Using a VHF positioning system to map a native Indian reserve

This paper discusses the use of Accutrak system's Agtrak 2020, a VHF radio based precise positioning and navigation system, to map the ThunderChild Native Indian Reserve in Saskatchewan, Canada. The VHF positioning system operates at the bottom of the VHF spectrum at 44 MHz, and has the advantage of bending and penetrating obstacles as compared to higher frequencies. This paper also highlights the principles of operation of the Accutrak system and the technique of obtaining accurate measurements using the phase of the carrier. The system was exceptionally useful in mapping roads and irregular shaped paths. It was less efficient in mapping structures and houses due to the antenna structure being large.