A Study Using Photo Methods to Evaluate Recreational Carrying Capacity on Penghu Islands, Taiwan

Ecotourism is the fastest growing industry in Taiwan. Outdoor activities have increased during the past few years. The number of people visiting national parks and other protected areas is growing rapidly. Park authorities manage national parks and protected areas in order to balance environmental conservation and recreational use. Many rules and regulations are used to restrict visitor activities. Enforcement is usually undertaken by park rangers. Such management efforts often reduce the freedom and enjoyment of the visitors. The recreational carrying capacity was developed for Chipei and Bird islands in Penghu for their sustainable use of resources. The objective of the study was to find the recreational carrying capacity of these two small islands and compare that to the governmental predictions. I used photo methods to develop the social carrying capacity and combine it with physical, economical, and ecological carrying capacity to calculate the recreational carrying capacity index. Results of the study showed that the recreational carrying capacity of these two small islands were 1250 and 210 people, respectively. They are on the tourism score of B and can be developed to tourism sites for nationals