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msar-riders - Re: [MSAR] mapping software

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Subject: Mounted search and rescue

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  • From: "T'mi Fi" <tfinkle@erols.com>
  • To: Mounted search and rescue <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
  • Subject: Re: [MSAR] mapping software
  • Date: Mon, 25 Aug 2008 06:38:07 -0400

Our mounted team's former parent organization "Trail Riders of Today" has an ongoing (low cost) mapping project  using standard GPS software and google earth to produce trail maps that are layered over aerial photos (these type of maps are good for the average trail rider, but do not provide enough detail for most search personnel).  Trail Riders of Today lends out their GPS units to its members and provides them with basic instructions on GPS , then when the unit is returned GPS data is uploaded to a personal computer.  Several of the aerial trail maps can be viewed online at <http://www.trot-md.org/parks.php>   There is also a link to contact the Mapping Coordinator, who would be happy to speak with in depth about the details of project.

For MSAR applications, our Mounted Team uses MapTech software and uploads GPS data to record trail data on topo maps.  We like MapTech because the user can create a custom topo map that will center the search area to the field map.  Waypoints and other search information such as the ICP, staging area. PLS, Clue #5 and/or base camps can be added as needed. Locating trails in a search area provides both a hasty search, plus provides the search manager with a better operational picture of the search area.

Most search managers in our 5 State region use UTM coordinates, so make sure that your GPS and related software are set properly.  It should be noted that some County governments in urban areas use Lat/Long coordinates to support their GIS data systems, so a (Lat/Long to UTM) conversion program would be a good thing to have.  

    
Ride Safe,

T'mi
TROTSAR Mounted Team
www.trotsar.org


 

Lois Guyon wrote:

 

I have used Expert GPS to put waypoints and tracks on aerial photos.  Are there better software packages you are using that are reasonable in price? 

 

 

Lois


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