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Information about the intensity, direction and degree of change of park users’ perceptions of protected areas (PAs) over time offers insights about their relevance to those visitors and can inform elements of good governance and management. The resident surveys data collected in 1992, 1998, 2005 and 2017 by Regional Parks of the Capital Regional District of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, show how imperfect longitudinal social science information helped park managers identify trends, patterns and key areas of public support, thus set robust and effective priorities, policies and strategies for the regional park system. Collecting data where all information relevant to a decision is known and available is often beyond the ability of practitioners. We offer insights on how to best use imperfect longitudinal social science data and help practitioners consider what is necessary to support sounds decision-making for PAs management and governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]