Explaining GPS: the Global Positioning System

Abstract

GPS, or the Global Positioning System, is basically an electronic tool that provides the user with accurate position information, usually in the form of world coordinates (latitude and longitude). However, this simple concept — accurate location determination — has far-reaching implications in agriculture and natural resource management because, if the coordinates of a location are known, then you can return (navigate) to that location time and time again. This replaces the age-old method of landmark navigation with a fence post and a pine tree. This publication will provide you with a simple and straightforward explanation of how GPS works and how this technology can be put to work to help you in your job.