Attitudes and Behaviors Regarding Visitor-Control Measures in Fra·gile Environments: Implications for Recreation Management

Authors

  • Wendy Z. Hultsman
  • John T. Hultsman

Keywords:

Recreation, visitor-control measures, envirorunental impact.

Abstract

This study explores the attitudes and behaviors of recreation participants related to envirorunentally harmful behavior in an urban-proximate, envirornmentally fragile recreation area. Also examined were recreationists' reactions to various visitor-control measures. Chi-square analyses indicated that individuals with higher levels of education were more knowledgeable about the potential for envirorunental impact than persons with less education(p<.02), and thatolderrecreationists were more aware of this damage potential than younger ones (p<.0002). Descriptive analyses were conducted to compare findings with the results of previous research and suggested that 1) perceptions of the need for direct enforcement of behavior increased in the interim between the previous study and the current investigation, 2) positive attitudes toward the development of recreational services and facilities increased, and 3) visitor control measures may have both positive and negative effects on envirorunental impact. It was concluded that the fmdings have implications for both theory and practice, that contextual circumstances must be considered in the development of appropriate visitor-control strategies, and that "target" populations may need to be identified for management action. Suggestions for further research were provided to evaluate methods for effective mediation of recreation impact in fragile envirornments.?

Published

1989-07-04

Issue

Section

Regular Papers