted in the false tip: “They actually rode and camped in Washington, because that’s where the nearest water was for horses after the bull was killed. They have a lot of B-roll footage of them riding up by a place called Mud Springs, and so people looked at that video and said, ‘Oh, that’s in Washington.’” Following initial interviews and investigation with the party, WDFW focused predominantly on the exact location of the kill site, which remains contested. According to Note, investigators, utilizing onX Maps and cross-referencing stills from the video, hiked back to the Hoodoo Trailhead, locating what they believed to be the shooting site approximately 45 yards into Washington and elk bones from the kill site approximately 100 yards into Washington. Christensen, based on Koon’s notes, provided more precise coordinates: “The bull apparently travelled south after it had been shot and finally rested at: 45.99977, -117.60969. This was the location of the bone pile I believe. The shooting site was: 45.99928, -117.606170. The party glassing/resting location after locating the bull and prior to shooting was: 45.99948, -117.60444.” According to the onX maps, these coordinates put the kill site just north of the border. Disputing the coordinates, Sanders himself would return to the area and confirm the presence of signs marking the Oregon-Washington border, which the party attested to having passed during the initial hunt. GPS data collected by Sanders further indicated the kill site was south of these signs. As explained by Note: “There’s a sign that clearly says Washington State Boundary. There’s another sign that’s pretty desiccated, but you can tell just because there’s a couple of visible letters that it’s the same sign that says Washington State Boundary, 900 yards away. Those signs are facing south. Then, there’s a sign facing north that he also took a picture of that was burned over that said, ‘State of Oregon.’” According to Christensen, the prosecution concluded separately that these signs were likely not official, explaining: “One or both defendants did send photos of signs. Ms. Koon contacted various local and federal agencies, none of whom had records of posting the signs. The signs themselves had no designation on them. It seems most likely that they were hung by a civilian without any legal authority.” In addition to disputing the exact border location, the defense also questioned the accuracy and legitimacy of the coordinates provided by onX Maps. For those unfamiliar, onX is a private mapping app/software commonly used for outdoor recreation
18 The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 Featured Article and hunting purposes that generates its map data through various sources. Note, as well as Sanders and the Humphreys, expressed concern that onX displayed the exact border inaccurately and that the software’s own terms of use negated its authority in a legal context. As written verbatim in Section 16, subsection (e) of the onX terms of use: “THE CONTENT MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE SERVICE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A LEGAL SURVEY. OWNERSHIP OF LAND, WHETHER PUBLIC OR PRIVATE, MAY CHANGE AT ANY TIME. TO OBTAIN THE DEFINITIVE DESCRIPTION OF REAL PROPERTY, CONSULT THE DEED OR OTHER OFFICIAL RECORD MAINTAINED BY THE APPLICABLE GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY. DO NOT USE THE SERVICE FOR ANY PURPOSE REQUIRING PRECISE DIRECTION, DISTANCE, LOCATION OR CURRENT CONDITIONS.” However, the lynchpin that would settle the case was the legal definition of the state boundary rather than the boundary displayed via GPS and survey data. While the defense and prosecution continued to examine coordinates and on-site evidence, Note began to look at the border as legally defined by Washington state: “What came up was the Washington State Constitution, Article 24, Section 1 that describes our boundary and specifically describes, the center channel of the Columbia River until it intersects with the 46th parallel center channel of the Columbia River near the mouth of the Walla Walla River, then in a straight line across the 46th parallel until it intersects the center channel of the Snake River. These [coordinates] cannot start with a 45 and be in Washington, period. Not according to our state constitution.” The section Note is referencing can be found at https://leg. wa.gov/state-laws-and-rules/washington-state-constitution/ ?section=ARTICLE%20XXIV#SECTION-1. When asked about the constitutional definition, Christensen offered the prosecution’s perspective, which is that, in practice, the true border is not as definitive: “The defense brought to our attention the constitutional definition of the border, which, as you understand, simply says the 46th parallel. When it comes to actual property lines as mapped by the USGS, county assessors, and other pinpoint locations along the WA-OR border for purposes of taxes, roads, utilities, etc., that border wavers from the 46th… While changing the constitution is no easy task, in 1956 RCW 43.58.060 was ratified. If you consult that statute, you will find the precise border fluctuates from higher than 46 degrees down to 45+ degrees.” Steve Graham, Robert Humphrey’s attorney, offered a similar sentiment to Note regarding the prosecution’s non-definitive definition of the border: “All of that is secondary and subservient to the federal statute, which created statehood for Oregon and Washington. Both those statutes that pre-date statehood say 46th parallel for the border.” Though onX Maps was the tool used by investigators on site at the time, the prosecution did make reference to other publicly available maps and border