Natural Resources Canada, the International Boundary Commission, is responsible for the maintenance of an effective boundary line between Canada and the United States. One part of the work is to keep a 6.1 metres (20 feet) wide “vista” clear of trees and brush between the two countries.
Since the purpose of the vista is to demarcate the boundary between the countries, it is essential that it be accurately followed between boundary monuments and that each segment has the appearance of a straight line of even skyline width.