CSU Mapathon for Mongolia

Volunteers from Colorado State University student body, faculty and the public will map buildings and roads in Ulaanbaatar Mongolia to support the delivery of clean water, healthcare and education.

The process of mapping in OpenStreetMap is easy, interesting, a good way to connect with other humanitarians, and a great way to help the most vulnerable populations on Earth. Participants will add roads and buildings into OpenStreetMap using satellite imagery procured by the US State Department from Westminster-based DigitalGlobe. No experience is necessary to participate in the mapathon.

Bring:

• Nothing is required. We will have computers available in the lab.

Directions and Parking:

• From South Shields St (major North-South Street in Fort Collins)

• Take West Pitkin St toward the east (only direction one can go on Pitkin from Shields)

• Turn left on Meridian Ave

• Turn Right on South Dr

• South Dr dead ends into parking lot. Parking is free after 4:00 pm!

• Other routes into campus may be blocked by construction.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/b/4/e/600_446911566.jpeg

FAQs:

Q: What software will we be using?

A: You can make edits using any OpenStreetMap editor. We will provide instructions for the iD Editor (http://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/ID), and there will probably be several mappers in attendance who using the the more advanced JOSM Editor (http://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/JOSM).

Q: What should I do to prepare?

A: No preparation is necessary, however, if you don't have an OpenStreetMap account you can create one ahead of time here (https://www.openstreetmap.org/user/new). Learning resources are available at learnosm.org (http://learnosm.org/en/beginner/introduction/). However, none of this is required ahead of time.

Q: What can I expect?

A: Mapathons are very laid back affairs. A "quick start" guide will be provided and experienced folks will be on hand to answer questions. An experienced humanitarian mapper will demonstrate the processes. Then it is just folks sitting around mapping from imagery and socializing.

Q: Does participation in a humanitarian mapathon count toward my GISP?

A: I corresponded with the GISCI and they indicated it does. I don't have other details as to what category it may be listed under. Be sure I have your contact info and make me aware that you need documentation for the GISP.

Q: I can't make it exactly at 5:00 pm, can I come late?

A: Absolutely! Arrive at any time and leave at any time (between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm). These are very laid back informal events.

Q: I am a long ways from Fort Collins (or otherwise cannot attend in person), can I participate remotely?

A: Yes, it won't be nearly as much fun as hanging out in person with 30+ other map geeks, but you can participate remotely. Instructions are here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1B8f79jYjxeTdquvptvO823FiGxOOfIf5hea-qWpDzyI/edit?usp=sharing