Map and Compass Workshop 2016 (by Susan Labiste)

Map and Compass Workshop, April 3, 2016

With our attention on the ground, and the excitement of treasure hidden in the duff, it is easy for us mycophiles to become direction-disoriented (i.e.lost).  Then too, injury or weather can make return travel impossible. It has happened to a number of us and poses a threat to our safety.  This map and compass workshop is designed to help you use a map and compass to find your way. It is suitable for first-timers and for those looking to refresh their skills for the season.

This class will be limited to FFSC members at first. If it doesn't fill, the enrollment will be extended to non-members.  Enrollment is limited to 12.

This year, there will be a $20 fee.  That fee includes a liquid-filled compass with a moveable faceplate and lanyard. If you have a compass of your own, please do bring it.  I will refund $15 of your fee at the time of the class if your compass is suitable for the class (see photo). 

Your instructor, Susan Labiste: 

I taught this class for East Bay Regional Parks for several years and for FFSC last year. I’m an outdoor enthusiast who has done quite a bit of off-trail backpacking in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Seeing you develop your skills really makes my day.

Curriculum:

* Parts of the compass

* Longitude, Latitude

* Magnetic and true north

* Declination

* Topographic maps

Plan on learning by doing. We will be using map, compass, and topographic three-dimensional sculptures as we hike and pinpoint our progress on the map.

This workshop lasts 4.5 hours (with a 30 minute lunch break).  It is not appropriate for little kids or pets.  Participants should be 15 or older and anyone under 18 requires a parent in attendance that agrees to be responsible for supervising their offspring.  I will be far too busy instructing to keep anyone, adult or child, from making an error in judgment.  You will be walking in an area with poison oak, steep ledges, and encounters with snakes are possible.  Be responsible.  Consider your fitness level.  Although our progress will be slow with many stops, the trail incline is steep at times, narrow at times or near cliffs and ledges.  The hike will be in excess of a mile, the total length being a question of time available.

What to bring:

It will be up to you to bring several items to class; Bring a liter of water and your lunch in a day pack.  Please bring a pencil for use with your map. Wear comfortable hiking shoes/boots and weather-appropriate layered clothing. This is an outdoor hiking class.  A hat and sunglasses are suggested.  Don’t forget reading glasses if you need them.

To Register:

I will need name and contact information for anyone enrolling in the class.  I will need to let you know our class site address.  I will also need to reach you in the event the class is cancelled.  I will look forward to seeing you on April third. 

• Open to FFSC members only from now until March 20th, 2016 
• Open to broader group on March 21st until March 31, 2016.