Seeking a scientific approach to backcountry management in Yellowstone National Park

Abstract

Three criteria are used to assess how Yellowstone’s wilderness managers incorporate science into management: preciousness, vulnerability and responsiveness to management. Four observations are proposed. First, where scientists lead, managers will follow. Scientists that leave the best trail will be followed most closely. Second, managers need to refocus efforts on landscape-scale impacts, and they need scientists to give them the techniques to do this. Third, managers need to refocus efforts on impacts to visitors. Finally, managers need to refocus efforts to assess cumulative effects; however, scientist must first develop usable, accurate models.

Parent Publication

• Wilderness science in a time of change conference-Volume 5: Wilderness ecosystems, threats, and management; 1999 May 23-27; Missoula, MT

Citation

Olliff, S. Thomas; Murphy, Sue Consolo. 2000. Seeking a scientific approach to backcountry management in Yellowstone National Park. In: Cole, David N.; McCool, Stephen F.; Borrie, William T.; O’Loughlin, Jennifer, comps. 2000. Wilderness science in a time of change conference-Volume 5: Wilderness ecosystems, threats, and management; 1999 May 23–27; Missoula, MT. Proceedings RMRS-P-15-VOL-5. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 348-353