Preliminary Evaluation of Recreational Skills and Ethics Training Programs Occurring on Public Lands: The Leave No Trace Visitor Education Program
Powell RB, Wright BA, Vagias WM. 2008. Preliminary Evaluation of Recreational Skills and Ethics Training Programs Occurring on Public Lands: The Leave No Trace Visitor Education Program. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, Clemson University. Clemson, SC
This study was undertaken to examine the degree to which the LNT message has been diffused amongst NPS backcountry visitors and the effectiveness of the LNT backcountry visitor education program within three NPS Units; Cumberland Island National Seashore (CINS) Georgia, Glacier National Park (GNP) Montana, and Olympic National Park (ONP) Washington. In addition, this study developed, tested, and validated several new measures suitable for future investigations into the abovementioned phenomenon. Thus, this study provides both a baseline of understanding and the necessary foundation for the development of a larger scale research effort to fully assess the effectiveness of the LNT message promoted on public lands. Finally, this study aims to inform management decisions regarding the future direction of the LNT program and improve existing education tools to reach a broader segment of the recreating public and enhance both enjoyment and resource protection. Data were collected using a mail-back self-administered questionnaire following a modified Dillman (2007) procedure with multiple contacts (n=3). Overnight backcountry visitors were intercepted at ranger stations and addresses collected from those who consented to participate. In all, 1085 valid addresses were collected and each individual was mailed a survey. Seven-hundred and fifty five (755) questionnaires were returned providing a 69.6% response rate.