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- Info
The wildland/urban interface: Site observations and management implications
| Author: |
Chavez, D.J. |
| Date: |
1991 |
| Periodical: |
In: Poster Session: Society of American Foresters National Convention; 1991 August 3-7; San Francisco, CA. |
| Abstract: |
Wildland recreation areas in two southern California National Forests have been observed for patterns of visitor behavior. The sites have concentrated dispersed usage, are water-based recreation areas, and attract culturally diverse urban visitors. Researchers examined patterns of visitor use, land ethics, and social interactions. Average group size was 8, most visitors spoke English or Spanish, and many brought a lot of equipment. Visitors showed a preference for sites next to the water and for shaded areas. Activity preferences were for hiking, picnicking, and visiting with others. Passive depreciative behaviors were seen but active depreciative behaviors were not. There was evidence of past depreciative behaviors, some of which was gang-related. Most of the interaction between natural resource managers and the public were law enforcement related. Cost effective management techniques to reduce depreciative behaviors (including suggestions for signing and litter control) and improve social interactions are discussed. |
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