A1.1: Base Map Revisions (Forum)
For this assignment, use your slideshow template even if you are drawing your map. You can insert a picture of your drawing by clicking "Insert" > Image > Upload from Computer. Here is a tutorial on how to add photos to a slideshow.
This is your opportunity to revisit and refine your base maps to create a drawn-to-scale map that you can rely on as a functional tool throughout this course.
We acknowledge that students in this class have varying levels of experience with mapping and design. Regardless of your background, we know you can create a functional and accurate base map that includes all the necessary components for upcoming assignments.
There are two ways to create a base map: drawing it by hand or doing it digitally.
PLEASE WATCH THIS VIDEO FOR A STEP-BY-STEP TUTORIAL FOR BEGINNERS
Hand-Drawn Maps:
- Should be outlined in pen or fine tip Sharpie for clarity.
- Black and white maps
- Key legends should be numbers or letters.
E.g.: H for House. B for Barn. C for Chicken Coop - 1 for Pond, 2 for Garage, 3 for Greenhouse, etc.
Materials needed. All of these should be easy to find:
- Large white drawing paper (Poster size! At least 16.5 x 23.4 inches or 18 x 24 inches)
- Pencils (#2 or mechanical)
- Marker for outlining (fine tip)
- Eraser
- Ruler (12-inch or 18-inch for longer measurements)
- Compass
Digital Maps:
We recommend using Google Slides. Other drawing programs (Photoshop, Adobe, Procreate, etc.) can also be used, but please attach your design to the slideshow template.
Watch this video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7aBU20WxXck&list=PLHPXm2Es8aQBz1gUFABgV_IHfE6Pu0VY_&index=1
ALL MAPS MUST INCLUDE:
- Site Name
- Site Address
- Designer's Name
- Property owner(s) (if different than the Designer's name)
- Date
- Scale
- Key
- Compass rose indicating North (A compass rose is a symbol on a map that shows the cardinal directions: north, south, east, and west)
- Existing PERMANENT structures currently on site (accurately placed and labeled)
Examples of permanent structures:
- Buildings: Houses, barns, garages, greenhouses (permanent)
- Hardscape: Driveways, sidewalks, gates
- Utilities: Water tanks (fixed), wells, septic systems, wind turbines, solar panel arrays (fixed), electrical poles
- Foundational Infrastructure: Bridges, culverts, irrigation channels (permanent)
- Animal Shelters: Stables, animal barns, etc.
If it won't be on your site for at least +5 years, it is not a permanent structure and should not be included on your map.
Additional Notes:
- Focus only on existing, permanent features on the site. Avoid adding plans or proposed designs.
- Ensure your map covers the entire property without focusing on one area.
- Double-check your work for completeness and clarity before submitting.