BLM-(WO), Social Science Research: Recreation Visitor Satisfaction Survey

Since 1999 Bureau of Land Management (BLM or Bureau) has been conducting visitor satisfaction surveys in all eleven western states, except Hawaii. These surveys are meant to gauge visitor experience at BLM sites. Information collect is voluntary, anonymous and confidential and has always been compiled by an independent researcher. For almost two decades the same primary research has assisted BLM. The last two year from Washington State University (WSU) and before that from the Universtiy of survey instrument, create the site specific surveys, send them to sites selected by BLM. BLM uses this data Results Act (GPRA) and information regarding visitors satisfaction with value for fees paid. This survey also gives BLM site managers vital information on visitor satisfaction with facilities, interpretation and education programs and materials, road /trail maintenance, staff service and general recreation management. Objective: BLM is looking for assistance with social science study in the form of an annual recreation visitor satisfaction survey. Through this assistance agreement, the BLM wants to provide an opportunity for a cooperator to develop its academic social science research program, providing participants with hands-on opportunities to work in this field and allowing them to apply theoretical concepts in a practical, real-world setting.