Fe University presents: Orienteering- Map and Compass Skills
Probably the last time you needed directions you used an online map quest. For many, maps are a thing of the past, but planning a route of travel and finding a destination using a map and compass is still a valuable skill. Orienteering is the sport of navigation, often through unfamiliar terrain, using a map and compass. It’s easy to learn and a fun way for family and friends to exercise body and mind together in the outdoors.
Fe University is offering a class on Orienteering-Map and Compass Skills on Tuesdays August 13th and 20th from 1-3 PM and Thursday August 22nd from 1-4 PM. The first two classes will be in the Friends’ Room at the Mercer Public Library, 2648 W Margaret Street, Mercer. The third class will be in the field, location tbd.
Participants will explore compass types, discover why a compass works, and learn how to use a compass to find a location. They will be introduced to a map’s features and discover how to select routes of travel, plot courses on the map with a compass, and determine locations using a map and compass. In the final class students will work in small groups utilizing a map and compass to locate clues to navigate to a group rendezvous point. Participants will be off trail and in the woods for this session. GPS and useful phone apps will also be discussed. By the end of the course, participants will be able to plan a route of travel to a location utilizing a map and compass, follow a route to a destination using a compass, predict current location using terrain features and compass, determine map coordinates, and discuss pros and cons of utilizing map/compass versus GP.
No previous experience with a map and compass is necessary. Participants must be comfortable going off trail and able to walk 1 to 2 miles on variable terrain. The fee for the course is $35 with a $5 discount for those registering and paying by July 31st. Class size is limited. Register early. Equipment Required: A baseplate compass like the Suunto A-30 Compass, Silva Compass Expedition 4, Suunto MC-2G or similar. Access to the internet recommended for suggested readings and assignments. An additional fee may be charged for those requesting printing of online materials.
Registration forms can be download from Fe University’s website www.feuniversity.org or picked up at the Mercer Library or the UW Extension office in the Hurley courthouse. Completed forms may be mailed to Fe University, PO Box 63, Hurley, Wi 54534 or dropped off at the Mercer Library or Hurley Courthouse. Scholarships available; see registration form for additional information. Visit www.feuniversity .org for class details and registration information, or call 715-561-3098 or 715-476-2881.