Call for GPS data in Tucson Mountain Park
I am working on new techniques for modeling recreational trail user behaviour. The goal is to achieve a realistic model of current trail use in order to assess impact and trail user interactions. This work is part of my PhD research in Computer Science (minor in Renewable Natural Resources). I have selected Tucson Mountain Park (TMP) for my project because of its increasing level of use.
A major component of my project involves the acquisition of GPS data from TMP trail users. If you have a GPS unit and carry it with you while hiking, mountain biking, running etc., I am soliciting your assistance. I would like you to take your GPS with you during your recreation activity to keep track of your trip.
The data will be used to obtain:
1 - a complete trail map of the area
2 - average travel speeds for each trail
3 - usage statistics for each trail
The complete trail map, as well as the simulation model itself, will be made available at the completion of the project.
The preferred format for data is GPX (see http://www.topografix.com/gpx), but data in any format will be accepted. To encourage submission of data in GPX we have released the free version of TopoFusion which interfaces with Garmin and Magellan units. This free version allows users to download, view and save data in GPX format. It also has a demonstration of the trail simulator.
For more information on the project or to submit data, please see http://www.topofusion.com/agent.php or email me at smorris@topofusion.com
Thank you.
Scott Morris
University of Arizona
Note: we are no longer accepting data submissions for this project. Thanks for your interest.
I am working on new techniques for modeling recreational trail user behaviour. The goal is to achieve a realistic model of current trail use in order to assess impact and trail user interactions. This work is part of my PhD research in Computer Science (minor in Renewable Natural Resources). I have selected Tucson Mountain Park (TMP) for my project because of its increasing level of use.
A major component of my project involves the acquisition of GPS data from TMP trail users. If you have a GPS unit and carry it with you while hiking, mountain biking, running etc., I am soliciting your assistance. I would like you to take your GPS with you during your recreation activity to keep track of your trip.
The data will be used to obtain:
1 - a complete trail map of the area
2 - average travel speeds for each trail
3 - usage statistics for each trail
The complete trail map, as well as the simulation model itself, will be made available at the completion of the project.
The preferred format for data is GPX (see http://www.topografix.com/gpx), but data in any format will be accepted. To encourage submission of data in GPX we have released the free version of TopoFusion which interfaces with Garmin and Magellan units. This free version allows users to download, view and save data in GPX format. It also has a demonstration of the trail simulator.
For more information on the project or to submit data, please see http://www.topofusion.com/agent.php or email me at smorris@topofusion.com
Thank you.
Scott Morris
University of Arizona