Geography ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 8-2022

Abstract

As participation in outdoor recreation is growing in the U.S., a dilemma is presented for conservation planners and land area managers who must manage the increasing demand for recreation while simultaneously working to protect species. Rock climbers and other outdoor recreationalists have asserted that a relationship exists between recreation and the conservation of public lands. However, mounting evidence suggests that rock climbing continues to cause a multitude of negative impacts to ecosystems. Here, I investigate the extent to which land management practices allow for rock climbing and conservation to coexist, and how it is that well developed plans protect ecologically sensitive areas. A review of current literature, a dissection of climbing management plans and their contents, as well as a comparative case study analysis of three management plans from popular National Parks. Many environmental impacts on outdoor climbing areas can be lessened when climbing management plans are implemented, shared, and enforced. Conservation efforts are necessary for the outdoor rock-climbing community to coexist with the ecosystems that allow them to climb in the first place.

Degree Name

Geography

Department Name

Geography

Level of Degree

Masters

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Benjamin Warner

Second Committee Member

Dr. Maria Lane

Third Committee Member

Bjorn Fredrickson

Document Type

Thesis

Keywords

Rock climbing, Conservation, National Parks

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