classification during correspondence with Elkhorn Media Group. Christensen explained that the official Wenaha Unit map published by WDFW in 2021 utilizes the U.S. Geological Survey data. The USGS interactive map places the border at approximately latitude 45.999100. The 2021 Imnaha map also includes a disclaimer for potential conflicts in the exact map data, reading: “Due to the dynamic nature of data and the need to rely on outside sources of information, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions in the data and information contained in this product. There are no warranties that accompany the maps and information contained in this product. For legal definitions of hunting regulations, seasons, and boundaries, the user should refer to Chapters 220-410-01 through 220-410-06 of the Washington Administrative Code (http://www.leg.wa.gov/wac/).” Washington Administrative Code (WAC) WAC 220-410-010 does offer a detailed description of the Wenaha Unit’s boundaries, though the southern portion is only broadly defined as, “The Oregon-Washington State Line.” continued
19 Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon | www.plso.org Featured Article Still, working under the definition of the border as defined by the constitution, the defense at the time called into question the accuracy and legitimacy of the onX data used in the investigation. According to Note, the 46th parallel put the bones found by WDFW around 100 yards south of the border, and the shooting site around 128 yards south of the border, with the discrepancy between onX maps and the constitutional border being around 237 yards. According to the coordinates provided by Sanders, the local signage discovered by the party during the hunt is closer to the constitutional border than the onX generated border, as described by Note: “The boundary signs that Mr. Sanders provided to me, their GPS locations, one of them was 46.00097, so within feet of the true 46th parallel. The other one was 46.00012. So, some old timer, with probably a plumb line, a transit and a level, went in there and found the nearest tree to the border 50 or 60 years ago and got it right.” With the defense pointing to the Washington State Constitution’s 46th parallel definition, and WDFW investigators conceding that their recorded coordinates were all in the high 45 degree range, the prosecution would drop the charges against both men in late February of 2025. To clarify, the case never actually went to court, though was originally scheduled to go to trial in April 2025. Further, the charges being dropped did not correlate to an admittance of innocence from the prosecution. According to Christensen, the Columbia County Prosecutor’s office maintains a stance that the elk was likely still taken in Washington, stating: “Our official stance is that we had probable cause to believe the elk was shot, killed, and harvested in Washington then carried back to Oregon; however, given the uncertainty of the distinction between physical survey lines, the RCW, and the constitutional 46th parallel combined with the short distance at issue, we would not obtain an unanimous ruling of proof beyond a reasonable doubt that this occurred in Washington.” Robert Humphrey, having adamantly defended his and Sander’s innocence from the start, expressed frustration at the court seemingly maintaining their potential guilt despite the end of legal action, telling Elkhorn Media Group: “It alludes to the fact that we could still be illegal when we were not. If you read what they have to say on that paperwork, they allude to the fact that they just didn’t feel they could win it in a court of law. Well, why? If I’m totally innocent, why would you continue to press on that?” It’s not just the prosecution’s final stance that’s been called into question by those involved. The conduct of investigators leading up to the charges being filed, as well as some conduct of the prosecution prior to the dismissal has been criticized by the defendants and their attorneys. As mentioned prior, the defense questioned the apparent brashness of investigators in accepting the onX coordinates without cross referencing them to other mapping tools and failing to properly consult the constitutional definition of the border prior to charges being filed. Note even told Elkhorn Media Group that investigators sent him around two terabytes worth of discovery data, including video montages and PowerPoint presentations reviewing and, allegedly, celebrating the work of investigators before the case was properly resolved. Summarizing his thoughts on the use onX usage, Note remarked: “If I were to walk into court, like a property line dispute, and use onX Maps as my proof instead of a legal survey, I’d get laughed out of court.” During the proceedings, the prosecution would also propose plea agreements for both Robert and Sanders. According to an email from the prosecutor’s office shared by Graham, this proposal (at least Robert Humphrey’s) was issued alongside a claim that the U.S. Attorney’s office had also opened a federal investigation into the charges, with AUSA Tyler Tornabene assigned to the case. Given the heavy restrictions on hunting access, mandated fees, and other stringent conditions in the proposal, this deal was ultimately rejected by both Robert Humphrey and Brian Sanders. continues
