Visitor management in the countryside

Definition of Visitor Management

Visitor management in the countryside aims to balance the needs of the visitors, the environment, and the local communities.
It ensures the sustainable use of natural resources for recreational activities.
The purpose of visitor management is to minimise the negative impacts of tourism, whilst enhancing positive impacts.

Distinction between Countryside and Urban Visitors

Visitors in the countryside engage in nature-based activities such as bird watching, hiking, countryside walks, and cycling.
Urban visitors focus more on cultural and historical aspects, which might include museums, art galleries and shopping.
Thus, the types of management required in these two areas are different, specifically in terms of transport, facilities, and waste management.

Importance of Visitor Management

Helps maintain a high quality of visitor experience by preventing overcrowding and resource degradation.
Assists in the protection and conservation of natural and cultural resources.
Heightens awareness, respect, and appreciation for nature amongst visitors.
Pursues the accommodation for economic benefits with minimal negative impacts.
Aims to reduce tension between visitors and local populace.

Practices of Visitor Management

Implementing zoning - assigning areas for specific activities to control visitor flow and minimise habitat disruption.
Conducting visitor survey - to understand their needs, wants and behaviour, and to gauge their satisfaction level.
Setting up information centres, signages, and brochures to provide relevant and clear information.
Maintaining paths, trails, and facilities used by visitors to reduce the environmental impact.
Enforcing visitation rules and regulations, such as waste disposal, noise restriction, and wildlife disturbance.
Implementing limits on visitor numbers if needed to prevent overcrowding.
Providing training courses about responsible behaviours and conduct in countryside areas.

Challenges in Visitor Management

Balancing the economic benefit from tourism and conservation of the environment.
Determining appropriate access limits without affecting the visitor’s satisfaction.
Dealing with different expectations and behaviours of visitors.
Ensuring visitor compliance with behaviour rules and regulations.
Addressing potential conflicts between visitors and local communities.
Coping with the impact of varying seasonality in visitor numbers.