Managers\u27 Perceptions of Crowding in New York State Parks

As visitation to New York State Parks continues to rise, it is important to evaluate potential crowding impacts on visitor experiences and the natural resources. This study examines the managers’ perceptions of crowding in New York State Parks. Using a semi-structured interview format, twenty managers were interviewed by telephone to determine their definition of crowding, what potential impacts exist in their parks, what strategies are currently in place to address any potential impacts, and their perceptions of the effectiveness of these strategies. Most managers expressed concern about visitor accommodation, park facilities and staffing resources. Additionally, impacts on the natural resources and visitor experiences were identified in several parks. The impacts identified were seemingly exacerbated by the current staffing and budgetary trends among New York’s Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation, requiring managers to adapt and develop their own strategies to best combat some of the issues identified