[greyhounder]

@cheezehead wrote:

Bec, I hate to say it, but that is not the complete map or is does not include waysides, which are owned by the DOT. Off the top of my head I can think of a half a dozen in this area.

That’s the only map they give on their website. Odd that it’s not all-inclusive.

I’ll do a little more research…

Bec

[greyhounder]

Here’s a pretty funny post-script to my bat adventure.

Over the past weekend I was sharing my bat story with LightningBugs Mum. I seemed to recall that she had done some volunteer work for an wildlife rescue organization. Guess what? It was Wildlife In Need — one of the places that I called. And in fact, she was one of the volunteers that they were trying to reach to help get my bat!!

How funny would it have been if they had told her about the crazy lady with a bat on the porch at my address!!

Bec

[greyhounder]

Wow — now I’m really tired…..

Bec

[greyhounder]

@Team Hemisphere Dancer wrote:

How do I know what stances that you actually took in the BOD voting process? I have looked high and low on the WGA site and found no record of these minutes for the general membership to review. As a general member how do I know what you actually did as a voting member other than the resume’ that you put on your Candidates Corner page?

Keeping a record of all meeting minutes is a duty of the secretary, however, the by laws do not require publication of meeting minutes.

I would like to see meeting minutes published after each meeting, perhaps as a news item on the main page.

This would be a good topic of discussion for the next BOD.

As to the things that we have voted on — the changes and new things (like the committee structure for the picnic and campout, adopt-a-highway, geocoins) we have posted about on the forums.

As to my opinions on things? Just ask me, I’ll tell you. My ideas and opinions do not always affect the course of the WGA.

Probably not the answer you’re looking for. I don’t like the idea that people think the BOD is a secret group doing things behind the membership’s back. If that is the case, I really want to change that opinion.

Bec

[greyhounder]

Okay — here goes:

This is from Wikipedia:

A rest area, travel plaza, rest stop, or service area is a public facility, located next to a large thoroughfare such as a highway, expressway, or freeway at which drivers and passengers can rest, eat, or refuel. Other names include rest and service area (RSA), service station, resto, service plaza, and service center or service centre. Facilities may include park-like areas, fuel stations, restrooms, and restaurants. A rest area or rest stop with limited or no public facility is a parking area or scenic area. Along some highways are a rest stop known as a wayside park, roadside park or picnic area. Rest areas are common in the United States, Canada, Australia and parts of Europe and Asia

Here is the definition from the WI-DOT:

Welcome to Wisconsin’s rest areas and waysides. Our facilities can be found along the highways throughout the state, providing motorists a convenient opportunity to stop and rest. Rest areas are located on the Interstate highway system and other major four-lane highways and are open all year round. Waysides are generally located on two-lane highways and are usually open seasonally. We make every effort to make your visit enjoyable.

Our 32 rest areas have:

* Handicap accessibility
* Ample car and truck parking
* Clean restroom facilities
* Drinking water
* Picnic areas
* Telephones
* Weather monitors at most locations
* A place to walk your pet
* Snacks, soft drinks or newspapers from the vending services located at most locations
* Road maps, literature and other traveler information
* Some rest areas feature Wisconsin Welcome Centers with Department of Tourism personnel available to provide information and answer questions
* Historical facts and events are commemorated on Wisconsin Historical Marker plaques located on-site

Our waysides are more rustic in nature and feature parking, toilet facilities, drinking water and picnic areas on a smaller scale. Many waysides are located in scenic locations for your enjoyment. Waysides are generally open from early May through late October.

As I was told by our Rest Area Maintenance crew — a rest area is regularly maintained and has running water/plumbed facilities. A wayside is maintained less often and typically does not have running water or bathroom facilities (sometimes there is a hand pump for water or pit toilets).

You are correct, some waysides are still under the control of the WI-DOT, while others are now owned by counties, cities and towns.

These are the rest areas and waysides owned by the WI-DOT.

Yes, all caches are reviewed to see if they meet the geocaching.com guidelines. If permission is required a cache is disabled, giving the cache owner the opportunity to seek permission. I have disabled caches submitted at Wisconsin rest areas and asked the hider to contact the DOT to see if permission can be granted. Since I started reviewing, all people placing caches at rest areas and asking permission have been denied.

