Outdoor notes

A Global Positioning System is an accurate tool that can help you navigate through backcountry terrain or even down city streets. Join a pair of REI navigation experts as they discuss this fascinating piece of technology. The presentations will cover basic GPS functions such as determining latitude and longitude, programming routes and recording travel. Angie Zoulek will conduct her GPS workshop on Tuesday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. at the REI store at 3285 East and 3300 South. Dan Stites will conduct his workshop on Thursday, Jan. 25 at 7 p.m. in the Sandy City REI store at 10600 South and 230 West in the northwest corner of the South Towne Center. For more information visit www.rei.com and click on the stores and events link.

WASATCH CITIZEN SERIES

The Utah Nordic Alliance is sponsoring the Wasatch Citizens Series beginning Saturday, Jan. 27 at Mountain Dell. The series consists of five events held each year at cross country ski areas along the Wasatch Front and Back. Two classical technique and three free technique races are included to assist local athletes in preparing for national and international competition. In addition to 16 age and gender categories, the series includes novice classes to encourage beginners to get involved in cross country skiing. Expert classes are provided for the more serious racers. Awards are given to the top three finishers in each category. Points are awarded to all race finishers, and the top three skiers in each age group receive prizes at the end of the season. Visit www.utahnordic.com for more information.

SNOWMOBILE SAFETY WEEK

Snowmobile Safety Week is being observed through the weekend throughout Utah.

"We want everyone to ride safely and know the laws and rules before they go," said Ann Evans, off-highway vehicle education specialist. She encourages riders to check avalanche, trail and weather conditions, share itineraries with family and friends and carry emergency supplies for their vehicles and themselves.

Utah law requires children ages eight to 15 to complete the Utah State Parks and Recreation OHV education course before operating a snowmobile on public lands, roads or trails. Those 16 or older must have a valid Utah driver's license or a safety certificate. Also, all youth under age 18 are required to wear helmets approved by the Department of Transportation. Adults, too, are strongly encouraged to wear helmets.

For registration materials, grooming reports and avalanche conditions, call the OHV

AVALANCHE RESCUE CLINIC

More than 30 teams of avalanche rescue dogs and their handlers will be at Snowbird today to participate in rescue drills. The training includes victim search drills, beacon searches, helicopter training and classroom sessions.

Wasatch Backcountry Rescue hosts the seminar, which includes instructors from the Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association. The clinic includes dogs and handlers from Utah, Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, Montana, Idaho, California and Canada.