Map Team Member

The Map Team Member supports the Buckeye Trail Association (BTA) by helping maintain accurate and up-to-date trail mapping resources. This role assists with collecting field data, managing geographic information, and developing digital and printed maps that help hikers safely navigate the Buckeye Trail.

Duties/Responsibilities

Map Team Members may be involved with some or all of the following, depending on Map Team needs, individual skills, and preferences:

• Collect accurate field data using GPS units and mobile mapping applications
• Record trail lines, waypoints, points of interest, road crossings, and other relevant geographic features
• Follow data collection, recording, and management procedures established by the Map Team Chair
• Assist with verifying and updating trail alignments and reroutes
• Provide recommendations for trail reroutes based on field observations and mapping needs
• Assist with updating online mapping platforms and digital trail resources
• Support the development, revision, and review of printed map files
• Review mapping data for accuracy, consistency, and completeness
• Work collaboratively with Section Supervisors and other members of the Trail Management Team, Chapter Leadership, and other volunteers to ensure maps reflect current trail conditions
• Participate in special mapping projects as assigned

Outcome/Impact

The Map Team helps ensure that Buckeye Trail maps and navigation resources are accurate, reliable, and useful for hikers. This work improves trail safety, enhances the hiking experience, supports trail management decisions, and helps maintain the integrity of one of the BTA's most valuable resources.

Risks & Hazards

Potential for minor injuries associated with hiking and field data collection activities: outdoor fieldwork may involve hiking on uneven terrain, road walks, stream crossings, steep slopes, and remote trail sections, as well as exposure to weather, insects, wildlife, and other outdoor conditions.

Term Length & Exit Clause Reminder

This is a volunteer role that may be served continuously or as agreed upon between the volunteer and the volunteer supervisor. Volunteers are encouraged to commit for at least one year to provide continuity for mapping projects and data management efforts, and should provide advance notice if they are unable to continue serving. We deeply value your time and your willingness to support the Buckeye Trail in a volunteer capacity. We do our best to check in as needed with new volunteers to ensure you have the tools and support you need to make a difference. As a volunteer, you understand that your service is entirely voluntary. At any time and for any reason, either you or the BTA may choose to end your volunteer service. A volunteer position may also be adjusted, in conversation with the relevant BTA staff member, to better suit either the needs of the BTA or the interests of the volunteer. The best way to ensure you're well supported and providing meaningful service is to stay in regular and proactive contact with your BTA volunteer point person, who will be introduced to you during the onboarding process.

• Ability to accurately collect and record field data
• Basic computer skills and ability to work with digital files and online platforms
• Ability to hike varying trail conditions while collecting data
• Willingness to follow established mapping standards and data management procedures
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy

Desired Skills

• Experience with Esri mapping products such as ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro
• Experience using FarOut field mapping applications, including both field data collection and backend data management
• Experience using GPS units such as Bad Elf GPS devices or similar equipment
• Familiarity with GIS concepts, cartography, or geographic data management
• Knowledge of the Buckeye Trail and its route network
• Experience reviewing and editing map layouts for print or digital publication

Expectations

• Follow all mapping standards and procedures established by the Map Team Chair
• Submit field data promptly and in the required format
• Communicate regularly regarding project progress and questions
• Maintain accurate records and documentation
• Work collaboratively with other mapping and trail management volunteers
• Represent the BTA professionally while conducting fieldwork and interacting with landowners, trail users, and partners

To express interest in joining the Map Team, reach out to volunteer@buckeyetrail.org and provide a summary of your experience with field and desktop mapping.