History of Nautical Navigation: Safely Navigating Our Waterways

For hundreds of years, the waterways of the United States have been utilized as a means of transportation. From historical navigation tools and methods used by Native Americans to modern instruments used to navigate our waterways today, we set out to learn how our relationship with the waterways has evolved. With the construction of levees, locks and dams, the structure of the river has changed to become more navigable, but this also means boaters must be equipped with the knowledge of how to navigate these potential obstacles. As our technology and methods have improved, our navigation knowledge must develop as well. Join us as we learn about the history of nautical navigation, from past to present, and how to safely navigate our waterways. 

Full Video

Classroom Videos

A Delicate Balance: How Transporation Has Impacted Our Waterways

How To Use A Compass

Classroom Assets

Compass Navigation

Inland Waterways

RElated Content

A River Reborn / The Ottaway, A River Reconnected

Rivers are like arteries, bringing life to the region surrounding them, washing away waste, purifying the environment with their biotic and abiotic processes.  Just...

Extreme Survival Strategies

How do Polar vortexes, climate change, record storms, extreme weather of all kinds play havoc on our ecosystems and all the species that live there? Discover the...

Into Family Fishing in Your National Forests

In this Into the Outdoors episode, witness the wonders you could experience while exploring our public lands as you watch four family fishing adventures taking place in...

Into Boating Safety: Fun With Watercrafts

In this Into the Outdoors episode, we’re heading out on the water in a variety of different water crafts! Water sports have gained popularity in recent years, and with...

Into Family Fishing the Last Frontier

In this Into the Outdoors episode, discover the art of fly fishing and how this activity can be enjoyed at any stage of life. We follow the story of a young kid, his...

Florida Fishing Fun

Welcome to Florida Fishing Fun as part of our Getting Families Fishing Series. As you’ll discover in this video, fishing with friends and family offers you pathways to...

The Ottaway, A River Reborn

This page offers a chance for you to see the entire Emmy-winning film in HD. It also provides link to the classroom educational films and lesson activities related to...

Amazing Eco Trek Race

Could you survive this gauntlet of physical and mental tests? Discover the answers by watching the four parts of this science show and reading the information below....

Ripples in the Forest

So what makes a forest ecosystem dynamic and sustainable? Discover the answers by watching the four parts of this science show and reading the information below. And to...

Decoding the Science of Boating Safety

What do physics geniuses, Archimedes and Sir Isaac Newton have to do with keeping you safe while boating? Join our outdoor adventure team as they decode the fun and...

Thank you, Partners!