And as we saw with caches placed in SNAs, when the DNR asked us to archive these caches (even the virtuals) it was done quickly and without (too much) complaint. If the DNR does later decide that caches are not allowed on their property, you are correct, they will be archived. Although with all the relationship building that has occurred between the WGA and the DNR, I’m hopeful this will never happen.

After I read cheezehead’s post, I went back to look at the policy that the DOT has on geocaching. Here is what it says:

Geocaching at Wisconsin Roadside Facilities

Geocaching at Wisconsin Department of Transportation Roadside Facilities is not permitted at Department roadside facilities.

Wisconsin Department of Transportation Policy:

“The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has reviewed geocaching activity information in March 2005 and has indicated that it will not be allowed at Department roadside facilities. This is something that the Department cannot allow at rest areas, Wisconsin Welcome Center’s, or even at their waysides for reasons of liability/safety. They do not wish to open the door to other activities such as paintball, regular sports activities/leagues, ultimate frisbee, etc. all of which present problems. They will not allow any of this type of activity at any of their roadside facilities. Any geocaching activity that has already been initiated should be terminated. The Department has no problem with this “geocaching” activity in and of itself – it just doesn’t belong in the Department’s roadside facilities.”

Obviously, they are not that well informed about geocaching and its impact. I’m working really hard to try to correct this.

You also note the line, “Any geocaching activity that has already been initiated should be terminated.” Although I’ve read that line before, it really stood out to me this time.

The DOT does not perform the actual maintenance of the rest areas. Typically is is performed by organizations, such as the one I work for, that provides employment opportunities for individuals with barriers. The DOT does regular inspections of the rest areas, but do not know of the daily goings-on at their facilities.

I have spoken to several people who manage the maintenance of these facilities. Most are impartial to actually in favor of having geocaches at rest areas. Some know where they are even and have checked on them from time to time. I have even had a cache submission from Welcome Center rest area staff.

I think the thing that irks me the most about all of this is that the DOT is not even willing to start a dialog in regards to geocaching and its impact on rest areas. They have never been interested in speaking to the WGA or Groundspeak about their policy. Granted, it is published on the internet. Had I not been personally told that there was a policy against geocaching, we as a group, and those of us who review caches, would not be aware of this policy.

I don’t think there would actually be an criminal action to follow if someone is “caught” geocaching. Once, one of the DOT RAM officials hinted to me that fines could be a possiblity, but I don’t how they could enforce that (people wander around rest areas all the time). And then there is the geocaching disclaimer:

Geocaching Disclaimer

Geocaching.com is owned and operated by Groundspeak Inc. Information in the Geocaching.com database is updated regularly. Neither Groundspeak Inc., nor any agent, officer, employee or volunteer administrator of Groundspeak Inc. warrants the accuracy, reliability, or timeliness of any information and shall not be liable for any losses caused by such reliance on the accuracy, reliability, or timeliness of such information. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this information, portions may be incorrect or not current. Any person or entity that relies on information obtained from Geocaching.com does so at his or her own risk.

Geocaching, hiking, backpacking and other outdoor activities involve risk to both persons and property. There are many variables including, but not limited to, weather, fitness level, terrain features and outdoor experience, that must be considered prior to seeking or placing a Cache. Be prepared for your journey and be sure to check the current weather and conditions before heading outdoors. Always exercise common sense and caution.

In no way shall Groundspeak Inc. nor any agent, officer, employee or volunteer administrator of Groundspeak Inc., be liable for any direct, indirect, punitive, or consequential damages arising out of, or in any way connected with the use of this website or use of the information contained within.
Cache seekers assume all risks involved in seeking a cache.

This website is for personal and non-commercial use. You may not modify, copy, excerpt, distribute, transmit, publish, license, create derivative works from, or sell any information, or services obtained from this website.

Other products and companies referred to herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark holders.

Groundspeak Inc. reserves the right to change the terms, conditions, and notices under which this website is offered.

But bottom line, you are correct, geocaches should not be at rest areas. Wis Kid and I need to chat….

Bec

[greyhounder]

I am no better than any of the other people nominated for the board. It’ll be tough to narrow it down to just four come election time.

