April 18-19 GPS Navigation Techniques class and field trip

Learn how to use your Global Positioning System (GPS) device with David Pylman, navigation specialist, in the Mojave Desert of Joshua Tree National Park. You MUST register and pay fee at the Desert Institute website to attend - http://www.joshuatree.org/desert-institute/field-classes/gps-navigation-techniques-2/

You may also RSVP here (not required) so we can keep track of who is coming from our own Meetup group.

GPS units grow in popularity each year as more and more people get access to this high powered route-finding tool. But GPS technology can be challenging for beginners as well as experiences users! David will explain how to best utilize GPS in wilderness navigation during this two-day field class.

•Saturday will be class room review of Global Mapping Systems, Topographic Maps, Compass essentials, with several field exercises. You will also begin learning how to setup your GPS device for wilderness travel. Bring your bag lunch and refreshments.

•Sunday you will continue to learn the finer points of your GPS device, and begin putting into practice the Goto and WhereTo features; the Tracking and Backtrack features; and the route building and finding features with practical field exercises. Bring your bag lunch and refreshments

Required Class MaterialsSighting/Orienteering Compass with adjustable declination and sighting mirror, such as the following models: Brunton Type 15K & R SherpaK & R AlpinSilva Ranger 515 CLSuunto MC2DSuunto MC2GGPS device: must be GARMIN brand, and one of the following models: eTrex VistaeTrex LegendeTrex 10, 20, or 30GPSMap MapseriesOregonMontana two extra sets of batteries

Don’t miss this interactive class and the knowledge to add GPS technology to your navigation toolbox! Participants need to provide their own GPS devices.