Centennial Honors College
Western Illinois University
Undergraduate Research Day 2012
Podium Presentation
Visitor Impact Management Case Study: Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge
Sarah Nowicki and Anthony Houlahan
Faculty Mentor: Robert Porter
Recreation, Park & Tourism Administration
The purpose this research was to assess recreational visitor impacts on Chautauqua
Wildlife Refuge, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wildlife Refuge near Havava,
IL. The main focus of the research was to evaluate and make recommendations on
environmental/social impacts, user accessibility, and general natural resources
conservation practices. The project consisted of mapping visitor impacts using
geographic information systems, multiple site examinations, meeting with the on-site
conservation officer, and researching articles and maps. Findings and conclusions
include discussion of the efforts that the Chautauqua staff undertakes in preserving land
for the refuge’s main purpose, protection of migratory birds and waterfowl. The wildlife
refuge managers also managed many areas to be compliant with the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA), thus allowing diverse populations to have access to the benefits
of outdoor recreation at the refuge. Managers minimized visitor impacts while controlling
water levels in all flood pools (water entering from Illinois River), and regulating
hunting/fishing laws. One weakness of the refuge management arises from their lack of
funding. This lack of funding has resulted in poor control of invasive species. Refuges,
nature centers, and Forest Preserves offer the community a place to explore the living
world. Chautauqua Wildlife Refuge rises above the average wildlife management and
education/viewing experience to offer habitat for migrating water fowl, control flooding
while providing a sanctuary for the hiker, fisherman, or hunter to engage in healthy
outdoor recreational opportunities.