Corner crossing experiences in 2025

My 2025 experience is that I checked out 2 corners.

At one corner, I found the USGS benchmark. There is a fence but the fence is clearly on public land. I will probably climb over that fence and cross that corner next year

At another corner, I could not find the benchmark. The cover was extremely thick and I didn't see any way to get over the fences. I will probably not return to that corner.
 
Just to clarify this. You are looking for section corners, not benchmarks.

A benchmark is a point of known elevation, possibly with latitude/longitude coordinates. These are often set in fairly obvious high points and potentially drilled into a rock outcropping.

A section corner is a survey monument marking the intersection of divided parcels. Assuming the cap is present, it is typically marked with the section number, township, and range. If the cap is not present, it could be a large (1.5-2") iron pipe or rebar. Section corners will often be #6 (0.75") rebar, possibly bigger or smaller. Lot corners are often #4 (0.5") or #5 rebar.
 
Can a benchmark also be a section corner?

An established section corner could almost certainly also be used as a benchmark. I can't recall having personally encountered that in this context, but I don't see any reason not.

I think it would be unlikely that the monument would be a benchmark first though.
 
I got one too! I know it’s a corner crossing thread but I love finding brass!
 

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