Environmental Impact - Wildlife/Vegetation Effects

Boyle, S. A. & Samson, F.B. (1985). Effects of non-consumptive recreation on wildlife: A review. Wildlife Society Bulletin 13(2) 110-116.

Abstract

A literature review was conducted. 536 references ( restricted to those concerning terrestrial vertebrates of North America) were identified concerning effects of non-consumptive recreation on wildlife. Literature indicated that non-consumptive outdoor recreationists are creating increasing impacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat. Recreationists can affect wildlife through habitat alteration, disturbance, or direct mortality. Mechanized forms of recreation present the most serious potential impacts, but even the most casual intrusion by a person on foot may significantly affect vulnerable populations, and species vary in their sensitivity to disturbance. Researchers have begun to identify some mechanisms of human-wildlife interactions. Wildlife conservationists are challenged to identify recreational impacts on wildlife, establish priorities for management, and implement schemes to conserve wildlife resources while providing for the increasing use-demands of recreationists.

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