Cave Tourism in Kentucky: Visitor Knowledge of Ecology and Sustainable Cave Tourism
Presenter Hometown
Corbin, KY
Major
Recreation and Park Administration
Department
Recreation and Park Administration
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Michael J. Bradley
Mentor Department
Recreation and Park Administration
Recommended Citation
Steele, Kaleb L. and Bradley, Michael J., "Cave Tourism in Kentucky: Visitor Knowledge of Ecology and Sustainable Cave Tourism" (2016). University Presentation Showcase Event. 48.
https://encompass.eku.edu/swps/2016/undergraduate/48
Abstract
This research was conducted to investigate the influence state park facilitated education programs, such as interpretation, has on cave visitor knowledge of bat populations and habitat. This research was completed to help popular caving destinations identify areas where visitor knowledge and behaviors can be or are changed during or after the cave visit. Such changes may help preserve bat populations, bat ecosystems, and prevent the spread of white nose syndrome. In order to investigate these variables, researchers used surveys at Carter Caves from different individuals before and after an interpretive cave tour. The results of this study highlight increased knowledge regarding bats and white nose syndrome, however, visitor preferred management solutions were not significantly different between visitors that had or had not participated in an interpretive cave tour. Future management options discussed include increased interpretation, closing specific caves for tourism, and managing cave visitation numbers.
Presentation format
Poster
Poster Number
090
Cave Tourism in Kentucky: Visitor Knowledge of Ecology and Sustainable Cave Tourism
This research was conducted to investigate the influence state park facilitated education programs, such as interpretation, has on cave visitor knowledge of bat populations and habitat. This research was completed to help popular caving destinations identify areas where visitor knowledge and behaviors can be or are changed during or after the cave visit. Such changes may help preserve bat populations, bat ecosystems, and prevent the spread of white nose syndrome. In order to investigate these variables, researchers used surveys at Carter Caves from different individuals before and after an interpretive cave tour. The results of this study highlight increased knowledge regarding bats and white nose syndrome, however, visitor preferred management solutions were not significantly different between visitors that had or had not participated in an interpretive cave tour. Future management options discussed include increased interpretation, closing specific caves for tourism, and managing cave visitation numbers.
