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Activity Number:
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230
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Type:
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Topic Contributed
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Date/Time:
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Monday, August 3, 2009 : 2:00 PM to 3:50 PM
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Sponsor:
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Section on Statistical Consulting
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| Abstract - #304910 |
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Title:
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A Comparative Statistical Analysis for Forest Service Trail Tread Width
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Author(s):
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Laura J. Freeman*+
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Companies:
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Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
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Address:
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403 Hutcheson Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24061,
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Keywords:
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Consulting ; Environmental Impact ; Forest Service ; Maximum Likelihood ; Bayesian
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Abstract:
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Forest managers for the National Forest Service face an ongoing management issue of balancing recreation in national parks and forests while preserving the natural environment. Trail-usage in national parks and forests is continually on the rise. By reducing off-trail usage forest managers can encourage recreation in national parks and forests while minimizing the impacts of recreation on the environment. This study looks at how forest managers can affect trail tread width through strategic trail planning and implementation. Three separate statistical approaches are used to determine the affects of trail placement and maintenance on trail tread width. The three statistical approaches are a classical maximum likelihood approach, a Bayesian approach and a Bayes Linear approach. A comparative analysis between the three statistical approaches is provided.
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