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...

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: Exploring Vessels

Join us in this episode of Into the Outdoors episode, we learn about vessels! What are they? How can they be safely operated? Being out on the water is a great way 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...

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...
Mapping the Mysteries of the Great Lakes. Man and women walking on sand towards Great Lake

Mapping the Mysteries: Great Lakes Careers

When a school career fair leaves the team uninspired, Diane, Jack, and Terry split up to chase down real careers around the Great Lakes—from the harbors of Sheboygan,...

Getting Families Fishing

Okay admit it! Kids and even parents today can't seem to "disconnect" from their cell phones long often enough to make time for meaningful face-to-face connections with...

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...

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...

Into Fishing With A Spincasting Reel

In this Into the Outdoors episode, we learn about fishing with a spincaster, boater safety, and how to catch a fish like a pro. Watch as Into the Outdoors Adventure...

Thank you, Partners!