The Use of Microcomputers for Park Trail Information Dissemination

Authors

  • Michael G. Huffman
  • Daniel R. Williams

Keywords:

decision aids, decision theory, microcomputers, national parks, use redistribution, trails

Abstract

The development and testing of a computer program designed to disseminate information to trail users at Rocky Mountain National Park is described. The potential benefits from such a system include providing useful information to park visitors about different trails aiding park management by redistributing trail use away from overused trails to lesser used trails. The program is developed in the context of decision theory and communication principles. A field experiment compared the computer decision aid to a brochure and found both to increase selection of targeted trails from 17 percent with no information provided to 38 percent with the brochure, and 60 percent with the computer.?

Published

1987-01-04

Issue

Section

Regular Papers