Mapping for Impact: Enhancing Outdoor Spaces Through Spatial Analysis
Location
Turner Gymnasium
Access Type
Campus Access Only
Presentation Type
Printed poster
Entry Number
36
Start Date
4-16-2026 12:00 PM
End Date
4-16-2026 1:15 PM
School
School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Department
Environmental Science
Keywords
GPS, GIS Tools, Camp Kum Ba Yah, Outdoor Leadership Program, Mapping
Abstract
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are powerful tools used to analyze spatial data and support environmental navigation and community accessibility. During our GIS internship, we explored how geospatial technologies could enhance land management and outdoor programming at University of Lynchburg in collaboration with Camp Kum Ba Ya and the university’s Outdoor Leadership Program. The project combined structured GIS training with hands-on field data collection. Through online courses offered by Esri, we developed skills in ArcGIS Online, including creating choropleth maps, refining symbology and map styles, editing data filters, establishing area boundaries, and identifying suitable locations through spatial analysis. Over several weeks, this coursework strengthened our ability to interpret spatial trends and support data-driven decision-making through mapping. These technical skills were applied directly in the field. In addition to developing interactive maps and StoryMaps for Camp Kum Ba Ya, we conducted GPS data collection to map a disc golf course, trails, activity areas, and key sites within the Outdoor Leadership Program, as well as routes that support community engagement. Initial observations revealed navigation challenges, including inconsistencies in hole locations and significant distances between tee posts and baskets. By collecting accurate waypoint and track data, we improved spatial precision and created clearer, more user-friendly digital maps. This internship demonstrates that integrating GIS analysis with GPS field data strengthens land management practices and enhances public community engagement. By improving navigation and strengthening environmental data analysis, geospatial technologies promote more sustainable and accessible outdoor spaces while emphasizing the importance of evidence-based planning and decision-making.
Primary Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Brooke Haiar and Dr. David Perault
Primary Faculty Mentor(s) Department
Environmental Science
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Mapping for Impact: Enhancing Outdoor Spaces Through Spatial Analysis
Turner Gymnasium
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are powerful tools used to analyze spatial data and support environmental navigation and community accessibility. During our GIS internship, we explored how geospatial technologies could enhance land management and outdoor programming at University of Lynchburg in collaboration with Camp Kum Ba Ya and the university’s Outdoor Leadership Program. The project combined structured GIS training with hands-on field data collection. Through online courses offered by Esri, we developed skills in ArcGIS Online, including creating choropleth maps, refining symbology and map styles, editing data filters, establishing area boundaries, and identifying suitable locations through spatial analysis. Over several weeks, this coursework strengthened our ability to interpret spatial trends and support data-driven decision-making through mapping. These technical skills were applied directly in the field. In addition to developing interactive maps and StoryMaps for Camp Kum Ba Ya, we conducted GPS data collection to map a disc golf course, trails, activity areas, and key sites within the Outdoor Leadership Program, as well as routes that support community engagement. Initial observations revealed navigation challenges, including inconsistencies in hole locations and significant distances between tee posts and baskets. By collecting accurate waypoint and track data, we improved spatial precision and created clearer, more user-friendly digital maps. This internship demonstrates that integrating GIS analysis with GPS field data strengthens land management practices and enhances public community engagement. By improving navigation and strengthening environmental data analysis, geospatial technologies promote more sustainable and accessible outdoor spaces while emphasizing the importance of evidence-based planning and decision-making.