Advancing the Social Science of Leave No Trace: Examining Attitudes, Efficacy, Intentions and Behavior

Leave No Trace is the most prevalent minimum-impact visitor education program used in parks and protected areas in the U.S. The overarching intent of the program is to educate outdoor enthusiasts about the nature of their recreation-related impact, and to teach techniques for minimizing impact, so they may make informed decisions about their recreation behaviors. Visitor perceptions (i.e., attitudes, beliefs, awareness and knowledge) of Leave No Trace can lead to either appropriate or inappropriate behaviors, depending on understanding and perspective. Understanding visitor perceptions of Leave No Trace is critical to craft effective educational messages that work to reduce negative social and ecological impacts in parks and protected areas. While there has been steady progression in the social science contributions to Leave No Trace research, the literature base is still rather scant with many knowledge gaps and questions that merit further exploration. The studies included in this dissertation help to fill these gaps.;The purpose of this dissertation is to advance our understanding of the efficacy of Leave No Trace messaging and educational programs. This dissertation manuscript derives from three independent studies that were designed in direct collaboration with National Park Service and public land managers, as well as staff from the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. This innovative research agenda serves to inform empirically grounded responses to various outdoor recreation management challenges.;The first manuscript examines attitudes, knowledge, and perceptions of Leave No Trace-related bouldering practices, specifically comparing and contrasting indoor and outdoor learners, as well as levels of specialization. On-site survey data indicated that indoor learners and those of novice ability reported less knowledge of Leave No Trace and generally held attitudes and perceptions less congruent with Leave No Trace recommendations.;The second manuscript examines the influences of a youth-focused Leave No Trace educational program on participants' attitudes, behaviors, and nature connectedness. The study employed an experimental, equivalent control-group design and included both survey and direct observation measures. Results indicated differences between control and treatment groups on attitude and behavior measures. Those who participated in the educational program reported positive attitude change above and beyond those in the control. They were also less likely to keep objects they found in nature.;The third study tested the effectiveness of a range of indirect and direct management approaches, including Leave No Trace messaging, to mitigate undesignated trail use on open space lands. The study applied a theory of planned behavior framework, utilized Leave No Trace messaging, and employed a method to pair survey and direct observation data. Results indicated the combined direct (barrier) and indirect (messaging) intervention was the most effective at mitigating undesignated trail use.