Why vote for me over the others? I don’t know. As I stated when I last ran for board, on the board I am nothing but the voice of the membership. If someone has a concern or question, I promise to bring it up with the board, and then get back to the individual with an answer. I would continue to do this as a returning board member.

I have some things I would really like to do as a board member — continue to work with the DOT, hold CITO events, and a winter event — but if the membership wants to go another direction, I am more than willing to do what needs to be done to make the WGA excellent.

I have 2 years experience already on the board. I suppose that counts for something. I have some experience as a reviewer, so I know what’s going on in the world of geocache placement.

I would appreciate anyone’s vote, but if you feel someone is a better candidate for the board, by all means, vote for someone else. I have really enjoyed my behind the scenes tour being on the board and would like to continue it.

This is a tough question to answer! Hopefully, I wasn’t too rambly!
Bec

[greyhounder]

To increase participation at event, I think contacting local newspapers (perhaps radio stations or even regional publications) is a great way to get the word out.

Our newsletter — now that it is officially out — is a great way to reach geocachers who have registered with the WGA, but are not actively involved. I have been contacted by several people as a result of the newsletter. I would like to see the newsletter published on a monthly basis.

I think the WGA should hold more events, in more locations. This is a great way to get more people involved. I think we should be holding CITO events (especially with out adopted highways). I am a big supporter of the WGA having a regular winter event as well.

If we had regional representation, this would be another great way to get more geocachers involved. Geocaching meet and greets, as well as more formal events, like picnics and camping outing would be a great way to increase participation in various regions of the state.

Another way I think we might get more participation at events is to offer options in additon to hunting temporaries. At the 2007 campout we had garlic mustard pulling and lots of people helped out (THANK YOU!) We should always have volunteer opportunities available, at all events. I’d also like to see more speakers or presentations at events — on a variety of topics related to our pasttime. This could be a park ranger talking about the special features of the park, a fellow geocaher running a class on GSAk, or maybe even a representative from a local bat group to do a presentation on bat species in Wisconsin 😉 Offering option for geocahers is a way to ensure more people would want to attend.

Bec

[greyhounder]

This depends on the market for geocoins. If there is a demand for them however, I say go for it! It has been very profitable for us, and lots of fun in the designing and voting!

Best case scenario, we are able to sell it at an event. It all depends on the process leading up the the point that the coin can be sold.

I always like having our organization design and decide on the coin. That’s so much preferable to having a committee or the board decide on a design. And as I said before — it was really fun!

Bec

[greyhounder]

I have some personal contacts with DOT Rest Areas. At this point they are VERY against geocaches in rest areas. They are not yet williing to make any changes on their stance, however, I do poke them from time to time. They are aware of Minnesota’s great geocaching policy, but are not interested in implementing their own. This is something I consider my pet project, and is something I have been working on since the beginning of 2007. I think it’s going to be a long-term project.

As a reviewer I cannot at this time publish caches in rest areas. I was given official word that geocaching is not allowed in rest areas. If someone submits a cache in a rest area, all I can do is ask that they make contact with the DOT. So far, the response has been the same (no).

Yes, there are currently geocaches in rest areas. Should they be archived? Probably. However, I like to think that by leaving them there, and showing the DOT that no problems have occurred as a result might be a good thing.

Something also to note — waysides are not under the jurisdiction of the DOT. They are fair game for geocache placement.

Bec

[greyhounder]

Quite simply, and as has been my opinion since being on the board, if the membership wants to see the logo changed, we should go ahead and do it!

We’ve had some great submissions for our campout shirts, as well as geocoins. I think asking the membership for ideas for a logo would be great (and then voting on what we all like the best).

Bec

[greyhounder]

What makes the campout and picnic a success is the attendance of people at these events and the smiles I see on faces. I especially love it when people who have never geocached before come to event to learn about it. We have created new geocachers at some of our events.

In the last 2 years:

2006 Campout
I assisted with camper registration, day of registration and the pancake breakfast. Since it was my first event on the board, and I was learning the ropes, I sort of did whatever people needed me to do.

