Monitoring inter-group encounters in wilderness - Introduction

Many managers face the challenge or monitoring rates of visitor encounters in wilderness. This study (1) provides estimates of encounter rates through use of several monitoring methods, (2) determines the relationship between the various measures of encounter rates, and (3) determines the relationsh ip between various indirect predictors of encounter rates and actual encoun ter rates. Exit surveys, trip diaries, wilderness ranger observations trained observer s, mechanical counters, trailhead count observations, and parking lot vehic le counts were used to develop better understanding of the relationship bet ween these various monitoring methods. The monitoring methods were tested a t Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington. Encounter rates differed dramatically from weekdays to weekend days at high -use places studied. Estimates of encounter rates also varied substantially across methods used. Rather than conclude what method is best, this report seeks to help the manager decide which method is most appropriate for use in a particular wilderness, given the issues being addressed. It should als o help alleviate some of the problems managers have in prescribing monitori ng systems, by forcing more precise definition of indicators.