A Scout’s Campfire

GPS and Scouts

October 25th, 2006 spryken

Back in January, I took part in a discussion on GPS units in Scouting on MeritBadge.net (The Scouting Discussion Network). Scouters were on both sides of the issue, either to allow or disallow there use.

It is really a moot point. BSA has added a requirement to at least discuss their use to the Camping Merit Badge (Eagle Required).

I prefer my scouts to be fully grounded in maps and compass work. I believe the GPS is a tool. Just that. No miracle fix. Knowing your position lat/long without a good ToPo does no one any good.

Seems to me it is more work to rely on a GPS alone. But that may just be how I use my GPS. I typically use it more as a trip log/record. I have found that not all trails are plotted correctly on maps. Surprise, surprise. Using free software, I can download my treks and update my maps. The research I do for hikes has certainly increased and the work after the hike is a little greater. But I have accurate records.

Also, if you use digital cameras, you can actually link your track logs with the pictures. All the picture files have a date/time stamp. Sync with the GPS and you have an accurate location for where the picture was taken. I haven’t really mastered this, but according to my uncle Rich Owings, author of GPS Mapping: Make Your Own MAPS, it can be done.

Entry Filed under: Boy Scouts, Gear