Canadian Spatial Reference System

Height Reference System Modernization

1984 Mandate of the Surveys and Mapping Branch

(As confirmed by Cabinet in 672-RD83 January 11, 1984)

Note the activities more directly related to the Geodetic Survey Division are underlined

As the national agency for surveying and mapping the Surveys and Mapping Branch of Energy, Mines and Resources has the responsibilities to:

  • formulate and maintain national standards for surveying and mapping which respond to Canadian needs, reflect changing technology and contribute to the formulation of internationally accepted standards and practices;
  • survey and map Canada and to disseminate, maintain and update national data bases concerning topographic, geodetic, geographic information and legal surveys of Canada Lands including the cartographic application of remote sensing to support the national needs and in particular the national government during times of emergency;

The present levels of service and their objectives are to:

  • foster and maintain national cartographic and survey standards including the associated research and development;
  • complete the national mapping program in both graphical and digital form before the end of the century and to maintain and upgrade topographic and cartographic digital files;
  • complete the national survey framework by the end of this decade and to enhance it thereafter to satisfy user requirements;
  • refurbish and maintain the national levelling network covering the settled areas in this century and to complete the necessary extension to the North early in the next century;
  • manage and regulate the surveying being carried out on Canada Lands, including the offshore, in conformance with the Canada Lands Surveys Act;
  • carry out the legal obligation for the Government of Canada through Surveys and Mapping Branch to maintain the international boundary with the United States and provide a service for internal boundary demarcation;
  • produce an up to date edition of the National Atlas of Canada every mid-census;
  • produce and maintain aeronautical charts required in support of military and civilian aviation in Canada;
  • develop the cartographic applications of modern technology including remote sensing technology and to effectively and efficiently apply modern technology in response to evolving and anticipated user needs;
  • reproduce and distribute maps, charts and survey products as required by the user including the maintenance of cartographic capability to support the national governments reaction to emergency.

Note: Cabinet reconfirmed the 1984 Mandate in a decision during 1987 (8-0325-87RD(01)).