VISUALIZING EARLHAM COLLEGE’S MILLER FARM: A VISITOR’S MAP AND GUIDE

Miller Farm is located on roughly 40 acres of land along the Whitewater river. A digital elevation model produced from differential GPS data will form the basis for an educational sign and map displayed the farm's entrance, highlighting the farm and surrounding forest, marshes, streams, and historical ruins. This educational display, funded by Earlham College's Student Action Research Grant Initiative, will raise awareness of the farm's rich heritage and resources, and encourage community participation in the farm's programs.

We used a Magellan DGPS to collect elevation and location data, and processed them in ArcGIS. Our digital elevation model will be printed on a durable outdoor signboard, along with background information for and photographs of the features highlighted on the map. This project is an interdisciplinary effort of Earlham's Miller Farm, Geology Department, and Center for Environmental Action, combining collection of field topographic data, processing in GIS, and exhibit design with the goal of encouraging and welcoming visitors to explore the farm.