In subsurface utility engineering (SUE), few moments generate more concern than the discovery of an unknown utility. Whether identified during Quality Level B (QL-B) designation or exposed during Quality Level A (QL-A) test hole operations, undocumented utilities are often viewed as a gap in prior information or a breakdown in the process. In reality, these discoveries represent one of the most valuable outcomes SUE can provide. From a SUE perspective, the goal is not simply to confirm what is a

Summary Its rare that an industry study attracts national attention of regulators, legislators, asset owners/operators, engineers, contractors, and others, and perhaps more rare that it opens the door to industry transformation. The 811 Emergency study, published by the Infrastructure Protection Coalition (IPC – www.ipcweb.org) does just that. At least half of the $61 billion in national waste made visible by the study can be recovered to benefit the public with reduced damages to

As we reach the midpoint of 2026, I am pleased to report that the Subsurface Utility Engineering Association (SUEA) continues to make significant progress in advancing our mission and strengthening our position as the leading voice for the SUE profession. Year-to-date, we have achieved meaningful accomplishments through our leadership of the FHWA Everyday Counts (EDC) SUE initiative, renewed engagement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on a SUE Best Practices Manual, continued growth