Interactive Website

My idea is a re-hash of my web app/site that I proposed in my blog during Week 6. I've actually started taking the steps to possibly making it a reality!

The site would be mostly informational in nature, it would contain hunting and fishing spots all over the country. It would also link with Google Maps and Google Earth so users could upload coordinates of spots that people should check out. It would also allow users to download the GPS coordinates so they can get to these areas. Users would also be able to post updates and recommendations in regards to gear, weather and ground conditions. Hunting or fishing guides and lodges as well as hotels and rental shops in the area could advertise and allow you book online either through my site or by clicking on the link and visting each site individually. This would also connect the user to sites such as Bass Pro Shops or Cabelas in order to order gear online. THe site could also pot reatime information from to major manufacturers in order to obtain information on new products or safety recalls.

However, the most important part of the site would let users view the different state laws and safety regulatons in regards to hunting, fishing, boating, and gun ownersip and transportation. Along with rules and regulations postings, this would also link you to each states' website and would allow you to easily view and purchase hunting and fishing licenses in each state. It would also have a section to link to sites such as the NRA or GOAL (Gun Owners Action League) which would allow users to become members of those organizations or simply use the sites for tips and safety information. Training sites and groups could also advertise and sessions could be booked online. Hunting, Shooting and Fishing clubs in each state could also be listed to provide information or a user could apply ot become a member.

I've also added another section which would make this an even more interactive webite. Ther would be a FAQ section as well as blogs and chats that would be update in real time. These sections would allo users to post up to the minute reviews, news and conditions. But most importantly, the site would have a section where you could get answers to your questions while you are in the field or on the boat. You could use a web app for an iPhone or Android phone or have a laptop with you. Post your question and have it answered by a professional. For example, I just caught a fish and brought him to the boat. But I think I'm real close to the Canadian border, I know the boat drifted a little with the current, and I'm not sure if I caught the fish in the US or Canada and I only have a New York fishing license (this is a real situation faced by many people fishing up on the St. Lawrence River in New York; me included) You could ask the question and send your GPS coordinates to the site. In seconds you would have a response from a game warden or the like telling you if the fish has been caught illegally or not. Or something like, I'm not sure if the plant I just touched is poison oak or sumac. You could send a photo in with the question and be totally relieved that the plant is just a fern or something alot less itchy!!! But most importantly, you would be able to send a distress call and park rangers, police or the Coast Guard would be able to reach your position quickly.

I know there is alot that needs to be done to make this site a reality but I think I might give it a try!!! I think that this website could be very useful to those who enjoy the outdoors as much as I do.