An Overview of Computer Simulation Modeling for Recreation Carrying Capacity Management

摘要

Because of the number of visits to outdoor recreation areas bas increased dramatically in recent years, planners and managers of public lands face the challenge of protecting resources and providing high quality visitor experiences. This article presents an overview of modeling efforts of computer simulation for recreation carrying capacity that provides an historical perspective. Then the main models based on WUTS, Extend, RBSim and TSBS are described to illustrate the applications of different models. The modeling options, data input requirements, and useful model outputs are provided to guide the models incorporated into recreation planning and management process. Finally, based on the information reviewed, the relationship of computer simulation modeling and recreation carrying capacity is outlined. The future development and the main application of simulation modeling for recreation planning and management are disscussed. The utility of computer simulation modeling will be greatly enhanced with further work in software development and recreation carrying capacity research.