1. Subsurface Exploration Identify Type, Depth and Location of Underlying Soil Layers Determine Physical Characteristics of Soil Layers

2. Purpose of Subsurface Exploration Locate Water Table Evaluate Load Bearing Capacity Predict Lateral Earth Pressures Select Type & Depth of Foundation Estimate Settlements Determine Potential Problems Establish Construction Methods

3. Exploration Program Collect Existing Structure Information Collect Existing Subsoil Information Reconnaissance of Proposed Site Detailed Site Investigation

4. Existing Structure Information Type of Structure and Future Use Local Building Codes Column Loads Load-Bearing Wall Loads Span Length for Bridges Pier & Abutment Loads

5. Existing Subsurface Information Geologic Survey maps (USGS) County Soil Maps (USDA-SCS) DOT Soils Manuals Soil reports for nearby structures

6. Field Reconnaissance Visual inspection of site and surrounding areas Vegetation types Site accessibility Nature of surface drainage Open cuts in nearby areas Inspection of nearby structures

7. Detailed Site Investigation Test borings to collect disturbed and/or undisturbed samples for visual and laboratory investigation Number and depth of borings based on project type, depth of stress influence

8. Types of Borings Auger Borings Rotary Drilling Wash Borings

9. Auger Boring