The challenges and related strategies of planning for wilderness experiences

Abstract

Planning is where science, public interests and management of wilderness areas come together. Unfortunately, science and information specifically supporting wilderness experiences, if any exists, is often perceived by managers as subjective, value laden, and hard to defend. This can sometimes lead to the tough decisions about providing high quality wilderness experiences being "kicked down the road" for another time/manager. This paper outlines the challenges and related strategies of planning for wilderness experiences from the perspective of a National Park Service planner. These challenges and strategies relate to the need for sufficient investment in understanding wilderness experiences, and the thoughtful integration of this knowledge in planning and decision-making processes.

Parent Publication

• Wilderness visitor experiences: Progress in research and management; 2011 April 4-7; Missoula, MT

Citation

Cahill, Kerri. 2012. The challenges and related strategies of planning for wilderness experiences. In: Cole, David N., comp. Wilderness visitor experiences: Progress in research and management; 2011 April 4-7; Missoula, MT. Proc. RMRS-P-66. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station p. 149-151.