GPS workshop is Aug. 9 in Cd'A

COEUR d'ALENE - A Global Positioning System or "GPS" receiver has become as common to work and play in the forest as a compass. Yet many who own a GPS unit feel they are only using a small portion of its capabilities.

On Aug. 9 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., a University of Idaho Extension program titled "Using Your GPS" will introduce participants to the science underlyning GPS and the wide range of tasks that can be accomplished with GPS and their accompanying technologies, such as mapping programs, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Internet data sources.

Topics to be discussed indoors include:

* "Maps and Coordinate Systems"

* "How do Global Positioning Systems Work?"

* "Entering Waypoints to a GPS"; "Forestry Applications for GPS"

* "Shopping for a GPS Receiver"; and

* "The Future of GPS and Allied Technologies."

In the last half of the program, participants will practice field waypoints, making trails and estimating acreages.

The program will be at the University of Idaho Extension Office, 1808 N. Third St., Coeur d'Alene.

Those wishing to participate should pre-register by Friday, Aug. 1, at the University of Idaho Extension office. A $20 registration fee covers course materials and refreshments.

The program is eligible for Society of American Foresters credits and Idaho Pro-Logger credits.

For registration questions, call 446-1680. For program questions, contact the Chris Schnepf at 446-1460.

The program is co-sponsored by University of Idaho Extension, the Idaho Department of Lands, and the USDA Forest Service. Registration for can also be downloaded at www.uidaho.edu/extension/forestry.