2023 Socioeconomic Research of Mojave National Preserve: Report on 2023 Data Collection

Otak Inc.; RRC Associates Inc.; University of Montana; GAIA Environmental Consulting LLC

A strong mandate and need for socioeconomic monitoring have been expressed in the National Park Service (NPS) strategic goals for science, in statements by the NPS leadership, and in various official reports. This mandate resulted in a pilot socioeconomic monitoring study conducted in 2015/2016 at a sample of park units across the United States. This pilot study was used to inform a 2022 nationwide visitor survey conducted at 24 NPS units across the United States. Mojave National Preserve (Mojave) joined this effort by surveying its visitors in 2023, along with 24 other NPS units. This 2023 study at Mojave uses a multi-method survey methodology to capture a representative sample of visitor information, characteristics, and behavior: (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 (including spending), and experience evaluations. Results are organized by these two survey instruments and are intended to assist park managers in understanding current utilization and perception of park resources, operations, and potential issues, as well as to facilitate communication and decision-making processes within the park and between the park and its local partners and stakeholders. This report can serve as a resource for park managers, local partners, and stakeholders, facilitating informed decision-making, resource allocation, and effective communication strategies.