Improvements

Mapping

  • After the second year of mapping, I realized that my previous mapping needed to be more detailed, and I gradually became more consistent in my data collection. Fortunately I was able to revisit my field area many times to recheck my accuracy.
  • The hardcopy base map was a different size over the three year period, and this affected the registering of the successive years’ data. However, when I compiled the digital maps, I was able to use a common scale, and register the data successfully.
GPS
  • The GPS unit that I have was only accurate to a radius of 6m. This proved the GPS data ineffective for the level of precision that I needed for this project.
  • In the future I would use appropriate software to compile the digital GPS information, and coordinate it directly with digital base maps.
Recording Observations
  • I do not have a logbook for my entire thirteen years of stewardship in this park. However my hardcopy maps and annotations and GPS data are recorded.
  • Volunteers of all ages, including students, should be encouraged to record details of their stewardship and observations in natural areas parks, to provide a valuable record for future park management. Perhaps this could be done through a community website.