Grade rod

A grade rod for measuring the depth of cut required to level a ground surface relative to a benchmark elevation location, said grade rod comprising:

• (a) an elongated reference member having a reference mark for defining a predetermined elevation at the benchmark elevation location;
• (b) an elongated extension member slidably mounted adjacent to said reference member, and having a base end thereof for engaging the ground surface;
• (c) said reference member being vertically movable relative to said extension member along a longitudinal axis thereof to permit vertical adjustment of the reference mark;
• (d) an elongated coil spring connected to said reference member and said extension member and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of said extension member for normally maintaining the reference mark a preset spaced distance from the base end of said extension member such that upon sliding vertical movement of said reference member relative to said extension member, said coil spring creates a biasing force urging the return of said reference mark to its original spaced distance from the base end of said extension member;
• and
• (e) scale means carried by one of said reference member and said extension member for indicating to the user the vertical adjustment required to locate the reference mark at said predetermined elevation at any point on the ground surface to thereby determine the depth of cut necessary for leveling the ground surface relative to the benchmark elevation location.