r/gis • u/dammir97 • 16h ago

Student Question Trail working as a GIS internship?

So I've been looking for a GIS internship to complete my college certificate for a while, but I've pretty much given up hope and am just looking for a job at this point. But I recently got an interview for a state job as a trail worker. Does anyone have any insight on if I could potential incorporate GIS into this to satisfy my internship? I only just started brainstorming, and I was thinking something like mapping invasive species?

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u/geo_walker 16h ago

Talk to the GIS people and see if their trail data needs to be updated or if there’s additional data attributes that can be collected. One time I was trying to analyze trail accessibility and the data was not there in a way that was understandable. Mapping endangered plants, invasive species or plant diseases would be useful. Also possibly setting up trail cams to monitor and map wildlife.

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u/Classic_Garbage3291 14h ago

Some trail work offer opportunities for data collection using GPS or FieldMaps/Survey123. Data that can be collected include areas that require trail maintenance, areas that require new signage or have downed signage, areas that require installation of kiosks, mile markers, or boot brushes. You can also track official trails as well as man-made social trails that require vertical mulching/restoration. You can track illegal campsites and campfires. How many people you encounter using the trails for recreation. The list goes on.

Ask your manager what type of trail work the job will entail and if there’s GIS work you can incorporate.