Defining and managing the quality of wilderness recreation experiences

Abstract

There is a substantial body of scientific literature on defining and managing the quality of wilderness experiences. Two conceptual frameworks derived from this literature—carrying capacity and the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS)—suggest that wilderness recreation experiences can be defined through indicators and standards of quality, and that wilderness recreation should be managed to ensure that standards of quality are sustained over time. This paper briefly describes the conceptual frameworks of carrying capacity and ROS; reviews the growing literature on wilderness-related indicators and standards of quality, and wilderness recreation management; and suggests a number of issues that warrant further research and management attention.

Parent Publication

• Wilderness science in a time of change conference-Volume 4: Wilderness visitors, experiences, and visitor management; 1999 May 23-27; Missoula, MT

Citation

Manning, Robert E.; Lime, David W. 2000. Defining and managing the quality of wilderness recreation experiences. In: Cole, David N.; McCool, Stephen F.; Borrie, William T.; O’Loughlin, Jennifer, comps. 2000. Wilderness science in a time of change conference-Volume 4: Wilderness visitors, experiences, and visitor management; 1999 May 23–27; Missoula, MT. Proceedings RMRS-P-15-VOL-4. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 13-52