Lab 6: Navigation Using a Field Map

Introduction:

Preparation prior to data collection is a key component to conducting work in the field. It allows for one to get right to work upon arrival to the destination, and also allows for the solution of anticipated issues or problems in the field. One can plan for a long time, but there comes a time when all that work can be used to assist in actual activities. This lab was one of those times. The field navigation maps that were created in Lab 5 were put to the test at the Priory in Eau Claire, a piece of property acquired by UWEC that is being used as the daycare center that was formerly located in the old education building on campus. A tour of the location can be seen by viewing the video on the right. In addition to the physical building on site, which used to be a monastery, an extensive nature area exists, which served as the location to be test the accuracy of our maps.

Figure 1: Printed version of the map created in Lab 5



Methodology:

In order to successfully navigate the wilderness of the area surrounding the Priory, the information collected in Lab 5 was required. The map created was needed, seen in printed form in Figure 1, as well as the step count for 100 meters. This would be used to navigate from point to point. Each group was assigned six points, with a copy of our group's show in Figure 1. Using principally the UTM X and UTM Y numbers, we then were able to use the UTM grid on the field map to locate and plot the points.
Once the points were plotted, distance and bearing values were required in order to get from point to point. Distance was calculated by using a straight-edge and connecting the space between the points. Using the scale on the map, each line was assigned a number of the space from point to point. Bearing values were calculated by using a compass similar to the one in Figure 3. The direction of travel line in the middle of the compass was aligned with each of the lines used in the distance calculation, the orienting arrow was lined up with the magnetic arrow, and a direction was then observed, and recorded.

Figure 2: The coordinates of the six points to be found.

Figure 3: A compass that was similar to the one used to calculate bearing values

The values of both the distance and the bearing fields can be seen in the table in Figure 4. The distance values were used in conjunction with the step count to approximate just how many steps were required in order to get from point to point. For example, my step count was 62 for 100 meters. Therefore, it would take approximately 266 steps to get from Points 1 to 6. The bearing numbers would be used in combination with the compass to orient traveling in the proper direction.

Figure 4: Calculated values for bearing and distance

Now that the preparation was complete, it was now time to go out and see how effective our navigation skills were. To do this, three roles needed to be filled. One person would need to serve as a position marker, by standing in a specific direction at the specified bearing. Another person, the pacer, would need to move from where they were standing to the first person, making sure to walk in a straight line. And finally, the last person would need to guide the pacer, ensuring that they walked in the same direction as the required bearing. In Figure 5, an image of me pacing the distance to the orienting point, the large tree in front of me, can be seen. Picking an orientation point was absolutely essential, as it was impossible to see from the start to the end point, and if it was, the entire activity would be fruitless, as finding the point with the map would be far too simple if it was clearly visible from the starting position.

Figure 5: Keeping track of steps from start to orientation point

Once successful navigation of the distance from point to point was complete, a suspended orange flag would mark the position of a punch card, each group being required to punch all of the points in order to successfully complete the activity. Figure 6 shows the card being punched after our group had made it from the starting position to the first point.

Discussion: 

Figure 6: Punching the card confirming our finding the point

This activity was a useful and educational experience. Relying only on the map that we had created, and directions calculated ourselves was a very empowering experience. We alone held the key to our success or failure. By far, the most challenging part of the activity was keeping track of the steps. As the pacer, it was difficult remaining in a straight line the entire, especially while trying to traverse the terrain. Navigation of the landscape would have been challenging enough by itself, but when one needs to walk in a straight line and take even-stepped paces through the snow is no simple task. Additionally, some obstacles could not simply be walked over or through. Sometimes, to keep accurate count, walking around the object and subtracting the lateral steps was necessary, adding one more hassle to the job of a pacer. But despite these challenges, we were still able to accurately traverse the landscape and find the points that we needed to find, and not the ones that part of other groups' courses.

Conclusion:

Navigating the landscape surrounding the Priory proved to be a challenging assignment, but as a group, we were able to accomplish it. Each member played an absolutely critical role in successful navigation, and effective communication between the group was required in order to move in the correct direction. As mentioned before, the air of accountability present here was almost refreshing. It was up to us to design a map that could be used to successfully navigate the assigned course, and if our map was ineffective, it was ultimately our faults if we were not able to find the right point. It was also nice change of pace to be reduced to using a map and compass for navigation. In this age of technology, where our phones are able to take us from Point A to Point B, not relying on any fancy gadgets to move around is a lost art, one that is not given enough credit. Paper maps don't lose cell coverage, and compasses don't run out of power. This method of navigation is one of the most accurate, and having to learn and use it effectively was an incredibly worthwhile experience.