Paul & Babe's GeoHunt
Paul & Babe’s GeoHunt is a summer-long geocaching event that features unique sites along the 54-mile Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway driving route. The sport of geocaching involves hiding camouflage containers (which are called caches) so that people can look for and find the containers using GPS technology. Once they find the containers, participants collect special cards (found in the caches/containers). After collecting a series of 10 cards, participants can earn a GeoCoin. A total of 30 caches are hidden throughout the driving route, released through a staggered schedule through the summer.
This project offers a new and unique way to teach people about the history of the Byway region. By involving the green or silent recreational sport of geocaching, participants will be drawn to the historical facts in ways not traditionally offered. Many geocachers are families with young children, and often include mutliple generations in the act of the hunt.
Specific goals of this project include:
• provide a new and unique way for people to learn about the history and the lore of the Byway region
• spark interest in visiting the historical sites and museums along and around the Byway route
• motivate travel, overnight stays and multiple visits to the Byway region
• increase overall awareness of tand interest in he Byway and it's Association
• engage new volunteers and businesses along the Byway in a new and unique way
In the spring of 2010, a small committee met to plan the project. Volunteers were fond to help with the cache hiding. Representatives from the area historical societies were involved in selecting historical facts for use on the collector cards, as well as determining good locations for caches to be placed. Supporting sponsors were sought and markeing materials were developed.
(b) Statewide Historic and Cultural Grants. (i) $2,250,000 in 2010 and $4,500,000 in 2011 are appropriated for history programs and projects operated or conducted by or through local, county, regional or other historical or cultural organizations; or for activities to preserve significant historic and cultural resources. Funds are to be distributed through a competitive grants process. The Minnesota Historical Society shall administer these funds using established grants mechanisms, and with assistance from the advisory committee created herein.