Comparing the two maps is interesting. At first glance, the old map looks easier to read, while the new map has a bit more detail. The added detail in the new map seems to be mostly green areas and trails. The new map also seems to have more form lines.
It is dangerous to draw a conclusion from just two examples and from such a quick comparison, but I suspect that these maps are good representatives of how mapping have developed over the last 15-20 years. The Scandinavian maps that I look at these days seem to show a lot more green that the ones I remember running on 15 years ago. I can't imagine the terrain has become thicker. It must be that mappers are showing the runnability in more detail. I also suspect that mappers are, as a rule, using more form lines than they used to.
I wonder if the top orienteers have changed thier techniques to accomodate the developments in mapping. I think the newer maps would make it easier to keep map contact and easier to pick our and stick to a route. It might also make it easier to relocate if you lost contact.
Some mapping trivia
Kristen Treekrem checked the Nordic Champs map. If I remember correctly, Treekrem was one of the fieldcheckers on the original map of Sebago Beach.
posted by Michael |
8:58 PM
