Analyzing yachting patterns in the Biesbosch National Park using GIS technology

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.technovation.2009.05.015 Byline: Martin Landre Keywords: Yachting patterns; Leisure routes; Yacht density; Space syntax Abstract: National parks with large flows of visitors have to manage these flows carefully. Methods of data collection and analysis can be of help to support decision making. The case of the Biesbosch National Park is used to find innovative ways to figure flows of yachts, being the most important component of water traffic, and to create a model that allows the estimation of changes in yachting patterns resulting from policy measures. Recent policies oriented at building additional waterways, nature development areas and recreational concentrations in the park to manage the demands of recreation and nature conservation offer a good opportunity to apply this model. With a geographical information system (GIS), data obtained from aerial photographs and satellite images can be analyzed. The method of space syntax is used to determine and visualize characteristics of the network of leisure routes in the park and to evaluate impacts resulting from expected changes in the network that accompany the restructuring of waterways. Author Affiliation: Centre for Sustainable Tourism and Transport, NHTV Breda University of Applied Sciences, PO Box 3917, 4800 DX Breda, The Netherlands