Skagway Bathymetric Surveys

Navigating Alaska’s Hydrographic Surveying Challenges: RESPEC Delivers Precision in Adverse Conditions

Surveying Alaska’s rugged terrain is no ordinary task.

Craig Ranson, PLS Principal Land Surveyor craig.ranson@respec.com

Evan Venechuk, PLS Professional Land Surveyor evan.venechuk@respec.com

From navigating swift rivers to contending with unpredictable weather, the challenges complicate gathering precise data for transportation and infrastructure projects. Without accurate surveys, critical efforts—such as repairing roads, stabilizing riverbanks, and replacing damaged bridges—can face costly delays and inefficiencies. The need for detailed, actionable data in these high-stakes situations demands an experienced team capable of tackling obstacles head-on.

RESPEC’s expert surveying team is uniquely equipped to deliver results, even in the most demanding environments. Our team ensures reliable hydrographic and bathymetric mapping of underwater and terrestrial areas by combining innovative techniques, rigorous data validation, and adaptive problem-solving. Our surveyors’ ability to pivot and adjust plans in the field reflects a commitment to excellence and an understanding of the critical role surveys play in project success.

Two recent projects in the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park near Skagway, Alaska, underscore RESPEC’s capabilities. The first project addressed severe drainage issues along the Taya River and West Creek. Chronic flooding from inadequate culverts and erosion caused significant road damage, risking access to essential areas. RESPEC’s team mapped riverbeds and surrounding terrain to support designs for improved water flow and infrastructure resilience. The second project involved surveying for a replacement bridge along the Chilkoot Trail, a site that required precision planning to maintain its cultural and historical significance.

Both projects came with unique logistical challenges. For the drainage survey, shallow waters, fast currents, and submerged obstacles ruled out traditional boat-based methods. The team improvised by mounting hydrographic equipment on a pack raft and using chest waders to navigate shallow sections while tethering the raft for stability in deeper currents. For the Chilkoot Trail project, the team collaborated with the National Park Service to raft across the Taya River, shortening equipment transport times and minimizing disruptions to the site.

RESPEC’s rigorous field practices ensured accurate, high-quality data. During the project, data were reviewed and validated each night to prevent costly return trips. GPS and sonar readings were cross-referenced to ensure precision. These adaptive techniques delivered the results needed for infrastructure planning while meeting the park’s environmental and historical requirements.

By overcoming such challenges, RESPEC empowers clients to execute critical infrastructure improvements confidently. Our expertise ensures safer, more efficient transportation systems while safeguarding natural and historical treasures. With RESPEC, every project is built on a foundation of precision, innovation, and success—the essence of know-how.