Analysis of Illegal Use and Suitability of Camping in Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness
Presentation Type
Oral and/or Visual Presentation
Presenter Major(s)
Natural Resource Management
Mentor Information
C. "Griff" Griffin, griffinc@gvsu.edu
Department
Biology
Location
Kirkhof Center 1104
Start Date
13-4-2011 11:30 AM
End Date
13-4-2011 12:00 PM
Keywords
Environment, Social Science
Abstract
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness (NDW) is, like many such areas, under constant threat of overuse. It is the only wilderness in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, which attaches to it an added pressure as well as value for those seeking primitive and pristine natural areas in its vicinity. This study will, using ArcGIS software to create overlays, evaluate which areas of NDW are receiving the highest use, analyze overall camping suitability, and determine the likelihood that a region will be subject to illegal activity. This analysis will help to show which areas should be most closely monitored and/or restored to maintain their value as wilderness.
Analysis of Illegal Use and Suitability of Camping in Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness
Kirkhof Center 1104
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness (NDW) is, like many such areas, under constant threat of overuse. It is the only wilderness in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, which attaches to it an added pressure as well as value for those seeking primitive and pristine natural areas in its vicinity. This study will, using ArcGIS software to create overlays, evaluate which areas of NDW are receiving the highest use, analyze overall camping suitability, and determine the likelihood that a region will be subject to illegal activity. This analysis will help to show which areas should be most closely monitored and/or restored to maintain their value as wilderness.