Computer Simulation Modeling for Recreation Management: A Study on Carriage Road Use in Acadia National Park, Maine,...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Recreation Management
• Computer Simulation

Background:

• Increased visitation to outdoor recreation areas raises concerns about resource limits and carrying capacity.
• Visitor travel patterns on complex trail networks pose challenges for traditional observation and data collection methods.
• Accurate assessment of visitor experience and resource protection (VERP) is crucial for park management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the utility of computer simulation for modeling visitor travel patterns in outdoor recreation settings.
• To build and validate a dynamic simulation model for visitor travel on Acadia National Park's carriage roads.
• To integrate simulation outputs into the National Park Service's VERP planning process.

Main Methods:

• Developed a dynamic computer simulation model using empirical data on travel routes and speeds.
• Generated simulated recreation days to assess persons-per-viewscape (PPV) conditions.
• Conducted goodness-of-fit validity tests to ensure model accuracy.

Main Results:

• Current visitor use levels at Acadia National Park do not violate proposed PPV quality standards.
• The simulation model accurately represents actual visitor travel patterns.
• Projected PPV conditions under increased use scenarios and for different park areas were identified.

Conclusions:

• Computer simulation modeling is a valuable tool for estimating current carrying capacity.
• Simulation can effectively predict future conditions and inform adaptive recreation management strategies.
• This approach supports ongoing research and enhances resource protection in parks.