The U.S. is replacing NAD83 with NATRF2022: what this means for Canada

In 2022, the U.S., as part of its reference system modernization, will replace its North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83) with a new North American Terrestrial Reference Frame (NATRF2022), creating 1.3 to 1.5 m horizontal coordinate differences at the Canada–U.S. border with respect to Canada’s NAD83(CSRS). Never before have such significant differences existed between our two countries’ reference frames. This paper reviews why the U.S. is making this change and then looks at Canada’s situation with respect to reference frames. There are compelling reasons for Canada to follow suit and move to NATRF2022 within a decade, but there are also major challenges. Whether or not Canada follows the same path, there is much work to be done to prepare Canada for the U.S.’ move to NATRF2022. This paper is intended as a first step to inform the Canadian geospatial community of the U.S.’ move to NATRF2022 and what it means for Canada.