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Abstract
A rapid assessment method for inexpensively obtaining representative samples of place-specific visitor numbers and perceptions of visit quality was tested on Niobrara National Scenic River (NSR). Similar tests have been done on national forest areas in Indiana and Illinois. The data are used in meetings focusing on visitor capacity management. The rapid assessment visitor inventory (RAVI) method utilizes four-day sampling periods (two weekend days plus two weekdays) within heavy use seasons. Counts of visitors by types are recorded along with one-page surveys focusing on visitors' perceptions of conditions. RAVI studies are conducted at travel pattern concentration sites, places where most visitors tend to visit or pass by. A four-day sampling period at Niobrara NSR was thought to be representative of weekend/weekday use within a two-month summer use season. Additional sampling is planned for following years to monitor specific numbers and changes occurring. Then decisions can be made about maintaining different levels of use in similar places and providing information for visitor choices.
Parent Publication
Citation
Chilman, Kenneth; Schneider, Stuart; Wadzinski, Les. 2007. A recreation quality rapid assessment method for visitor capacity management. In: Burns, R.; Robinson, K., comps. Proceedings of the 2006 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium; 2006 April 9-11; Bolton Landing, NY. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-14. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 290-294.
