Assessment and management of wildland recreational disturbance [Chapter 29]

Abstract

Disturbance from wildland recreation is widespread, extending even to many remote and protected areas, and its effects have important ramifications for wildlife. Yet, many wildlife scientists and managers do not receive training to assess and manage this disturbance. Unlike many topics in this book, wildland recreation has not been a traditional subject of analysis or concern in wildlife curricula. Recreational activity and disturbance occurs in many natural areas near suburbs and cities, but wildlands typically are larger and more complex, provide more living space for wildlife, and are more likely to be managed by trained wildlife professionals. Thus, defining and characterizing wildland recreation, based on earlier literature (Flather and Cordell 1995, HaySmith and Hunt 1995. Hammitt and Cole 1998:3-5) and our experience, is where we begin.

Citation

Gutzwiller, Kevin J.; Cole, David N. 2005. Assessment and management of wildland recreational disturbance [Chapter 29]. In: Braun, C. E., ed. Techniques for wildlife investigations and management. Bethesda, MD: The Wildlife Society. p. 779-796.