How to create high quality orienteering base maps
Preface
This well presented and well illustrated tutorial was prepared by Barry Hanlon of WHO (Western & Hills Orienteers) with contributions from Ian Miller and Janet Morris.
The introduction sets the scene for current mapping. Note that references to OCAD 2018 also apply to OCAD 2019 which under the continued update model is the same product. In the 2020 subscription period, the product will drop the year suffix.
Gathering the data
Here Barry covers data sources and gathering. Some of these are NSW specific but other state equivalents should be readily identifiable by your club’s seasoned mappers. Lidar input is covered as is Kartapullautin.
Creating a base map in OCAD 2018+
Here we have the four key steps. These are followed by a note re use of Kartapullautin to better determine runnability.
Alternative mapping tools
This section covers Open Orienteering Mapper (OOM), OL Laser, LAS Tools and some useful links. Barry does say that if you use current OCAD, you wont need this information. It is great that he has catered for these other orienteering mappers.
Creating base maps with earlier OCAD
Russell Rigby’s Setting up an OCAD base map is just the ticket for mappers who have access to older versions.
More on LiDAR and orienteering mapping
Russel Rigby’s LiDAR for base Maps is a useful complement to Barry’s tutorial and to OCAD’s treatment of the topic.
Off course
Finallyyyyy, the entry station sign for the new Eureka Orienteers’ Daylesford VIC permanent orienteering course (POC) was delivered and now erected. ACT orienteers will recognise the style.
This POC is unusual downunder in that users have the choice of participating by way of MOBO mobile app or traditional paper map. MOBO utilises QR codes on posts and was selected because it also provides the opportunity for another QR code on the post to showcase nearby natural or historic mining features in the reserve.
Wesley College, Clunes Campus used the POC 3 times recently (traditional maps) and were delighted with the outcomes for their students. Next year they are looking at a more challenging course for selected students and this will likely be provided via MapRun which doesn’t require fixtures at control sites.