But by looking at this map, I discovered some great parks. The biggest and best were about 15 miles away at the southern edge of the county. By looking at the map I could see where they were, how big they were, how many there were and that they bordered a river. That visual information was enough to suggest that these would be worth a special visit. Sure enough, when I got there, the parks were large and unspoiled, the forests were deep and mature, and they were quiet and full of wildlife attracted to the river.
Maps are a part of environmental education.
Cartography, the art of map-making, can provide a greater awareness and appreciation of our world and its many natural treasures.