What is a Mapping Party?

A mapping party is where a group of mappers and novices descend on an area to map it exhaustively. It’s a social event where people can meet up and talk in between mapping sessions. A mapping session consists of dividing up an area between participants and mapping it on foot, by car or bike

I don’t have any prior experience, is that okay?

Sure! One of the goals of a mapping party is to help familiarize people with MappingDC. There will be people at the party to help get you started.

Do I need any special equipment?

If you don’t have a GPS, then you can use the Walking Papers that will be provided at the event. If you do have a GPS, please bring it. Also, if you have a smartphone, like an Apple iPhone or an Android phone, that can also be used for mapping.

For editing and eventually uploading the data, you’ll need a computer. If you have a laptop, that’d be helpful too.

Do I need a computer?

Not for the data collection, but you will need a computer to upload your data. You’ll also need an account on openstreetmap.org so you can upload your data.

Is there anything else I should know?

Dress comfortably, since you’ll probably be spending a lot of time outside.