GEOCACHING

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Basic Information On Caching

Rules & Regulations

Location Specific Rules And Regulations

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Cache Rescuers

Welcome to Caching !
Wisconsin Chapter "A" is setting off to establish a new pass-time for all GWRRA Wisconsin members to enjoy!


What is Caching ?
Caching  is a modern day spin off of a worldwide game of hiding and seeking treasure known as Geocaching. A Cacher (you) can place a Cache somewhere in Wisconsin , pinpoint its location using GPS technology and then share the Cache’s existence and location online. Anyone with a GPS unit can then try to locate the Cache.

What is the meaning of the word Geocaching?
The word Geocaching refers to GEO for geography, and to CACHING, the process of hiding a cache. A cache in computer terms is information usually stored in memory to make it faster to retrieve, but the term is also used in hiking/camping as a hiding place for concealing and preserving provisions. Coordinates are normally given in Latitude and Longitude.

With signals from four satellites, a GPS receiver can get a more accurate fix that includes altitude and the exact time, as well as latitude and longitude. The more satellite signals the receiver reads, the more accurate the position it reports to you.

How do I use a GPS unit for Caching ?
In order to go Caching , you will need to understand how to enter waypoints into your GPS device. If you have any questions, try the online forums. There is always someone ready to help.
All you need is a GPS and coordinates to a specific cache location. Seems pretty easy, it is deceptively easy. It is one thing to know where a location is shown on a map; it is another to actually try to arrive at that location. The object of Caching  is to first remember to respect the environment and practice Cache In Trash Out along the way. Also remember we will usually be hunting the caches by motorcycle, so all caches should be placed in easy to get to places, but out of sight from the general public. Places like rest areas, fast food parking lots, Visitor centers, meeting places, etc.

What are the rules in Caching ?

1.If you take something from the cache, leave something of equal or greater value. Usually nothing worth more than $1.00, items like a Chapter Rally pin or small mascot toys are perfect.
2.Write about your find in the cache logbook if one is provided at the find site.
3.Send your cache location to the Chapter Director and they will have them entered into a spreadsheet on the Chapter Web site so that other members can find them and continue the fun.

What is usually in a cache?
In its simplest form, a cache sometimes contains a logbook. The logbook contains information from the owner of the cache, notes from visitors and can contain much valuable, rewarding, and entertaining information. In smaller caches, a log-sheet may be used. Larger caches may contain a logbook and any number of more or less valuable items. These items turn the cache into a true treasure hunt. You never know what the owner or other visitors of the cache may have left there for you to enjoy. Remember, if you take something, it is only fair for you to leave something in return. It is recommended that items in a cache be individually packaged in a clear, zipped plastic bag to protect them from the elements.

What should not be placed in a cache?
People of all ages hide and seek caches, so think carefully before placing an item into a cache. Explosives, ammunition, knives, drugs and alcohol should not be placed in a cache. Respect the local laws.

Food items are always a bad idea. Animals have better noses than humans, and in some cases caches have been chewed through and destroyed because of food items in a cache. Please do not put food or candy in a cache.

Where are caches found?
It is common for Cachers to hide caches in locations that are important to them, reflecting a special interest of the cache owner. These unique locations on the planet can be quite diverse. Make sure to read the cache descriptions carefully. Caches may be located in cities both above and below ground, and outside of buildings. Even the skilful placement of a small logbook in an urban environment may be quite challenging to find even with the accuracy of a GPS. Have fun and remember to share your Caching  experiences with fellow members.

Can I move a cache once I find it?
Do not move a cache from its original location. If you feel that the cache may not be located in the correct location, please email the Chapter Director (CD) directly to inform of the more accurate GPS coordinate. It is an owner’s responsibility to maintain cache placement.

How do I hide a cache?
Before considering your first Cache hide, we suggest you go to www.geocache.com and try to find a variety of caches in your area to familiarize yourself with the activity. Geocaching is just like real estate - location, location, location! It is common for Cachers to hide caches in locations that are important to them, reflecting a special interest of the cache owner. These unique locations on the planet can be quite diverse. A prime camping spot, great viewpoint, unusual location, etc. are all good places to hide a cache.

When thinking about where to place a cache, keep these things in mind:

•Does it meet all Caching  requirements listed on the site? Make sure to review these during your research. Issues of concern include cache saturation, commerciality, solicitation and long-term cache maintenance.
•Did you consider accessibility? If it is too visible or too close to busy roads and trails, there is a good chance someone may stumble upon it by accident. It is best to place a cache just off trail to preserve the environment but keep it out of sight of people casually passing by.
•Did you seek permission from the land owner or manager?

Will the location placement cause unnecessary concern?
Please use common sense when choosing a location for your cache. If you find a problematic cache, please contact the CD directly.

What do I do if I find out that a cache has gone missing?
If you visit a cache location and the cache is missing, make sure to log the cache as one that you "Did Not Find" so the cache owner is notified. Cache owners who repeatedly receive "Did Not Find" logs should check to see that their cache has not been removed.
 

Location Specific Rules And Regulations

• State of Wisconsin (DNR) Managed Land: If placing a cache on a State of Wisconsin (DNR) managed land you MUST notify a DNR land manager BEFORE hiding your cache. To notify the DNR of your intent to place a cache on State land, please download and print the notification form (2500-118), fill it out with all the proper information, and submit it to the appropriate DNR land manager. Follow all instructions on the form and keep in mind that the land manager reserves the right to remove the cache at any time with proper notification to the placer.

If you are unsure whether the area you plan to place a cache is managed by the State or if you don't know who to contact for a particular piece of land, consult the web pages shown on the form. Some of these links can also be found on the State Of Wisconsin Managed Land Links wiki page.

Please include the following text on the cache page for caches hidden on DNR managed land:

The Geocache Notification Form has been submitted to <NAME OF LAND MANAGER> of the Wisconsin DNR. Geocaches placed on Wisconsin Department of Natural Resource managed lands require permission by means of a notification form. Please print out a paper copy of the notification form, fill in all required information, then submit it to the land manager. The DNR Notification form and land manager information can be obtained at: http://www.wi-geocaching.com/hiding

• City of Madison Parks: If you are placing a cache in a City of Madison park, permission must be obtained from from the City of Madison parks department prior to placing the cache. Please contact the WGA Madison parks liaison, Rhonda Veroeven (rveroeven <at> wi-geocaching <dot> com), for more information.

  Please include the following text on the cache page for caches hidden in City of Madison parks:

  Anyone wishing to place a cache in a city of Madison park must contact Rhonda Veroeven who will gain permission from Madison Parks representative. To contact Rhonda please email at rveroeven <at> wi-geocaching <dot> com or through WISearchers at GC dot com

  Geocaching activity is only allowed in general parklands in the City of Madison and Geocaching activity is prohibited at: Forest Hill Cemetery, Olbrich Garden, City of Madison conservation parks, Odana Golf Course, Monona Golf Course, Yahara Golf Course, Glenway Golf Course and areas with identified Indian Mounds.

  All geocachers will be respectful of all public parkland. No digging or penetration of ground surface will be permitted. Trees, shrubs and plants will not be disturbed or altered at any time.

  Questions related to access, policies, regulation and protocol regarding geocaching in the City of Madison parks will be submitted to WGA liasion R. Veroeven who will report directly to James Weisnstock, Parks Operation Supervisor.

• Dane County Parks: Dane County has a geocaching policy in place that requires geocachers to fill out a permission form before placing a cache. Cachers also pay a $10 fee for an annual agreement to place a cache. In order to receive permission you need to contact the Dane County Parks office (608-242-4576 or dane-parks@co.dane.wi.us).