Episode
Ep. 206 - Curtis Copeland - How Digital Maps Are Reshaping Conservation in the Ozarks
- Podcast
- The Ozark Podcast
- Published
- Mar 4, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3795
- Processing state
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Summary
→ Join other Ozarkers on our Patreon - The Holler What if the map on your phone isn’t just showing you reality… but shaping it? In Part 2 with Curtis Copeland (GIS manager, cartographer, and co-host of Ozark Folk Chronicles) we dive deep into the hidden power behind maps. From OnX hunting layers and lidar data to property boundaries and Google Earth, this episode unpacks how digital mapping influences how we hunt, fish, build, conserve, and even define the Ozarks themselves. If you use trail cams, depth finders, AllTrails, or drop pins before a public land hunt, this conversation will completely change how you see the world. Curtis explains why maps are interpretive, not neutral, how data is gathered (from aerial lidar to crowdsourcing), and why companies like OnX depend on massive public and private datasets. We talk about mental maps, the Age of Discovery, political boundaries, bathymetry from fishing electronics, and how GIS can either expose fragile swimming holes or protect entire watersheds. This episode is about stewardship as much as technology, how better data can lead to better conservation in the Ozarks, if we use it wisely. Together with... Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks Prism Glass Co - Luxury residential glass and mirror installation Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure 00:00 Maps have an agenda 12:00 How software like OnX col…