The influence of place attachment on campers' evaluations of ecological impacts due to recreation use

Impacts to ecosystem functions, structures, and aesthetics resulting from recreational use may influence the quality of outdoor recreation experiences as well as the integrity of recreation resources. Effectively managing outdoor recreation resources requires understanding impacts in addition to recreationists' perceptions of impacted conditions, particularly in high-use popular outdoor recreation areas. However, emotional bonds or feelings of attachment to a particular place may influence the relationship between impact and perception. Previous literature indicates mixed findings regarding how feelings of attachment to a place (i.e., place attachment) influence outdoor recreationists' evaluations of impacts to ecosystem elements and processes. To contribute to this literature, this study used normative theory and visual methods to examine the relationship between place attachment and evaluations of recreation-based ecological impacts at campsites in Utah's Wasatch National Forest. An onsite survey administered to 234 campers indicated that place dependence did not influence campers' evaluations of impacts, but as campers' place identity increased, their acceptance of ecological impacts born from recreational use also increased. These findings suggest that the type and level of place attachment may have a differential influence on campers' evaluations of ecological impacts and site conditions.Management implicationsThis study only considers the use during peak seasons (May - August) and did not investigate all possible user groups and their different norms and thresholds for ecological impacts (e.g. people engaging in hunting, fishing, ATV, motorcycle or RV recreation).These considerations aside, based on results of this study, there are some possible management strategies for consideration.
- First, managers might consider keeping current dispersed campsites available for recreationists to prevent further impact to other areas that would may become impacted if recreationists were denied campsites due to recovery or closure.
- Secondly, recognizing that campers have moderate to high levels of place attachment, managers might consider guaranteeing consistent maintenance, clean up, and education to sustain recreationist expectations and to prevent displacement. Finally, educational practices to inform visitors of low-impact camping techniques may provide an avenue to prevent further impact.