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

How to Protect Lakes from Invasive Species

Becky and Jane just started the lamest summer job ever—until they realize the marina is full of wild surprises! From talking frogs with safety tips to a fishy...

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...

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...

Into Bowfishing: Common Carp

In this Into the Outdoors episode, we learn about bowfishing for the invasive species, common carp. Watch as Into the Outdoors Adventure Team members, Garrett and Kayla...

Into Boating Safety: Advanced Boating Technology

In this Into the Outdoors episode, we’re meeting up with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary to learn more about different boating technologies that could save your...

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...

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...

Making Your First Catch

Okay, so there's several great ways to enjoy and share the aquatic education and fishing savvy in this show. First, you can kick back with family or friends to watch...

Game Bird Quest

Pheasant hunting is in our heritage, and is an outdoor recreation that many people include in their lifestyles today. Huh, so what’s the big deal? Why are people so...

Safety and Etiquette: Becoming A Responsible Boater

Boating safety courses are essential for teaching new boaters about the rules of the waterway and how to safely operate a boat, but there are some "unspoken rules" that...

Thank you, Partners!