Our team can build maps from scratch or update existing ones throughout our investigative studies. Using advanced inspection methods, we create comprehensive maps that include service recommendations, status updates, and in-depth analyses, providing vital tools for managing your underground infrastructure.

In addition to traditional inspection technologies, CES utilizes Accurate Mapping Probe (AMP) to collect highly precise 3D positional data for underground pipelines. During CCTV inspections, 3D GeoSense technology can also capture the pipe’s route and elevation in real time, providing XYZ coordinate data that enhances GIS mapping and improves our accuracy when locating defects. Together, these advanced technologies help CES verify pipe alignment, identify sags or design issues, and allow our clients to implement more cost-effective maintenance and repair planning.

Geographic information systems (GIS) can be used for sewer and wastewater management in many ways, including mapping, modeling, and data management.

GPS data collection provides key information for use during manhole inspections. The data collected reveals general inventory information for manholes in the system. CES can take GPS readings at sub-meter, decimeter, and centimeter accuracy levels for manholes or other points identified while inspecting a sewer system. 

Customized GIS Solutions

At CES, we take a triage approach to storm and sewer system management, which is highly effective for creating a full inventory and allowing clients to use their maintenance and rehabilitation funds efficiently. 

This approach involves mapping out the system and conducting a quick assessment of conditions to determine which assets need cleaning to increase capacity and improve flow conditions. From these assessments, we generate a prioritized list of lines and structures that require cleaning, ranked by the capacity lost through debris levels and blockages. 

This helps clients allocate resources efficiently and focus on the areas that will have the greatest impact. Additionally, our assessments allow us to recommend and prioritize necessary repairs.

GIS has become the industry standard for managing sewer and stormwater systems. 

For municipalities or other clients new to GIS technology, we use internet-connected GIS applications to collect data and create online maps of their sewer and storm drain assets, allowing them to follow our progress in real time. Once completed, these maps can be maintained online for ongoing work or transferred to the client in a format that best suits their needs. 

For clients with existing GIS systems, we verify and update your data based on real-world conditions, delivering it per your specifications.

We provide customized maps that show each asset’s status, inspection findings, and service recommendations, including visualizations for:

• Sewer or storm drain asset locations
• CCTV inspection data and tracking
• Manhole inspection data
• Smoke test inspection data
• Areas prioritized for services based on infiltration and inflow (I/I) data
• Rehabilitation recommendations to prioritize efforts

Real-Time Project Tracking

During work, we utilize GIS to track activities, providing clients with access to monitor their projects in real-time, if desired. This ensures you are always informed about the status of your infrastructure system management.

Comprehensive Data Integration

All collected data is reviewed by our data management department for quality control. We attach images from inspections and cleanings directly to corresponding lines and manholes in the GIS, offering a visual and informational resource for our team and clients.

frequently asked questions

What is the difference between GIS and GPS?

The key difference between the two is that GPS tells you where you are while GIS helps you analyze what's there and make decisions based on spatial data. GPS and GIS go hand-in-hand when mapping a sewer system

Why is GIS mapping important?

• GIS mapping helps municipalities manage, analyze, and optimize their infrastructure.
• Provides detailed maps of sewer pipelines, manholes, pumps, and treatment plants.
• Helps identify areas prone to blockages, leaks, and overflows by tracking historical maintenance records, while enabling crews to quickly locate infrastructure and plan efficient routes for repairs.

What is AMP pipeline mapping?

AMP (Accurate Mapping Probe) is an autonomous pipeline mapping system that collects highly precise 3D positional data for underground pipes. It allows utilities to accurately locate pipeline assets and better understand pipe alignment and elevation changes.

What problems does AMP help identify in a sanitary sewer or stormdrain system pipe?

AMP can detect issues such as pipe sags, misaligned joints, bends, and horizontal or vertical design problems. This information helps CES identify areas that may contribute to flow restrictions or long-term structural concerns.

How is AMP data used in GIS systems?

CES integrates AMP data with GIS and CCTV inspection results to provide precise pipeline locations and defect positioning. This allows municipalities to verify as-built drawings, plan repairs more accurately, and prioritize rehabilitation projects with confidence.

How does 3D GeoSense improve GIS mapping for sewer systems?

3D GeoSense technology captures the precise route and elevation of pipes during CCTV inspections by recording XYZ coordinate data in real time. CES integrates this information into GIS mapping to improve the accuracy of pipe location data, verify alignment, and help utilities better understand their underground infrastructure for maintenance and planning.