City welcomes geocache enthusiasts

It's new and it's a hobby that is quickly gaining popularity. Geocaching is picking up hundreds of new enthusiasts in the United States every day, and it's come to Dexter. For the first time ever, the treasure hunt-style activity was discussed this week by the Dexter Board of Aldermen.

Geocaching is a real-world outdoor treasure hunting game. Players try to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, using GPS-enabled devices and then share their experiences online.

Some of those players, according to several city officials, are now wanting to bring their game into Dexter. Individuals within the county are already involved in the hobby with capsules located at Frenchman's Springs, near WalMart, Hagy Cemetery and American Outdoors.

Alderman Jerry Corder said at the meeting that he was contacted regarding placing tiny capsules at the Heritage House and the depot.

"It seems like this is getting really popular," Corder said.

He said that the capsules are approximately the size of a 35 mm. film canister and are hidden in natural places like a hole or fork in a tree.

Parks Director Lawson Metcalf said he was contacted by the same individual regarding using the city parks. While initially skeptical, after some research and explanation, he granted them permission. He stipulated that they not be on or around playground equipment or any man-made structure.

"I really think it's harmless," Metcalf said. "It really amazes me what people dream up to do."

Corder said that members of the Dexter Heritage House Association were still considering the possibility, but did have concerns. He said he was unsure when they would make a decision.

"Basically, they want to hide these capsules," Metcalf said. "They won't be digging any holes."

As for the depot, Angie Williamson, Director of Tourism and Marketing, said that several individuals have already utilized the newly-renovated facility as a geocache location.

Aldermen even suggested some other locations that might be good sites such as Keller Public Library.

Following the discussion, City Administrator Mark Stidham mentioned the city's current use of GPS.

"We're going to go to GPS on everything we own," he said, noting that fire hydrants and manholes are already utilizing GPS systems.

He added that it makes them easier to find when there's a problem. To give a worker a code of where to go is far more precise and saves time over sending them to a region, Stidham said.