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Stashing a Geocache Stashing a Geocache From "Family Outdoors" episode FAO-205

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Some geo-caches are hidden in locations that can be easily accessed by novices, provided that the correct GPS coordinates are followed successfully. Other locations are not quite so accessible. Figure A Figure B Figure C Figure D Which datum your GPS uses -- the method of incorporating the curvature of the earth when calculating coordinates -- is a critical piece of information for geo-caching. Be certain to include your datum info when posting or giving out coordinates. Otherwise, searchers may be led to an incorrect location. Figure D Figure A

A number of creative variations on the concept of geocaching have been tried. In some, the contents of a geocache are simply a set of coordinates to another geocache. That type of adventure can be extended indefinitely. In others, geocaches have been hidden on the tops of mountains -- accessible only by experienced rock climbers. They've even been placed underwater, where only scuba divers can reach them.

Without going to those extremes, you can get creative when you plan where to hide a cache. You might try incorporating a geocache search on a horseback trail ride (figure A) or hiding a cache on an island, making the search necessitate a canoe trip (figure B).

You can make geocaching a part of almost any outdoor activity that your family and friends enjoy. And the search doesn't necessarily have to take place in some remote wilderness location. It could even be done around your town, with the cache placed near some identifiable landmark, for instance.

Stashing the Goods

Following are some suggestions that novices should keep in mind when initiating a geocaching adventure by hiding a cache of their own:

• Make certain it's legal to be on the land where you plan to hide your cache. Avoid private property or off-limits areas of public property. You don't want to make trespassers of yourself or other participants.

• Make certain that the location is safe and free from dangerous hazards.

• Consider the routes searchers are likely to take in getting to the location. Make certain they won't need to cross any dangerous or illegal areas.

• If you have any concerns, point them out in the information you provide when you publicize the site, such as on a Web site.

• Be certain to include a letter of explanation about geocaching in the contents of your cache (figure C). This will help ensure that the contents are not removed or disturbed if someone should find it inadvertently.

• Use a sealable, watertight container to house the contents of your cache (figure D).

• Consider the impact on the environment. Don't place a cache in a location that might cause searchers to damage or destroy natural features in order to access it.

• When you have decided upon a location, enter a waypoint on your own GPS. If you have trouble getting a reading, the area you've selected may have poor satellite reception. If that's the case, consider selecting another location that GPS users will be able to navigate to.

• Once you've hidden the cache, post the location and any notes you've made, on an Internet site that's used by other geocache enthusiasts.

• Make certain that you know, and post, which datum your GPS uses when designating coordinates. Otherwise, searchers may be led to an incorrect location.

Here are some suggested items to place in a geocache:

• A log book is the most important item in the geocache (figure E). It allows each person or group of people who locates the cache to record the date on which they found it, their names, e-mail addresses (if desired) and any comments for those who may find it in the future. This keeps a running history of the geocache for all successful participants to read.

• A letter of explanation of what geocaching is all about. The letter should explain the concept and rules of geocaching and requests that those who find it not remove or disturb it.

• Your e-mail address will allow geocachers who successfully find your cache to contact you directly and offer feedback or comments. If you're not comfortable giving out your home e-mail address, consider getting a secondary free-email account from one of the national Internet services.

• A one-use camera is potentially a good way to get pictures of people who find your cache.

• Other items are up to you. You may want to leave some inexpensive gifts, or toys for kids, as minor rewards for the diligence of the individuals who sought out your cache.

RESOURCES :
GPS World home page
Web site: www.gpsworld.com

Using GPS: GPS Simplified for Outdoor Adventures (A Falcon Guide)
Model: 1560448210
Author: Bruce Grubbs
Falcon Publishing Company
Website: www.falcon.com/

Geocaching - The Official Global GPS Cache Hunt Site
The official online headquarters for the sport of geocaching, including thorough explanations and lots of web links.

Web site: www.geocaching.com
or, for a direct link to their frequently-asked-questions page:
Web site: www.geocaching.com/faq.asp

GARMIN International (GPS technology)
An industry leader in Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.
Web site: www.garmin.com

International Orienteering Federation
Web site: www.orienteering.org

TopoGrafix (GPS software)
Innovative software for Garmin, Magellan, or Lowrance GPS. Web site: www.topografix.com