GPS Hiking:  Stream Mapping:
This project is a federal and state multi-agency initiative to update
stream maps in the park to more accurate depiction and data quality.

Required: Own transportation, ability to hike long distances (up to 15
miles) on park trails and off trail - especially areas with extreme
elevation changes and dense vegetation. Ability to learn how to use GPS
unit (provided) to record points in stream channels. Requires day-long
training session, but volunteer hours are flexible. Volunteers would be
required to report to Twin Creeks Science Center or OVC for training and to
turn in data points regularly after hikes. Other duties include working
with the parallel project, historical and cultural stream mapping, which
involves matching archived stream records to the new digital GPS maps.

Description of Duties
   Stream Mapping Field Work (e.g. one or multi-day stream mapping field
      work)
   Stream Name Archive Project (e.g. data entry of historic stream data
      into digital map)
   Logistical Support of Stream Mapping Field Crew(s) (e.g. drop-off in one
      location pick-up in another to allow field crew more coverage of
      watersheds)

Please note that the Stream Mapping Field Work is considered one of the
most hazardous park research programs. Volunteers must be physically fit
and capable of making quick decisions regarding their safety in very
difficult terrain. Stream mappers are exposed to almost every major hazard
in the park (bears, waterfalls, rock slides, falling trees, etc...).
Helmets are mandatory and provided. Extensive safety briefings are
provided, and a one-day field "safety" test must be passed by volunteers
before being allowed on this project.

Stream mappers will see parts of the park that few humans have! You will
encounter rare plants, rarely seen historic settlements, waterfalls that
make Ramsey Cascades look like a bath tub, and some of the most beautiful
and scenic views in the park without the sound of Harely Davidsons roaring
by!

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Dana Soehn
Volunteer Coordinator
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
107 Park Headquarters Road
Gatlinburg, TN  37738
865-436-1265
865-436-1244 (fax)
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