| Shorelines are sensitive landscapes, and face increasing development pressures. Natural systems integrity is a major issue in future development. Though rarely investigated, the preferences and satisfactions of landscape users must also be considered. This study is an evaluation of shoreline landscape response based on (1) ecological impacts associated with cluster housing, and (2) desirable leisure activities.;A video-based photo-questionnaire was used to represent different levels of landscape intervention across three zones of the shoreline transect. Study participants, 404 property owners of the Lake Michigan shoreline, rated these scenes in terms of preference and also indicated their level of enjoyment for 30 listed leisure activities.;The landscape preference data revealed very consistent responses to each of three shoreline transect zones as a function of management strategy. In general, high preference was associated with high naturalism, while reconstructed sites received the lowest ratings. Several other landscape dimensions also played a role in preference-content (water, vegetation, built elements and their arrangements), the built to nature balance, and the informational concepts of understanding and exploration.;Analysis of activity ratings revealed multidimensional response to leisure options, including: (1) Pursuit of Solitude, (2) Family and Friends, (3) Nature Observation, (4) Group Games, and (5) Spectator Play. Salient aspects of these factors include personal and interpersonal renewal, degree of social contact, mental restoration, as well as the physiological benefits of recreational activity.;These findings have implications for future shoreline development. Though planners and developers typically focus on specialized facilities for recreational activities, this study suggests that contact with nature and control over the degree of social contact are more important to leisure participants. Future planning of shoreline residential settings should acknowledge the psychological benefits of naturalistic surroundings and optimize access to a variety of outdoor settings. Development that enhances the health of the landscape also appears to benefit the mental health of shoreline users. |