20 The Oregon Surveyor | Vol. 48, No. 6 Featured Article As elaborated by Note: “We were offered a deal where basically if he surrendered his guide license, surrendered his hunting license, and agreed to be trespassed off all forest service property, they would dismiss his case after two years.” Graham and Cody likened the plea bargain and the threat of federal involvement to a form of bullying and intimidation. During the plea proposal to Graham, Koon would also insinuate that the potential federal penalties would result in the elk’s head being subject to forfeiture, though this never occurred. As remarked by Graham: “They tried to intimidate us. They said, ‘well, you need to give back the head, the antlers, the rack. You know, you need to do this. Otherwise, you’ll do a fine. We’ve been in contact with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and they’re going to prosecute under the Lacey Act if you don’t relent or complete the deal.’” Other critiques of the investigation include comments about the apparent persistence and aggressiveness of WDFW and OSP when initially questioning hunting party members, other comments that investigators proceeded too quickly in an effort to gain the prestige of cracking down on what that saw as a major illegal hunt, and an accusation of alleged trespassing on Robert Humphrey’s property. According to both the Humphreys and Graham, WDFW investigators drove past at least two marked no trespassing signs in Robert’s driveway to question him, which the three claim is illegal under Oregon law. The investigators then claimed they hadn’t seen the signs. According to Christensen, the trespassing was at some point brought up during the legal proceedings, but was disputed, explaining: “The only issue raised here was a defense argument that one of the defendant’s statements to an officer should be excluded because the officer knocked on his door despite there being no trespassing signs on his fence, contrary to Oregon law. I believe Ms. Koon filed a response and was confident in defeating the defense argument.” In March of 2025, the Law Office of Steve Graham officially filed a letter of complaint to the WDFW on behalf of Robert Humphrey regarding the alleged mishandling of the investigation. In the letter, Graham cites the over-reliance on onX Maps, the decision to continue the case despite the kill coordinates identified by officers being below the 46th parallel, and the alleged trespassing on Robert Humphrey’s property, among other issues. When asked what his office was seeking from the complaint, Graham explained: “An apology. I think some assurances this won’t happen again. Some realization that the game agents assumed the worst out of the participants here and that they were very gullible to believe the rumors and the anonymous source who said, ‘Oh, this is Washington.’” The full letter can be found at: https://www.grahamdefense.com/ documents/Humphrey-Letter-to-WDFW-comission-032725fcsa.pdf. Elkhorn Media Group did reach out to WDFW for comment on the case and the complaint filed by Graham’s office. The response, sent by WDFW Community Outreach Liaison/ Communications Specialist Becky Elder, is as follows: In late 2023 Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Police initiated an investigation into the alleged illegal killing of a trophy bull elk in Columbia County, WA in the fall of 2022, after receiving an anonymous tip. WDFW Officers concluded, after gathering physical evidence, a trophy bull elk was illegally harvested within Washington State in Game Management Unit (GMU) 169. This GMU is considered a special draw unit for Quality (Trophy) Bull elk. Fish and Wildlife Officers conducted a thorough investigation, using GPS mapping, conducting forensic analysis of video files and other photos taken during the hunt, conducting interviews, and making multiple trips to pinpoint the exact location of the incident using GPS coordinates, before referring charges to the Columbia County Prosecutor’s Office for a charging decision. We would like to thank our law enforcement counterparts in Oregon, as well as the U.S. Forest Service, Columbia County Prosecutors office, and the U.S. Attorney General’s office for their hard work on this case. Ultimately, the decision to charge and prosecute a criminal case remains within the authority of the prosecuting attorney’s office. Though the primary legal battle is over, frustration still unsurprisingly lingers. The legal costs and stress incurred over two years and, in the case of Sanders, the potential reputational and business damage due to rumors and accusations prior to the case being dropped, all stem from what seems to the defendants an unfounded source. As Sanders commented: “I feel like I was just basically maliciously prosecuted…I mean it took tens of thousands of dollars away from me and my family to fight a case that was just made up.” The case itself has also come to overshadow the effort that went into the original hunt and the excitement of Robert’s trophy bull. As Cody put it, “It kind of ruined a priceless memory for us.” As for what’s next in the Wenaha dispute saga, there is a possibility of potential follow-up legal action regarding the handling of the case. Sanders told Elkhorn Media Group that he and Note’s office do intend to pursue a follow-up civil case, though aside from the complaint letter against WDFW issued separately by Graham’s office, no further legal action has been confirmed as of the time of writing. This article was originally published by Elkhorn Media Group on June 9, 2025 and is reprinted by permission. Learn more about Elkhorn Media Group’s 15 radio stations serving Eastern Oregon and southeast Washington, digital, social, and video at https://elkhornmediagroup.com. Access the original article for a copy of the plea proposal for Robert Humphrey, which is linked at the end of the article: https://elkhornmediagroup.com/constitution-vscoordinates-how-an-oregon-hunters-dream-became-a-legal-nightmare. continued
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