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

Into Boating Safety: How Life Jackets Save You

In this Into the Outdoors episode, we’re jumping into the science and importance of PFDs, or personal floatation devices – you know, your life jacket! Wearing a PFD can...

Into Hunting and Conservation

Anyone, anywhere can get started hunting with the right tools and guidance! Hunting anywhere is challenging, especially for an inexperienced hunter.  In order to be...

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...

Reconnecting Rivers & Invasive Species

Maybe it's only natural that us humans rarely think about how our actions today might impact others or the environment 100 years later. That was especially true back in...

Into National Marine Sanctuaries

The earth's oceans are home to thousands of species of marine life, from tiny plankton to enormous humpback whales. The Great Lakes' contain more than six thousand...

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...

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...

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...

Into Safe and Smart Boating – Part 1

Whether you're boating or fishing from a boat, canoe, or kayak, being safe on the water comes down to a few basic facts. The first fact facing us humans is that we...

Thank you, Partners!