Fresno, CA & Frederick, MD – May 22nd, 2026 — The Public Land Survey System Foundation (PLSSF) has announced the recipients of its 2026 surveying scholarships, continuing its mission to support the next generation of professional land surveyors through education and industry engagement.
This year, the Foundation awarded scholarships to outstanding students enrolled in accredited land surveying programs who have demonstrated academic achievement, dedication to the profession, and a commitment to advancing the understanding and application of the Public Land Survey System (PLSS). The 2026 scholarship recipients are:
- Emily Petersen — California State University, Fresno
Recipient of a $2,500 Four-Year Scholarship
Application ID #20 - Braden Denzine — Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Recipient of a $1,500 Two-Year Scholarship
Application ID #55
According to the Foundation, this year’s selection process was highly competitive, with applications received from students across the United States pursuing careers in land surveying and geomatics.
“Congratulations to the recipients of the Public Lands Survey System Foundation (PLSSF) awards,” said Gwen Gee, PLS, CFedS, and Panel Chair of the PLSS Foundation. “Our Board spent several days reviewing sixty-three applications from across the country. We would like to thank everyone who applied and wish all applicants continued success in their land surveying endeavors.”
The PLSS Foundation is a nonprofit organization established to support the surveying profession through education, scholarships, and research related to the Public Land Survey System. The Foundation was created through a collaborative effort between the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS).
To qualify for PLSSF scholarships, applicants must be members of the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), enrolled full-time in an ABET-accredited two- or four-year land surveying program and participating in coursework that includes the Public Land Survey System as part of the curriculum.
As demand continues to grow for qualified surveying professionals nationwide, the Foundation’s scholarship program remains an important investment in the future of the profession. By supporting students pursuing careers in surveying and geospatial sciences, PLSSF aims to help strengthen technical expertise, preserve professional standards, and encourage continued stewardship of the nation’s land records infrastructure. For more information, visit www.plssfoundation.org.
