2023 National Technical Report: Socioeconomic Research of National Park Service Visitors: Report on 2023 Data Collection
Otak, Inc., RRC Associates, University of Montana, GAIA Environmental Consulting. 2024. 2023 National Technical Report: Socioeconomic Research of National Park Service Visitors: Report on 2023 Data Collection. National Park Service. Fort Collins, Colorado
A strong mandate and need for socioeconomic monitoring have been expressed in the National Park Service (NPS) strategic goals for science, in statements by NPS leadership, and in various official reports. Since such monitoring began in 2022, the NPS has conducted visitor surveys at 24 parks per year across the United States and associated territories. On the ground, the study uses a two-step survey methodology to capture a representative sample of park visitors during the peak season of each respective park unit. This process includes (1) an on-site intercept survey conducted via tablet, and (2) a post-trip survey (completed either by mail-back or online) for more in-depth trip details. The types of data collected include visitor demographics, trip characteristics/planning, and experience evaluations. Results are organized by these two survey instruments and are aimed to assist park managers in understanding current utilization and perception of park resources, assessing operations and potential issues, and facilitating communication and decision-making processes within The NPS unit and between it and its local partners and stakeholders.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Otak, Inc.; RRC Associates; University of Montana; GAIA Environmental Consulting
- Date of Issue
- 2024-10
- Publisher
- National Park Service
- Units
- NRSS
- Keywords
- demographics, SEM, Socioeconomic monitoring, trip characteristics, visitor surveys