Simplicity in the registration form probably is also a key to higher response 

 rates. The registration form should be short and clear. The bare minimum of essential 

 information is all that should be asked for. More detailed information can be obtained 

 when and where needed using inexpensive mail surveys. Much of the information that 

 might be desired, such as route followed, campsites used, activities engaged in, fish 

 caught, or game shot can only be accurately obtained after the trip has been completed. 

 More is lost by driving down registration rates with excessive demands for detail 

 than this detail is worth. 



Registration Systems 



IVhatever form the ultimate sampling model might take, a registration system seems 

 worthwhile as one of the ingredients for wilderness use estimation. It offers better 

 use figures than crude estimates and intuition might provide. Registration information 

 provides detailed information about the forest user, and provides lower bounds for all 

 variables of interest. Registration information can be expected to provide needed 

 insurance if it develops after field sampling that the prediction equations prove to be 

 no longer valid because of changed visitor-use patterns, registration response, or for 

 other reasons. Self-registration also has a number of other advantages besides providing 

 information to managers. It provides a chance to inform visitors of wilderness rules 

 and regulations. It could be a valuable key to the control or redistribution of use 

 within an area. It could prove useful in emergencies. A good registration system 

 could convey to visitors an impression that the managing agency has a serious, profes- 

 sional concern for the wilderness resource and for the visitors. 



Registration data can be of direct value for wilderness research as well as 

 providing a source of sample lists of group leaders for mail questionnaires. 



There is universal agreement on the need for improved wilderness management. Good 

 estimates of wilderness use and a better understanding of wilderness users are essential 

 for better management. Therefore, it appears highly desirable that wilderness managers 

 move toward a uniform, comprehensive registration system for wilderness visitors. In 

 addition, continuing effort to improve sampling techniques for obtaining accurate and 

 inexpensive wilderness use estimates is clearly warranted. 



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