Course Overview
Whether you are a forest landowner, land trust volunteer, or professional land manager, understanding how to navigate confidently through the woods, and make and interpret maps are essential skills. This one-day course in Land Navigation and Mapping is designed to provide hands-on instruction in both traditional and digital methods of orienteering in the field.
The day will begin with analogue navigation techniques, focusing on how to read topographic maps, use a compass to take and follow bearings, estimate distances traveled and to a goal, and identify your location on the landscape without the aid of electronics. These are fundamental skills for moving through unfamiliar forest terrain safely and effectively.
In the afternoon, we’ll transition to digital tools, exploring town hall and other online mapping resources, and learn to navigate and mark waypoints using the Avenza Maps app. Participants will gain practical knowledge applicable to boundary marking and land management.
Course Goals & Objectives
Master analogue navigation techniques: Learn to use a compass and topographic map to confidently travel off-trail and determine your location in the landscape.
Utilize free and accessible digital tools: Explore online mapping resources and learn to navigate and mark waypoints using the Avenza Maps app.
Apply navigation skills to land stewardship: Gain confidence applying these skills so you can find property boundaries, site potential trail routes, or plan management activities.
Instructors
Star Childs, Founding Trustee, Great Mountain Forest & Owner, Environmental & Ecological Consulting Services (EECOS)
David Beers, State Service Forester for Private and Municipal Lands, CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Division of Forestry
Physical Requirements
This course will be split between class time and field time. Participants must be able to walk over muddy and uneven terrain, off trail, and to stay on their feet for several hours. They should also be prepared for inclement weather.
Meals
Participants can bring their own lunch, but will also be given the option of ordering lunch from the Berkshire Country Store in Norfolk. Coffee, tea, and water will be provided.
Location
This course will be held at the historic Yale Camp in the heart of Great Mountain Forest. The camp is accessed via the forest’s West Gate to Chattleton Road, off Canaan Mountain Road, in Falls Village, CT (also known as Canaan). Participants will be sent directions.
