The two-year project, using laser range finders and global positioning systems, is being billed as the most extensive and thorough survey of the Great Wall to ever be conducted.
"Setting up a full and accurate document for the Great Wall is extremely important as it is the fundamental step towards preserving it," said Luo Zhewen, a heritage expert.
Apart from environmental erosion, mass tourism and vandalism have also taken a heavy toll on the Great Wall, with many people carving their names and other graffiti on its bricks. Local farmers also often nail iron ladders onto the ancient structure, permitting tourists access to a "wild" wall section for a fee.
The field survey is part of a 10-year Great Wall Protection Project launched last month, according to Chai Xiaoming, vice director of the Heritage Protection Department of the State Administration of Cultural Heritage.
It will help to establish more preservation areas and buffer zones so that construction near the Great Wall is limited.
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Producer:Duan
Lei 
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