Visitor Impact and Monitor Program (VIMP) Transects: Bryce Canyon National Park
Petersen S, Bastian H, Shakespeare K, Farnham M. 1996. Visitor Impact and Monitor Program (VIMP) Transects: Bryce Canyon National Park. Bryce Canyon National Park. Bryce Canyon, UT
Transects were established in the summer of 1994 and monitored again in 1995 and 1996 for long term monitoring of visitor impacts to areas of high use in Bryce Canyon National Park. 1994-1995 monitoring data indicated that barren areas were increasing at a rate of approximately 5% per year. As a result of these findings, fences were constructed around walkways at Sunset, Farview, and Inspiration to prevent visitors from wandering into vegetated areas. 1994 protocol included the establishment of eight 100m transects, each divided into twenty 5m plots were established in high use areas. Two additional transects receiving little or no impact were established as a control. In 1996, 11 transects were monitored. Researchers measured % social trails (crossing transect), % grass, % forb, % shrub, % litter, % organics, % bare, and soil penetrometer measurements. Results for 1996 are provided. During the 1996 surveys, new observers surveyed the transects; slides were taken of the transects; and transects were mapped using GPS units. Transects will continue to be monitored annually to detect trends in impacts.
- Type
- Unpublished Report
- Authors
- Petersen, Steven; Bastian, Henry; Shakespeare, Kevin; Farnham, Michelle
- Date of Issue
- 1996
- Publisher
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Units
- BRCA
- Keywords
- Management, Monitoring, Soil, Transects, vimp, Visitor Impacts