Recreational Trampling Effects on Six Habitat Types in Western Montana

摘要

The study examined the response of six vegetation types in western Montana to experimental trampling. All of the forest types showed a curvilinear relationship between amount of trampling and loss of vegetation cover, loss of plant species, and soil compaction. A grassland was more resistant to vegetation loss. These results can be used to evaluate the likely effects of different use levels on campsites and to identify the most durable locations for campsites.