The Western Federation of Professional Surveyors (WFPS) Board of Directors met on March 17, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, in conjunction with the Western Regional Survey Conference. With strong attendance and participation from across the western states, the meeting reflected both the momentum within the profession and the challenges we continue to navigate.

This meeting also marked the return of a second Utah representative to WFPS board meetings. The UCLS board has approved the current UCLS chair-elect serving as a second director, providing an opportunity to gain exposure to regional issues and discussions prior to stepping into the role of chairman the following year. This approach strengthens continuity in leadership and ensures Utah remains well-informed and engaged at the regional level. Nathan Weber, our current chair-elect, attended and participated in the March meeting.

What continues to stand out for me at these meetings is the value of bringing all 13 states together in one room. While each state faces its own unique issues, there is a consistent theme of collaboration, shared problem-solving and a collective effort to advance the profession in meaningful ways.

WFPS Highlights

Leadership Transition

The meeting included the installation of the 2026-2027 WFPS officers, with Trent Keenan stepping into the role of chairman. Trent outlined several priorities for his term, including continued development of shared resources such as the Professional Surveyor (PS) Exam Study Program.

Western Regional Survey Conference

The 2026 Western Regional Survey Conference launched immediately following the board meeting, with approximately 1,300 attendees, a sold-out exhibit hall and full sponsorship participation. Over 300 auction items were donated to support education foundations, highlighting the strong industry support behind the event.

FS Study Program Success

The WFPS Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Study Program continues to gain traction as a high-quality, affordable resource. Priced at $199, the program includes 16 hours of instruction and has received strong feedback from participants who credit it with helping them pass the exam.

Workforce Development and Outreach

WFPS continues to leverage resources from the NSPS Workforce Development Committee, including Outreach 101 and CREW materials. Initiatives like beasurveyor.com and coordination with programs such as TAPS are helping introduce the profession to a broader audience.

State Highlights

Alaska: Membership continues to decline, but there are encouraging signs of renewed engagement from younger members. A standards-of-practice review is underway, and efforts are being made to relaunch a professional publication. Administrative Order 360 is significantly impacting regulatory requirements.

Arizona: The Board of Technical Registration has released its Minimum Standards rule package for public comment. APLS continues working toward legislation addressing the 2022 datum. The Young Surveyors Network remains highly active and now has formal representation on the board.

California: CLSA’s legislative effort to classify unlicensed surveying as a contractor violation was unsuccessful, but collaboration continues. A new license renewal education requirement will require surveyors to complete a regulatory-focused module. CLSA is also celebrating its 60th anniversary.

Colorado: Legislation (SB 26-025) addressing monumentation practices has passed the Senate and is under review in the House. The Board is modernizing monument record processes, including digital submission. Education remains strong, and mandatory continuing education is now in effect.

Hawaii: HALS continues advancing workforce development efforts, including CST testing locations and technician training partnerships. The 2027 conference will be held jointly with the GIS association.

Idaho: HB 512 restores the board’s authority to administer a state-specific jurisprudence exam. Trespass legislation reaffirmed surveyors’ right of entry. Strong scholarship support and national partnerships continue.

Montana: MARLS continues addressing COS denials, water rights concerns and boundary issues through engagement with agencies and stakeholders.

Nevada: University programs remain strong, though faculty recruitment continues. Scholarship support and student engagement remain a priority.

New Mexico: No significant updates were reported.

Utah: Utah has implemented an experience-only pathway to licensure. UCLS is working through challenges related to SB 104 and boundary-establishment documents. Outreach efforts remain strong, and a standard contract has been developed.

Washington: Strong membership growth and a successful conference. The Reference Manual has been updated, and YSN has been formalized as a chapter. Evaluation of future PLSS exam module underway.

Wyoming: The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear the corner crossing case. Efforts continue to expand surveying education into a four-year degree.

WFPS Programs and Initiatives

Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Study Course

WFPS continues to offer a comprehensive FS Study Course with approximately 16 hours of instruction, providing an affordable resource while generating revenue for member associations.

Steve Parrish Continuing Education Library

WFPS maintains an extensive library of continuing education webinars, offering flexible learning opportunities for surveyors across all states.

Conclusion

One of the biggest takeaways from this meeting is that, while the profession continues to evolve, the need for strong collaboration has never been greater. Whether it’s legislative challenges, education pathways or workforce development, the issues we’re facing are not unique to any one state.

That’s where WFPS provides real value — it enables us to share ideas, learn from each other and approach challenges with a broader perspective. As Utah’s director, my focus remains on ensuring our voice is part of that conversation and that we’re bringing back information that benefits UCLS members.