CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

What was the NGS previously known as?

1. United States Coast and Geodetic Survey

2. National Geographic Survey

3. Geodetic National Service

4. Coastal Land Survey Agency

The correct answer is: United States Coast and Geodetic Survey

The National Geodetic Survey (NGS) was previously known as the United States Coast and Geodetic Survey (USCGS). This agency was established to provide a systematic approach to surveying and charting the coastal areas of the United States and later expanded its role to include geodetic surveying, which is the science of measuring and understanding the Earth's geometric shape, orientation in space, and gravity field. The historical significance of the USCGS lies in its foundational role in developing a comprehensive national survey system that supports various mapping and navigational needs. This legacy continues today through the NGS's responsibilities for maintaining the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS) and producing geodetic data and services that are essential for various applications, including engineering, construction, and land use planning. The other choices, while they might suggest similar sounding organizations or functions, do not represent the historical name of the NGS. The National Geographic Survey does not exist in relation to government surveying organizations and focuses more on educational and advocacy work related to geography. Geodetic National Service and Coastal Land Survey Agency are also not recognized historical names and do not match any agency that transitioned into the NGS. Thus, the choice of the United States Coast and Geodetic Survey