What is meant by 'bank-measure' in earthwork calculations?

The term 'bank-measure' refers to the volume of earth material in its natural state, before any excavation, compaction, or disturbance. This is a critical concept in earthwork calculations because it provides the baseline measurement of the material as it exists in the ground. Understanding bank-measure is essential for surveying and engineering projects because it helps in determining how much material is available for use and what the potential yield of an excavation will be.

For practical applications, knowing the bank-measure allows engineers and contractors to calculate the volumes of soil that can be removed or utilized, estimate project costs, and plan logistics for transportation and site management. Since this measurement is taken before any processing, it reflects the state of the earth as it is found, which is why it is crucial for accurate project planning.

In contrast, the other options refer to other states of the material which do not represent the natural state of the soil. Loose soil, for instance, could imply a different volume after excavation, while compacted volume pertains to the density and arrangement of the soil after it has been processed. Estimated excavation volume can vary significantly based on the method used for excavation and handling. Therefore, none of these terms reflect the original, unaltered state of the material,