BARRIER BEACH IMPACT MANAGEMENT PLANNING: FINDINGS FROM THREE LOCATIONS IN MASSACHUSETTS

Abstract

This paper integrates the findings from social and ecological impact studies at three barrier beaches in Massachusetts to demonstrate the value of an inter-disciplinary approach to resource allocation and visitor management. Fragile barrier beaches have a high demand for human recreation, but a low tolerance for human impact. Because barrier beaches also serve as nesting habitat for rare birds (piping plovers and least terns), balancing preservation and recreation requires management plans based on both social and ecological impact studies. The social data were obtained from on-site surveys using self-administered questionnaires. Information regarding visitor behaviours, beliefs and attitudes was collected from three distinct groups: those who parked their car in a parking lot and walked to the beach, those who drove 4-wheel drive vehicles on the beach, and those who landed boats on the beach. The ecological data consisted of dune vegetation and bird surveys in recreation areas and those protected from human impact. Results were used to develop management techniques to mitigate impact and educate visitors.