Mapping and Geocaching

[Sarah_M]

If you are interested in getting better maps for geocaching, make sure to check out (as well as contribute to) OpenStreetMap. OpenStreetMap is an open source project to collaboratively map the entire world. It can be considered a sort of wikipedia for maps.  There are over 70,000 participants in OpenStreetMap worldwide, and we are working to increase participation here in the US.

 

Participants collect information to put on the map (cycle / hiking trails, natural features, historic plaques, museums, other points of interest). They then upload the information to our online map. This information can be enhanced and corrected by the community, and the data can be utilized in many unique ways.

 

Geocachers have been particularly excited about this project because it provides a great online map that is constantly being updated and improved. The map can be printed for hand held use or downloaded to a mobile GPS, cell phone or PDA, all free of charge. This can be very useful during your Geocaching searches and events.

 

OpenStreetMap hosting mapping party event almost every weekend around the country, so please check out our site: wiki.openstreetmap.org, to find one near you.

 

Feel free to contact me as well.

 

Sarah@cloudmade.com