In the UK, badgers are a protected species under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. This act makes it illegal to take, injure, kill or be cruel to badgers as well as cause any disturbance to badgers while they are in their setts. This can present a big issue to clients who are hoping to commence an archaeological excavation or have plans to develop an area of land.
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It is important to consider the potential impact on badgers before any work is undertaken on a site. Especially if the site is greenfield, where it is likely that badger setts will be present.
Above : Entrance to a badger setts discovered by SUMO GeoSurveys.
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Badger Setts are not always evident by just spotting entrance holes. They are often a vast network of tunnels and chambers forming a complex underground territory extending from anything between 20 – 100 metres and may have one or several entrance points!
Mapping the entrances of the badger sett can give you a basic understanding of the area taken. But, to further understand the badger sett you will need a geophysical survey. This will give you information about the central nest, tunnel layout and the depth of the tunnels.
The tunnels are often large, so they show similar characteristics to voids. This means that the same equipment used for the location of voids can be adapted for badger sett surveys. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is ideal for mapping the location and extent of setts.
Above : Example Radargram (section view) of GPR showing voids relating to Badger Setts.
Above Left : Example Timeslice (plan view) of the site showing the tunnel layout of the sett. There are three entrances located on the right-hand side of this image. Above Right : Example GPR interpretation showing the extent of badger sett on site.
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How accurate is SUMO's underground utility survey and what types of utilities can it locate?Using cutting-edge technologies like electro-magnetics, signal induced threading, and Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), our underground utility surveys accurately detect a wide array of buried utilities including metal and plastic pipes, drainage systems, electricity cables, telecoms, and fiber optic cables. The methodology ensures high accuracy without the need for invasive trial holes.
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What is the turnaround time for obtaining results with SUMO's Underground Utility Detection service?SUMO’s service is built for rapid response. Contractors can receive immediate results onsite. Our equipment provides real-time information, and once we leave the site, the detected utilities are visibly marked on the ground surface for quick reference.
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Does SUMO provide detailed mapping of the detected utilities for permanent records or construction purposes?Absolutely, SUMO not only marks the detected utilities on-site but also offers high-quality, color-coded survey drawings. These drawings can include topographic features and a comprehensive record of the utility detection survey, ensuring it meets the client’s needs for future reference or pre-construction design works.
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Topographical and Geophysical surveyIn addition to mapping out utilities, our experience team can accurately survey the land, creating topographical drawings for use. With our state-of-the-art aerial technology, nothing is missed.
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What additional information can be included in the underground utility mapping service provided by SUMO?In addition to topographic features, SUMO’s mapping service can include fixed surface utility features such as inspection chambers, valve boxes, and telegraph poles. It can also incorporate key topographic details like building lines, fence lines, kerb lines, street furniture, street names, building names, and house numbers, facilitating easy site location.
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Does the utility mapping service by SUMO include standard referencing and compatibility with existing survey data?Yes, SUMO ensures the utility mapping references the ordnance survey grid and level datum as standard. Additionally, the drawings can be supplied to a specified grid and level datum and can overlay an existing topographical survey, making it a versatile and adaptable service for various project needs.
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What sets SUMO Services apart from other survey providers?SUMO stands out due to our impeccable level of service with nationwide coverage, state-of-the-art equipment, and our commitment to delivering top-quality, detailed colour-coded survey drawings in both hard and electronic formats.
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How do I request a survey quotation from SUMO Services?Requesting a quotation is easy. Just click on the "Request a Survey Quotation" button on this page, and our team will get in touch with you promptly.
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Can I book a SUMO Survey online?Yes, you can! Simply click on the "Book a SUMO Survey" button on this page, and you can schedule your survey with us at your convenience.
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What type of survey is suitable for my project or site?Our experienced team will work with you to determine the most appropriate survey for your specific needs. Contact us, and we'll assist you in making the right choice.
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Can I obtain both digital and hard copies of survey drawings?Absolutely. We offer the convenience of electronic copies for digital use and hard copies for your records. Just let us know your preference.
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Do you provide custom survey solutions for unique projects?Yes, we understand that every project is unique. Our team is highly adaptable and can tailor our surveying services to meet your specific requirements.
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How do I get in touch with SUMO Services for further questions?For any additional questions or inquiries, feel free to contact us through the contact form, and our dedicated team will assist you promptly.
Geophysical Engineering Surveys
Air Raid Shelters
Cellars & Basements
Post Tension Cables
Underground Storage Tanks
Air Voids
Chimney Flues
Rebar
Water Engineering
Badger Setts
Earthing Installations
Sinkholes
Burials
Geological Application
Soil Thermal Resistivity Testing
Buried Foundations
Landfills
Structural Investigations
Buried Manholes
Mineshafts
