Ground cover changes resulting from low-level camping stress on a remote site

R. E. Leonard; J. M. McBride; P. W. Conkling; J. L. McMahon

doi:10.2737/NE-RP-530

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Ground cover changes resulting from low-level camping stress on a remote site

Informally Refereed

Authors:

R. E. Leonard, J. M. McBride, P. W. Conkling, J. L. McMahon

Year:

1983

Type:

Research Paper

Station:

Northern Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2737/NE-RP-530

Source:

Res. Pap. NE-530. Broomall, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiement Station. 4p.

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Abstract

This study reports the effects of low-level camping stress on vegetation in a remote site. South Big Garden Island in Penobscot Bay, Maine, was studied because (1) it had no prior recreational use; thus, comprehensive base line data could be obtained; and (2) the exact number of campers could be monitored throughout the study period. The continuous line-intercept method based on a single vegetation transect line was developed to monitor vegetation and ground cover changes over a 2-year-period. The low-level use (an average of 50 campers/year) that was recorded did not significantly reduce the total vegetation cover but did have an effect on species composition.

Keywords

camping, low impact, vegetation impacts, trampling

Citation

Leonard, R. E.; McBride, J. M.; Conkling, P. W.; McMahon, J. L. 1983. Ground cover changes resulting from low-level camping stress on a remote site. Res. Pap. NE-530. Broomall, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiement Station. 4p.