Spatial Analysis of Recreational Impacts in Mount Rainier National Park
Project ID: J8W07090020
Federal Agency: National Park Service
Partner Institution: University of Washington
Fiscal Year: 2009
Initial Funding: $7,000
Total Funding: $7,000
Project Type: Technical Assistance
Project Disciplines: Interdisciplinary
National Park: Mount Rainier National Park
Principal Investigator: Moskal, Monika
Agreement Technical Representative: Rochefort, Regina
Abstract: Recreational use of national parks presents a complex challenge for park managers and resource specialists. Parks are directed to regulate the use of national parks while preserving natural processes and ecosystems for future generations in such a manner that leaves them unimpaired. The goal of this project is to investigate the use of spatial statistics to evaluate the geospatial influence of social trails and campsites on ecosystems within Mount Rainier National Park (MORA). By evaluating these indicators within the context of the ecological landscape, resource managers at MORA will be able to develop a more cost-effective index of ecological integrity as “early warning” signs of unacceptable ecosystem change.
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