Recreational Uses of Cal Poly Land Research Findings Concerning Carrying Capacity

Research on Natural Resource Factors Summary: Almost all resource impacts occur under light level of recreational use; and additional levels of use causes relatively additional impact Secondary effects of impact are often more important than primary impacts (e.g. soil compaction--increased runoff, soil erosion, sedimentation in streams, stressed cold water fish) In assessing ecological impact with recreation it can be difficult to determine the most appropriate indicator of the impact Many ecological impacts are subject to some degree of management control (e.g. location of trails, mandatory campsites, etc.) Most studies have been on impacts to soils and vegetation with little data on impacts to air, water, wildlife Research on Social Factors Summary: It is important to distinguish the concept of crowding from the more simple concept of amount of use--intensive use does not have same perception as crowding; crowding variable--lots at the beach, few in the wilderness--a perception Crowding norms are a function of more than just the number of other users. Factors affecting include: motivation underlying recreation participation, preferences and expectations of recreators There appears to be considerable consensus on what constitutes crowding among like-minded groups, but not necessarily between groups or across the population as a whole In assessing the effects of crowding, researchers and managers have difficulty selecting an appropriate criterion measure. Number of encounters between groups seems to be the best measure of perceived encounters and not density of recreators. Recreator satisfaction is a complex, multifaceted concept. If want information about crowding have directed focused studies in this topical area. Research on Managerial Factors Summary: Many techniques are available for maintaining outdoor recreational areas within their carrying capacities (broad strategies include: reduce the amount of use, provide additional opportunities in other places, modify the character of the use, harden the site). Management actions are often categorized either direct or indirect. Direct focuses of recreator behavior with little choice--rules/regs., mandatory. Indirect focuses attempts to influence recreator behavior with information/education, facility development, user fees, etc. Research to date indicates that a variety of management actions can be effective in implementing carrying capacity. Criteria for evaluation include: effectiveness in influencing visitor behavior, acceptability to recreators, practicality. Very few studies concerning assessment of management actions and their effectiveness.

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