Service Learning with Natural Resources Using GPS/GIS TechnologyTy Petty, Extension Agent, The University of Tennessee Extension, Unicoi County, 100 N. Main Ave., Erwin, TN 37650, typetty@utk.edu

Teen 4‐H members in Unicoi County, TN are using GIS(geographic information system) to promote conservation,tourism, and active lifestyles. The first project involvedmapping storm drains and labeling them with waterproofstickers stating “No Dumping, Drains to Stream.” The GISteam began hiking and mapping local sections of theAppalachian Trail after the county was designated as anAppalachian Trail Community. Current projects include anonline community resources guide, a greenway guide, a localriver guide, and a map of local recycling centers. The youthhiked over seventy miles during the past two years whilelearning about GPS/GIS technology, tree identification,conservation, and natural resources. The youth improvedtheir teamwork, communication, fitness, careerpreparedness, and technology skills. Three of the teammembers joined the National 4‐H GPS/GIS Leadership Team in2011. The Unicoi County Appalachian Trail Map won the BestStudent Map Presentation Award at the 2011 ESRIInternational User Conference. Over a thousand localAppalachian Trail Brochures, created by the 4‐H GIS team,have been distributed through the Chamber of Commerceand U.S. Forest Service.

Abstract

GoalsMake Unicoi County a major destination for outdoor recreationIncrease awareness of local natural resourcesTake over fifty 4‐H members hikingImprove teamwork, citizenship, communication, conservation, and technology skillsIncrease number of youth GIS projects across the state and country

The 4‐H GIS Team’s firstmajor project includedlabeling storm drainswith “No Dumping”stickers and creating amap of all the stormdrains in the Town ofUnicoi.

ImpactCreated Appalachian Trail Map and BrochureDistributed over 1,000 Trail BrochuresCreated Storm Drain MapCreated Pinnacle Fire Tower Trail MapCreated County Recycling MapOver seventy youth hiked at least 8 milesYouth improved their teamwork, communication, fitness, conservation, career preparedness, and technology skillsMade over 15 presentations at conferences, government meetings, and civic organizationsWon Best Student Map Award at ESRI International GIS ConferenceWon inaugural State 4‐H GIS Project ChampionshipTrained 13 Extension Agents at first State 4‐H GIS In‐ServiceFive 4‐H members were selected to join the National 4‐H GPS/GIS Leadership Team

Partners

Big Bald Mountain along the Appalachian Trail

Best Student Map at ESRI International GIS Conf.

State Champion 4‐H GIS Project

Map created to increase recycling and educate public 

Hiking across Big Bald Mountain on the AT at 5,516’ elevation

Hikers enjoy the view overlooking the Nolichucky River along the AT