Can visitor regulations enhance recreational experiences?

Regulations at recreation sites have been described as anathema to recreation itself. Many recent authors have suggested that managers use more light-handed techniques, such as information and education, before attempting regulatory and intrusive actions. This study of visitors to Glacier National Park in Montana, USA, during the fall bald eagle migration season demonstrates that, under certain conditions, recreationists will view regulations as a way to enhance the opportunity rather than detract from it. The results reinforce previous suggestions in the literature that managers carefully examine the objectives and consequences of regulations prior to their use.