The Evaluation of Litter Behavior Modification in a River Environment

Abstract

Behavioral modification techniques were evaluated by observing litter collection behavior of commercial rafting groups. A verbal appeal and role modeling comprised a treatment intended to prompt litter pickup. Designated pieces of trash were planted at the first night's campsite. The number of litter pieces retrieved by treatment and control groups was deemed statistically significant at the .10 alpha level. Treatment groups left campsites cleaner; therefore, results support the hypothesis that verbal appeal and role modeling by river guides can be effective litter control techniques.