Masters Theses

Date of Award

12-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Forestry

Major Professor

Ryan L. Sharp

Committee Members

Neelam C. Poudyal, Jack Swab

Abstract

This thesis evaluates the applicability of anonymized cell phone mobility data in understanding visitor use patterns, tested along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail (LECL). By combining on-site visitor surveys with third-party provider location data from six key Missouri and Nebraska sites, the study examines the accuracy, benefits, and limitations of using mobility data in predicting long-distance, multi-site recreational site visitor use. Analysis includes quantifying stops within defined polygons for July 2024, comparing these results to survey data, and identifying discrepancies and consistencies. Results show low consistency in the ability of social mobility data to be used as a practical tool for management. Findings contribute to recreation management by illustrating how emerging data sources can complement traditional visitor monitoring methods, while also discussing representativeness and methodological considerations for the application of cell phone mobility data. This work strives to advance approaches to public land management through data-driven decision-making where managers act. Chapter 1 traces the evolution of visitation monitoring on U.S. public lands and situates the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail (LECL) as a resource that challenges site-centric methods. Chapter 2 presents an empirical case study integrating on-site surveys with commercially sourced MDD across six LECL locations in Missouri and Nebraska. Chapter 3 synthesizes methodological lessons and proposes a practical playbook to move MDD from promise to practice.

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