Anyone venturing into the woods can benefit from learning to navigate comfortably with a map and compass. On Saturday, April 28, Damariscotta River Association will offer a workshop on basic map and compass navigation and skills for “staying found,” as opposed to getting lost. Participants will learn how to read a USCGS topographical map and how to use a handheld compass. In addition, the class will cover declination, and how to obtain a bearing from the map and convert it to magnetic from true north.
This hands-on, skills-based course will include many outdoor field exercises. DRA will provide maps and compasses. Participants should bring a lunch and come prepared to be outside for about an hour at a time. The workshop will be instructed by Seth Walton, of Maine Sport Outfitters, and DRA Education Director Sarah Gladu. Both are registered Maine Guides.
As space is limited, preregistration by Friday afternoon, April 27, is required. Children age 9 or older are welcome if accompanied by an adult. The cost of the workshop is $25, or $20 for DRA members.
A nonprofit, membership-supported, and nationally accredited land trust and conservation organization, Damariscotta River Association is dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of the Damariscotta region, centered on the Damariscotta River.
DRA has active programs in the areas of land conservation, stewardship, community education, water quality monitoring, marine conservation, and cultural preservation.
Visitors are welcome at the Great Salt Bay Heritage Center in Damariscotta as well as at the many other DRA properties throughout the region. Learn more at damariscottariver.org.