Laserfiche WebLink
A <br />ABSTRACT <br />The quality of river recreation opportunities is dependent upon instream flows, but <br />research exploring this relationship has been limited. Increasing concern over the <br />impacts from out -of- stream water uses has led to interest in more rigorous efforts. <br />The handbook provides a "road map" to the ideas and methods that are the basis of <br />effective studies. The handbook presents a conceptual framework; a study process; <br />approaches used to study the effect of flows on resource conditions; and approaches <br />used to evaluate flows or conditions. Methods for evaluating flows is the central <br />focus; advantages, disadvantages, and keys to the successful use of several methods <br />are discussed. Several methods only provide preliminary assessments, while others <br />such as survey -based methods or predictive modeling methods provide more <br />comprehensive and defensible information. Examples of relationships between flow <br />and important recreation attributes are also provided, including those for boatability, <br />whitewater, rate of float travel, fishability, swimmability, and aesthetics. Other <br />chapters discuss ways to explore trade -offs among the flow needs for different <br />recreation opportunities and flow protection issues and strategies. Appendices contain <br />example survey questions as well as a list of requirements for future studies. <br />Key words: recreation quality, instream flow, river management, water allocation, <br />social science methods, experience definition. <br />The views presented in this handbook may not necessarily represent any policy or position of <br />the National Park Service or the Department of Interior. The use of trade names in this <br />publication does not constitute an official endorsement or approval by the U.S. Department of <br />Interior or the National Park Service. <br />