The influence of use-related, environmental, and managerial factors on soil loss from recreational trails (original) (raw)
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Trail impact monitoring in Rocky Mountain National Park, USA
This paper examines impacts of increased visita-tion leading to human trampling of vegetation and soil along several trails in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) to understand how abiotic factors and level of use can influence trail conditions. RMNP is one of the most visited national parks in the USA, with 3.3 million visitors in 2012 across 1075 km 2 and 571 km of hiking trails. 95 % of the park is designated wilderness, making the balance between preservation and visitor use challenging. This research involves the application of trail condition assessments to 56 km of trails to determine prevailing factors and what, if any, connection between them exist. The study looked at a variety of inventory and impact indicators and standards to determine their importance and to develop a baseline condition of trails. The data can be used for future comparison and evaluation of development trends. We found that trail widening (mean trail width 88.9 cm) and soil loss (cross-sectional area 172.7 cm 2) are the most visible effects of trail degradation. Further statistical analyses of data identified the role and influence of various factors (e.g., use level and topography). Insights into the influence of these factors can lead to the selection of appropriate management measures to avoid or minimize negative consequences from increased visitation.
International Journal of Sociology
Purpose: Hiking, climbing and walking have the potential to disturb wildlife and affect soil in a number of ways including trampling, littering, changing animal habitat or degrading soil through use of undesignated trail and trailside management. The aim of the study is to analyze the effectiveness of the management measures undertaken to mitigate the impact of recreational activities on vegetation, soil, water and wild game. Methodology: The descriptive survey research design was used. Out of the three hundred and twenty nine (329) questionnaires administered, two hundred and sixty three 263(79.9%) responded to the questionnaires by completely filling and returning them. Descriptive statistics that included frequencies and percentages were used to organize and summarize the data. Tables and bar charts were drawn to present the collected data. Findings: Proactive planning, change design of facilities and improved maintenance were the most used methods of limiting recreation impact. ...