Dear APSG Members,

Please see the news release sent out by Natural Resources Canada in regards to the new Canadian Geodetic Vertical Datum of 2013 being released:

The Canadian Geodetic Vertical Datum of 2013 (CGVD2013) is now available!

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is pleased to announce the release of the Canadian Geodetic Vertical Datum of 2013 (CGVD2013), which is now the reference standard for heights across Canada. This new height reference system replaces the Canadian Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1928 (CGVD28).

The chosen reference height of CGVD2013 derives from collaborative work and is formalized in an agreement between Geodetic organizations in United States of America and Canada. The vertical datum is now compatible with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) such as GPS.

The height of benchmarks is also now available in CGVD2013. These heights come from a readjustment of the entire existing federal first-order levelling network. Please note that the age of the benchmarks and the impact of regional instability since they were last observed may render them unreliable.  Re-observation is always recommended for critical applications requiring utmost accuracy.

NRCan is maintaining the publication of heights at benchmarks in CGVD28 for those who prefer to continue using the old reference and to assure a smooth and gradual transition period to the new height reference system.

More information is available at the web site of the Canadian Geodetic Survey, Surveyor General Branch, Geomatics Canada.

Jackie Portsmouth
APSG Chair-Houston Chapter
jackiep@santosinc.com
(O) 214-389-7058
(M) 972-854-1625