2006 Picnic
I served as co-chair for this event.
I scouted the location and several possible spots for our base of operations. I took pictures and reported back to the board my findings.
I hid some temporary caches
I think this was the event where I helped assemble the booklets (with Jeremy and Brain Tie.)
I assisted with set up, registration and clean up

2007 Campout
I served as co-chair for this event
I assisted with temporary cache placement by acting as the official registrar of cache information
I, with help, put together the event booklet
I assisted with set, uploaded coordinates (day and night caches) and helped with clean up
I emceed the meeting

2007 Picnic
As we had established committees during 2007, I was not directly involved in the planning of the picnic, but I did keep close tabs on the committee’s progress. I think they did a spectacular job. I actually missed having an actual role in the picnic.

If elected to another board term, I will be sure to be involved in all events (perhaps even a winter event!) Even if not elected to the board, being involved in the planning and executing of events is a lot of fun. I am willing to help out in any capacity.

Bec

[greyhounder]

I am so glad our fellow geocachers worked so hard to convince Brown County that geocaching fees are not necessary!!

There are fees to access state parks, use bike trails, camps, etc, so I guess fees to place geocaches is not too far-fetched. However, I don’t think there should be a fee to place a geocache, since the county does benefit from the increased tourism and commerce to the area. We all know that we usually end up spending money geocaching (that Culver’s flavor of the day is also so tempting!)

Dane county, specifically, likes to charge for things as seen here. In the past the WGA has worked with Dane County Parks to develop a geocaching policy. Perhaps it is time to revisit with some Dane County officials again. As geocaching come out from the shadows and more people are involved in it, perhaps Dane County is willing to make some changes.

Bec

[greyhounder]

I always look at it as one person’s “uninteresting urban locations” as another person’s typical caching area. Many of us prefer to get out in the woods, go for a long hike and find a nice ammo can. For others, this is just not as much fun as finding 10-20 caches in a short afternoon. Many times these type of micros are more accessible to those cachers with limited abilities.

The future of this activity, as more people are finding geocaching and wanting to put out caches, is that some folks are just going to want to put caches in their hometowns, perhaps in areas in which others may not see the enjoyment factor. Simply, if you don’t like these types of caches, don’t do them. Same goes for people who don’t want to go for a long hike in the buggy woods.

My feelings? It really depends on what my caching goal is for the day. When I want to really have a great day, usually with great people, I prefer the long hike in the woods with the ammo box. I get the most personal satisfaction out of these kinds of finds. But, when I’m really looking to bump up my find count, I love going to somewhere with a bunch of micros in every single park. These types of caches are also great when I’m planning caching missions with Mom (ldybugldy). Not only is she great at finding micros (me, not so much, and I appreciate the help) but these types of hides are less taxing on her physcially.

Bec

[greyhounder]

I am interested in pursuing regional representation. Someone had earlier mentioned something along the lines of the different regions acting as “sub-committees”. This would be a great way to spread the word about geocaching to some of our farther reaches through events (geocaching and/or community based).

I think, in a way, we already have strong “leaders” in some of our state regions. Perhaps these people would be interested in taking on some responsibility in organizing amongst themselves in whatever manner best meets the needs of the region.

But perhaps you were thinking more along the lines of having one board representative per region of the state. Ideally, this would be great. I’d like to see more people from more regions of the state nominated — and more people from other regions interested in running for the board. That might help in getting more regional representation on the board.

Bec

[greyhounder]

Not sure if you wanted answers here or with our little blurbs, but I’ll put mine here:

I think Wisconsin would be a great place for Midwest Geobash! In fact, I have had a conversation with one of the organizers of the event about this. While at this time they are very happy with keeping MWGB in Ohio, moving it in the future is not out of the question. I would like to keep in contact with these folks, in case they do decide to move.

I also think having our own mega event is a great idea! I was just toying with the idea a little bit ago as I was recently contacted by a large venue in Wisconsin (a raceway many of you might know of) that would be interested in hosting us for an event. I would like to continue to pursue this venue as a possible mega event location. Personally, I am more than willing to continue to talk to this (or other) locations to bring such an event to fruition.

Bec

Whoops! I said the MWGB was in Ohio, but I meant Indiana (Kendallville). Thank goodness I knew where I was going when I went there last year!

[Author]

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