Year of Award

2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

Master of Science (MS)

Degree Name

Recreation Management

Department or School/College

Department of Society and Conservation

Committee Chair

Dr. William Rice

Committee Co-chair

Dr. Jennifer Thomsen

Commitee Members

Dr. Melissa Weddell, Dr. Jeremy Sage

Keywords

Conflict, recreation behaviors, snowmobilers, organizational membership, Attitudes, Western Montana

Subject Categories

Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between conflict and recreation behaviors among snowmobilers at western Montana snowmobile access sites (WMSAS) and investigates whether organizational membership influences the types of conflict experienced and attitudes towards appropriate recreation behaviors. Data were collected through an intercept survey, and responses from 250 snowmobilers were analyzed. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to examine the research questions.

The findings suggest that snowmobilers at WMSAS experienced minimal conflict, with interpersonal conflict related to "hearing others" being the most observed. However, this conflict was not necessarily perceived as a problem by the majority of respondents. Snowmobilers demonstrated an aligned set of attitudes towards appropriate recreation behaviors, indicating the effectiveness of education and messaging regarding responsible snowmobiling practices.

Organizational membership did not significantly influence the types of conflict experienced by snowmobilers. Nonmembers tended to perceive more problems with behaviors, while members reported lower levels of conflict typologies. Skill level differences were also identified, highlighting the importance of considering this factor when understanding conflict among recreation snowmobilers.

Managers should focus on indirect management strategies, such as promoting TreadLightly! guidelines and providing educational materials, to enhance snowmobilers' understanding of appropriate behaviors. Collaborating with snowmobile clubs and organizations can facilitate the dissemination of messaging and encourage responsible recreation practices. Future research should explore the impact of these strategies on actual behavior and consider a broader range of variables to gain a more comprehensive understanding of snowmobilers' experiences and attitudes.

In conclusion, this study sheds light on the conflict dynamics and attitudes of snowmobilers in the WMSAS. It provides valuable insights for managers to develop effective strategies for promoting responsible recreation and mitigating potential conflicts in snowmobiling areas.

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