Field Navigation Map

Introduction: The purpose of this exercise was to create a Field Navigation Map that will be used next week when we take actual measurements at the location. We will then use the map to plot points given to us by Dr. Hupy that we will have to manually polot on the map. To prepare for the field work we needed both a useable map, that would be easy to read, as well as a way to measure distance. The following outlines what was done to prepare for our field work.

Method: The first step in our creation of a Field Navigation Map was not a reference map, but actually a crude method of measurement. To come up with this method each student walked 100 meters 4 times and recorded their pace count. Then, from each group, the person with the most consistent pace count won the job of measuring the distances. My pace counts came up 69x3 and 68.
We then went inside to start making a reference map that we could bring out into the field with us.


The first thing was to add the aerial map to ArcMAP. By adding this basemap first we are able to add any additional layers and they will 'project on the fly' to the appropriate projection. The area of interest(AOI) is the Priory in Eau Claire, WI.

Here is the aerial picture with the boundaries and grid already added to the area of interest(AOI).

 

Zoomed in view of the AOI with boundaries added

After adding the basemap and boundaries the next step was to make two maps. One map was to be just a reference map that you could refer to when out in the field. Purpose of the reference map is mostly to be able to get a bearing of your location by landmarks, tree lines, etc. Along with general landmarks we also wanted some general topology and a grid system for further reference.

AOI with 5 foot contour lines

Grid overlay

With the basics of a basemap, boundaries, contour and grid overlay I was able to make a basic reference map and a basic topological map.

The idea behind a basic topologcial map is just to give a general idea of topology as well as being able to use it for marking points and any notes you may have. Our group actually decided to use another map with no color background to further simplify it.

Above is a basic map with the 2 foot contour. It is clearly more dramatic looking when it comes to the peaks and valleys that is at the AOI.

Discussion: This was just the first part before actually going out into the field and doing some navigation and work. As in all other exercises in this class, the repeated theme is to be prepared before going out to do your field work. This exercise was no exception. It was important to have a workable base map with usable data on it like the grid and contour as well as having a somewhat accurate way to measure distance.

Conclusion: I think this was a good start prior to doing the actual field work. It also gave me some more experience with dealing with map projections.