Contribution for Improvement of Visitor Monitoring in the Tatra National Park

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to contribute to improving visitor monitoring in the Tatra National Park, based on the results obtained from the pilot use of a counting device. A direct data collection method was applied in order to monitor the number of visits. In the study period from May 31, 2008, to November 20, 2008, a counting device with pyroelectric detector (Eco Twin) registered the exact number of tourists entering the specified sector of the hiking trail that leads from the crossing near Žabí brook to Rysy peak. During the total observation period, the system registered 96 366 traverses. As a result, an average daily volume of visits and a total volume of visits for the selected trail segment were identified. Temporal changes in the intensity of recreational use on a weekly and daily basis were observed for the period from June to October 2008 as well as the acceptance by visitors of seasonal trail closure. The current number of visitors was related to the specified carrying capacity of the trail and the impact of weather on the number of visitors was also taken into account. For the next period, we suggested further lines of investigation. Extension and improvement of research in this area is urgently needed because the amount and dynamics of visits to the Tatra mountains has changed in recent years. This might have an impact on the environment of the national park and biosphere reserve. The management will have to take this fact into account.