Elizabeth Perry, Xiao Xiao

The Transportation Recreation Opportunity Spectrum as a spatial and quantitative metric: results of a preliminary investigation at Yellowstone National Park

Introduction

The transportation recreation opportunity spectrum as a spatial and quantitative metric: results of a preliminary investigation at yellowstone national park. Explore the Transportation Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (T-ROS) as a spatial, quantitative metric in Yellowstone National Park for park planning & visitor experience.

Abstract

Transportation is both a means to access recreation and a form of recreation in itself. Because diverse audiences have differential transportation access and experiences, a spectrum of opportunities should be considered when planning for the provision of adequate, quality transportation options in park settings. In well visited parks with defined facilities, services, and roadways for motor vehicle traffic, use of the Transportation Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (T-ROS) should take into account a variety of indicators to set standards for the visitor experience, managerial contributions, and resource impacts. To explore the utility of the T-ROS framework, and specifically examine the use of three potential indicators (i.e., number of modes, view of scenery, and slope of rode) within a composite index, we used a geospatial analysis in Yellowstone National Park, USA. Results center on areas of differential T-ROS value and what this may mean for park management and extension of the framework. Strengths, limitations, and opportunities for further investigation are also detailed.

Review

This paper presents a timely and important preliminary investigation into the application of the Transportation Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (T-ROS) as a spatial and quantitative metric within park settings. The authors adeptly highlight the dual role of transportation – both as a means of access and a recreational activity itself – underscoring the necessity of a nuanced approach to planning and provision in well-visited areas. The proposed framework aims to inform the development of adequate and quality transportation options, considering diverse visitor experiences, managerial objectives, and resource impacts, thereby offering a valuable tool for park management. A significant strength of this work lies in its innovative adaptation of the established Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) concept to the specific domain of transportation, transforming it into a measurable and spatially explicit metric. The methodology, employing geospatial analysis in Yellowstone National Park to explore the utility of T-ROS through a composite index of three indicators (number of modes, view of scenery, and slope of road), is well-conceived and offers a replicable approach. By focusing on areas of differential T-ROS value, the study promises to yield practical insights for tailoring transportation strategies and extending the framework's utility in real-world park management scenarios. While the abstract points to a "preliminary investigation," suggesting inherent limitations, the paper's explicit mention of detailing its own strengths, limitations, and opportunities for further investigation is commendable. Future enhancements could explore the integration of additional visitor-centric data, such as visitor preferences or perceived quality of experience, to further validate and refine the chosen indicators. Expanding the scope to include a broader range of ecological or social indicators, beyond the initial three, might also enhance the framework's holistic applicability and robustness across diverse park types and management challenges.

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