The Indicator Performance Estimate (IPE) Approach to Defining Acceptable Conditions in Wilderness

Abstract

Using data from a study conducted in the Cranberry Wilderness area, this paper describes how the Importance-Performance approach can be used to prioritize wilderness indicators and determine how much change from the pristine is acceptable. The approach uses two key types of information: (1) indicator importance, or visitor opinion as to which wilderness indicators have the greatest influence on their experience, and; (2) management performance. Performance is determined by comparing actual conditions to visitor standards using the Indicator Performance Estimates (IPE) approach. The results can than be presented graphically on a four-quadrant matrix for straightforward interpretation.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the Symposium on Social Aspects and Recreation Research, February 19-22, 1992, Ontario, California

Citation

Hollenhorst, Steven; Stull-Gardner, Lisa. 1992. The Indicator Performance Estimate (IPE) Approach to Defining Acceptable Conditions in Wilderness. In: Chavez, Deborah J., technical coordinator. 1992. Proceedings of the Symposium on Social Aspects and Recreation Research, February 19-22, 1992, Ontario, California. Gen. Tech. Rep. PSW-GTR-132. Albany, CA: Pacific Southwest Research Station, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture; p. 48-49