Understanding the Effects of Human Recreation on Wildlife from Fieldwork to Management Decisions

Abstract

Interest in outdoor recreation is increasing across natural landscapes, benefiting people and communities, but posing challenges for wildlife and land managers. This thesis examines recreation and wildlife management through field-based research on wildlife responses to recreation and an exploration of how scientific research informs management decisions. In Chapter 1, we examined the impacts of recreation on wildlife using camera trap data from 113 stations across eight Washington State Parks in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) — critical ecological zones where recreation-wildlife dynamics remain understudied. Using dynamic occupancy models and temporal activity analyses, we found that recreation influences species detection probabilities and activity patterns. Raccoons, bobcats, and cougars were more likely to be detected at stations with high recreation, while black bears, elk, black-tailed deer, and coyotes had higher detection probabilities at stations with low recreation. Temporal shifts were evident among coyotes and deer, which had significant differences in their activity patterns, showing increased diurnal activity in off-trail areas. To understand how field-based studies inform recreation and wildlife management, Chapter 2 examines the role of science in decision-making. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 14 land managers from local, state, and federal agencies in Washington, using thematic analysis grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior. While managers expressed positive attitudes toward science-based decision-making, structural constraints, resource limitations, and communication gaps were barriers to research integration. In contrast, partnerships and accessible science were key facilitators, with tribal and local community pressures shaping management priorities. As outdoor recreation expands, maintaining spatial and temporal refuges for wildlife and strengthening the integration of science into management decisions will be essential for balancing wildlife conservation with sustainable recreation access.