The team at DJ&A conducted this multi-year, multi-phase program of work with the U.S. National Park Service to address transportation and visitor use management issues in the Nisqually Corridor of Mount Rainier National Park. In the first phase, the team collected onsite data and developed a computer simulation model to estimate parking- and crowding-related capacities. The model was programmed to analyze relationships among inbound vehicle traffic volumes at the park entrance, parking conditions at popular destinations, and crowding on popular trails.
In a second phase, the team analyzed mobile device data to evaluate park visitors’ regional and parkwide travel patterns. The team synthesized results into a report to document methods, current park conditions, and recommendations regarding the utility of mobile device data for studies in national parks and protected areas.
In a third phase, the team worked with the park’s core team to use the simulation model to analyze visitor use management scenarios, including reservation systems and shuttle system alternatives. The team also developed a long-term monitoring plan, with indicators, thresholds, and detailed monitoring protocols. Results of all phases of this work were used to develop a formal visitor use management plan.
Key Services Provided
- Onsite study design and data collection
- Statistical and user capacity analysis
- Passive mobile data analysis
- Computer simulation modeling
- Visitor use management framework applications
- Technical recommendations report
- Monitoring plans and protocols development
- Agency capacity-building
