Backcountry Encounter Norms: Theory, Method and Empirical Evidence

TLDR

Backcountry visitor impact studies increasingly rely on normative explanations. The study develops a conceptual framework to analyze the structural characteristics of norms in backcountry recreation. The framework defines three normative characteristics—range of tolerable contacts, intensity, and norm crystallization—and measures them quantitatively with Brule River data to demonstrate application. Empirical results show that, despite diverse recreation behaviors, normative consensus often emerges, highlighting the need for managers to define the desired experience and select a criterion group aligned with resource management goals.

Abstract

Efforts to understand the impacts resulting from visitors in backcountry settings have increasingly turned to normative explanations. This paper builds on earlier review articles by providing a conceptual framework for analyzing the structural characteristics of norms. Three normative characteristics—range of tolerable contacts, norms. intensity and norm crystallization—are identified and measured quantitatively using data from the Brule River to empirically illustrate the application of the model to a recreation setting. Findings from the Brule and a number of related studies reveal that despite a diversity of recreation behaviors and interests, some normative consensus can often be found. From a management perspective, these findings underscore the importance of defining the type of experience to be provided and deciding on a criterion group based on the definition of how the resource should be managed.