Case Study: Using acoustical data to manage for solitude in wilderness areas

Briggs, Jessica; Rinella, Jessie; Marin, Lelaina

The preservation of natural sounds and quiet is essential for protecting wilderness quality and character. Incorporating soundscape management into wilderness management plans is vital for maintaining the solitude and primitive character of wilderness areas. As development outside park areas increases, so does the potential of human-caused noise to impact wilderness areas within the parks. Lake Mead National Recreation Area is one of the first national parks to incorporate acoustical data into a wilderness management plan. Monitoring sites were set up in three wilderness areas over a two-year period to collect audio recordings, sound levels, and meteorological data. On-site listening was conducted to identify sound sources at the monitoring sites. Park personnel found that the monitored wilderness areas were quieter than other areas in the park, but there was still noticeable human-caused noise, primarily aircraft overflights. By including acoustical data in the wilderness management plan, the park has been able to reference the quietness of the wilderness areas while working with other agencies concerning potential noise-producing projects adjacent to park wilderness. The baseline data collected in the wilderness units will also assist in developing a soundscape management plan. A characterization of the natural acoustical environment will enable park management to improve overall ecosystem health and visitor experience by incorporating acoustical data into management plans and educating park visitors.

Case Study: Using acoustical data to manage for solitude in wilderness areas

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