The Impacts of External Development on the Economic and Aesthetic Values of Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Abstract

Theodore Roosevelt National Park (THRO) is a unique part of the National Park system in that it represents a mixed grass prairie eco-region. At pulloffs and integral vistas in THRO, views of the landscape in this badland setting are sweeping and open offering a long view. Such vistas have become increasingly impacted by man-made or man-caused features on the landscape outside the park but visible from within its boundaries. These features include gas and oil field structures, roads, power lines, communication towers, large vehicles, dust and smoke. Additional external development and activity is planned and park managers are in need of information that can help them determine how park values, and resources are being affected. To do this also requires that information be obtained about visitor characteristics, preferences, satisfaction, and expenditures that are in need of being updated.