Document Type

Thesis

Date of Degree Completion

Fall 2014

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Resource Management

Committee Chair

Kenneth Cohen

Second Committee Member

Steven Hackenberger

Third Committee Member

Jacqueline Beidl

Abstract

Best management practices for whitewater recreationists visiting the Tieton River Corridor were identified by integrating carrying capacity, visitor perceptions of their experience and land managers' regulations. Indicators of bare soil measurements, vehicle parking capacity and crowding were utilized to formulate ecological, physical and social carrying capacities of the study area in relation to whitewater recreationists. One hundred forty-eight participants responded to onsite questionnaires regarding perceptions on crowding, the study area, and their experience of visiting the Tieton River Corridor. Forest Service policy was examined and applied to the study area to identify areas exceeding standards. An intervention tool incorporating persuasive communication was utilized to align Forest Service standards and desired conditions with whitewater recreationists' preferences. Recommendations for management practices were made with low-budget principles in mind.

Comments

This thesis has been digitized and made available as part of the University’s ongoing preservation and access initiatives. Copyright is retained by the original author. The University has made a good faith effort to review this work for copyright and privacy concerns prior to digitization. If you are the author or a rights holder and have questions, concerns or wish to request removal, please contact ScholarWorks@cwu.edu.

Download

Share

COinS