A comparison of visitors who contact the Forest Service with those who do not: A case study in Cave Creek Canyon, Arizona

Abstract

This study investigates characteristics and attitudes of users of Cave Creek Canyon (CCC), a U.S. Forest Service (USFS) recreation site in southeast Arizona, and compares those who contacted the USFS with those who did not. User attitudes and opinions were assessed in 1992 through roadside interviews and a mail survey (278 respondents). Twenty percent of respondents had contacted the USFS regarding CCC management. Contacters and non-contacters do not differ with regard to gender, age, education, or income. A significantly higher proportion of contacters are local residents. Both groups identified a biota-based activity as most important. Contacters visit CCC more frequently and are more likely to pursue nature study or scientific research. For 26 of the 31 attitudes and opinions questions, the majority of contacters agreed with the majority of non-contacters. These results suggest that opinions expressed by the vocal minority may reflect the opinions of the majority of users.