Monitoring social indicators in the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness 1988-1998

Abstract

Since its inception as a wilderness planning and management tool almost 15 years ago, the Limits of Acceptable Change (LAC) process has stressed the importance of monitoring. Monitoring social conditions is critical to ensure that quality visitor experiences are maintained. Ten years of data collected from monitoring three river corridor-related social indicators in the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness in Southwestern Montana are analyzed. Results indicate there is very little direct relationship between use levels of floaters and hikers and the ability to meet the LAC social standards. The data also showed that the standards for most of the indicators monitored, are not being met on weekends.

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

Ashor, Joe L. 2000. Monitoring social indicators in the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness 1988-1998. 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. 229-231