What is Benchmarking?
Check out the Benchmark FAQ for answers to many questions you may have.

Can I log an official report to the NGS?
Yes. NGS appreciates the efforts of geocachers and encourages them to submit reports on the condition of benchmarks. However, keep in mind that although we seek out benchmarks and report them for fun, the NGS database is in use by professionals for real world purposes.

• One close-up showing mark with stamping visible
• One showing the entire monument
• One showing any nearby witness features to aid in identifying the location, and any significant obstructions to satellite visibility.

Check out these Detailed Guidelines for posting pictures.

Do I report all my Benchmark finds with the NGS?
No. Benchmarks that were recovered and recorded on the NGS Datasheet less than 12 months ago should not be reported.

Keep in mind that reporting with the NGS is different than a 'Found it' log on the Geocaching website. Reporting with the NGS is an optional 'in addition to' step.

How do I find out when a Benchmark was last reported with the NGS?
Begin by pulling a Datasheet by PID (2 letter, 4 number identifier; LL0251, AB1234, etc.).

Once retrieved, scroll down the datasheet to the 'Station Recovery' section (near the bottom).

Benchmarks recovered by Geocachers and reported to the NGS are also tracked here.

Have more questions? Ask them in the Benchmark Forums.