Research needs for a better understanding of wilderness visitor experiences

Stephen F. McCool; Chad P. Dawson

Treesearch

Research needs for a better understanding of wilderness visitor experiences

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Stephen F. McCool, Chad P. Dawson

Year:

2012

Type:

Proceedings

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

Source:

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. 188-192.

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Abstract

What information is needed to facilitate enhanced management of visitor experiences in wilderness? The final session of the workshop comprised a facilitated process with the 20 participants to identify research and information needs to support wilderness visitor experience management. The Wilderness Act and the previous presentations and discussions not only provided a context for this process but also a foundation of knowledge and managerial experience. Forty-four topics were identified in an initial roundtable listing. Participants then clarified topics and ranked them using a simple voting process. Six topics were identified as holding highest priority for research to support management of high quality visitor experiences within wilderness.

Parent Publication

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

Keywords

management frameworks, recreation management, research methods, solitude, technology, visitor density, wilderness experience

Citation

McCool, Stephen F.; Dawson, Chad P. 2012. Research needs for a better understanding of wilderness visitor 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. 188-192.