Visitor attitudes towards fire and wind disturbances in wilderness

Abstract

This study examines visitor attitudes across the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness regarding the effects of natural disturbances on visitor planning and wilderness conditions. Visitors were intercepted at entry points and permit distribution locations during 2007. Results suggest that respondents were aware of recent wind and fire disturbances. Few respondents reported that these events had affected trip plans. Evidence of natural disturbances was evaluated as desirable or indifferent conditions in wilderness. Further investigation of these events related to travel patterns and perceptions may help understand their impacts on visitor use and behavior.

Citation

Dvorak, Robert G.; Small, Erin D. 2011. Visitor attitudes toward fire and wind disturbances in wilderness. International Journal of Wilderness. 21(2): 27-31, 36.