Experience and management of recreational impact on the ground – a study among visitors and managers

During the summer of 1999 visitors were interviewed along two important scenic roads in Norway. In a subsequent study managers in all Norwegian counties were asked some of the same questions. Respondents were asked to evaluate a series of 12 photos of trails and paths with varying degrees of recreation related impacts, and a list of 12 potential management actions concerning minimising or repairing impacts on the ground. The results show significant differences between the two groups in their evaluations of photos showing comprehensive impacts and the use of board walks: The managers have a lower level of tolerance towards impact on the ground, and the visitors are more in favour of using board walks. Almost all of the proposed management actions were also rated significantly different, but the two groups are still quite consistent in their overall rating patterns: Actions concerning information of visitors or shielding the resource are favoured; using fees is unacceptable.