Map Resources
From Cyclopath
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[edit] Do not use external references
Do not use any paper map, online map, or any other external resource for reference, period. Do not copy street names; do not copy geometry; do not copy anything. Put away the map or close the window while you edit Cyclopath.
The problem is that by using another map for reference, you are creating a copy, and that will cause major copyright headaches. It's true that in the United States, governments can't copyright things, but the city/county/park map may have been produced by a private contractor.
We want to avoid the really nasty legal problems which could arise if it turns out someone's been copying other maps into Cyclopath. A legal quagmire is something that could sink Cyclopath.
[edit] What you can use
- The aerial photos included in Cyclopath.
- Your memory, eyes, ears, etc.
- Notes you make while on a ride.
- Maps you create yourself (e.g. GPS traces), provided they are not displayed on top of another map you did not create.
- Exceptions as listed in the next section.
[edit] Exceptions
There are a limited numbers of resources which are an exception to the "no external resources rule".
Keep in mind that the experience of cyclists on the ground is usually more up-to-date than external resources; use external resources only as an aid to your own knowledge.
Please do not add resources to this section; if you have a resource which you believe qualifies, put it in "Future Possibilities" below.
[edit] USGS National Map ("Seamless")
This system has a variety of layers, including scanned topographic maps. The web app can be quite clunky.
- Link: http://seamless.usgs.gov
- Why it's OK: This data is public domain; from http://seamless.usgs.gov/faq/general_faq.php#six: "The data from The National Map Seamless Server is public domain. There are no restrictions on data downloaded". Also, we have provided the requested disclaimer on our Thanks pages.
- Notes:
- Cyclopath data is often more up to date. If the two maps differ, don't assume that the USGS one is authoritative.
[edit] Future possibilities
It is possible that in the future Cyclopath may work out a procedure with map owners to allow their use as a reference. This list is a list of maps which seems promising in this regard.
Do not use these maps for reference (see above). This is just a list of contacts.
Feel free to add to this list. Many governments (federal, state, and local) produce maps which we can use; we will review and move the map up to "Exceptions" above if appropriate. You can make our job easier by providing specific links showing why you think it may be an exception and/or people to contact.
- 2007-08 Minnesota Official Highway Map (Ramsey Falls cover panel)
- Contact: Dennis M. Brott, Director, Geographic Information & Mapping Section, Minnesota Department of Transportation
- The Hennepin County Road & Bike Map.
- Contact: Ned Nelson, Senior Engineering Technician, Hennepin County Transportation Planning
- Maps prepared by the City of Blaine GIS Department
