NFST Map and Route Analysis 4

Question 1

A UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) grid coordinate is useful in the field primarily because it:

Accepted Answer

Provides a simple metric grid making distance calculations straightforward

Answer

UTM uses a metric grid system that makes measuring distances simple — every 1,000 meters is a 1 km grid square.

Question 2

When orienting a topographic map to the terrain using a compass, you should:

Accepted Answer

Rotate the map until the north arrow on the map aligns with magnetic north, accounting for declination

Answer

Orienting the map means aligning its north arrow with true north (accounting for magnetic declination) so map features match the terrain around you.

Question 3

A 'relief map' or shaded relief map uses shadows and highlights to show:

Accepted Answer

Three-dimensional terrain shape and elevation changes

Answer

Shaded relief maps simulate sunlight on terrain to create a 3D visual effect, making hills, valleys, and ridges intuitively obvious.

Question 4

In forest service navigation, 'terrain association' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Identifying your location by matching surrounding terrain features to map features

Answer

Terrain association is the skill of comparing visible landscape features (ridges, drainages, peaks) directly to map symbols to determine your location.

Question 5

Which of the following conditions would most likely cause a GPS receiver to give inaccurate position readings in a forested or canyon environment?

Accepted Answer

Poor satellite geometry or signal blockage by terrain and tree canopy

Answer

Dense tree canopy and surrounding terrain can block or reflect GPS satellite signals, degrading position accuracy.

NFST Test Practice Test

NFST Test Practice Test

NFST Map and Route Analysis 4