2022 socioeconomic research of Capitol Reef National Park: Report on 2022 data collection

Abstract

A strong mandate and need for socioeconomic monitoring are expressed in the NPS strategic goals for science, in statements by the NPS leadership, and the report of the Second Century Commission. This mandate resulted in a pilot socioeconomic monitoring study in 2015/2016 at a sample of park units across the U.S; the current study uses outcomes from the first stage of the pilot program and progresses into a second stage of the pilot process at 24 NPS units across the United States. Capitol Reef National Park (Capitol Reef) was selected as one of these units. This report informs core issues of visitor use management and develops a deeper, contemporary understanding of who visits Capitol Reef and what they do during their visit. It uses a two-phased survey methodology to capture a representative sample of visitor information, characteristics, and behavior: (1) an on-site intercept survey conducted via tablet, and (2) a follow up (mail-back and/or online survey) for full trip details. The results are organized by these two phases and are aimed to assist park managers in understanding current utilization and perception of park resources, operations and potential issues, as well as facilitating communication and decision-making processes within the park and between the park and its local partners and stakeholders.