United States Department of Agriculture

Minnetonka Cave Interpretive Plan

Forest Service Caribou-Targhee National Forest

December 2016 APPROVAL

______Dennis Duehren Date District Ranger Montpelier Ranger District, Caribou-Targhee National Forest

______Kaye Orme Date Forest Recreation Program Manager Caribou-Targhee National Forest

______Carol Ryan Date Interpretation, Conservation Education, Tourism Program Manager USDA Forest Service, Intermountain Region CONTENTS BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE...... 4 Concessionaire Information...... 8 INTERPRETIVE STATEMENTS...... 9 Interpretive Goals...... 9 Interpretive Themes & Storylines ...... 9 Theme 1: Bats, Bat Health and White Nose Syndrome (WNS)...... Theme 2: Active Rocks, Fast Water, Geology in Motion...... Theme 3: Karst, Underground Water Transport ...... Theme 4: Growing Rocks Within Mountains, Geology Revealed, & Cave Conservat.. Theme 5: Early Government Work Project Creating a Visitor Experience ...... SITE CONDITIONS...... 16 Wayfinding & Regulatory Signs...... 16 Information & Interpretive Signs...... 16 Parking Area & Site...... 17 RECOMMENDATIONS...... 18 Wayfinding & Regulatory Signs...... 18 Kiosks...... 19 Site Structures...... 20 Parking & Traffic Flow...... 20 General...... 20 FS Branding & Quality Standards...... 21 Information & Interpretive Signs...... 22 Phase I...... 23 Phase II...... 24 Phase III...... 25 DESIGN TEMPLATE...... 27 INTERPRETIVE PANELS & PROGRAMS...... 29 COST ESTIMATES...... 31 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES...... 32 EVALUATION & MONITORING...... 35 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The Minnetonka Cave is located on the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Montpelier Ranger District. A reevaluation of the site and visitation needs was conducted with new site plans created in 2011 by of the Regional Office. Due to funding and priority constraints these plans have not yet been implemented. This site has been identified as a top regional funding priority once money is available.

A critical part of the Forest Service mission is to help people understand, appreciate, and use their national forests and make informed decisions that support the conservation of our natural and cultural heritage. Interpretation is one of the primary vehicles for driving this mission. An interpretive plan provides a framework for implementing a coordinated, unified interpretive approach and sets the direction for high quality visitor experiences. Cavern in Minnetonka Cave Interpretive themes are developed from the interpretive goals and objectives that are identified for the significant resources of a site. A central theme helps tie together the information and ideas that are presented to visitors. Themes are the plot to the movie, the moral of the story. They answer the question, “So what?” or “What’s the big deal?”

The theme provides the foundation for all presentations, no matter what media is used. Interpretive messages may be accomplished through signs, exhibits, visitor centers, audio/visual productions, publications, the Internet, and personal services, such as guided interpretive walks, hikes and or programs. Implementation of an interpretive plan is the responsibility of the managing agency. The agency also has the leeway to develop partnerships that can assist with implementing parts of the interpretive plan as determined mutually beneficial.

SITE DESCRIPTION, CHARACTERISTICS AND MANAGEMENT GOALS

The Cache National Forest is located astride the Wasatch Mountains in Minnetonka Cave Parking Lot southeastern Idaho and north central Utah. The Idaho portion of the Cache National Forest is located withing the parts of the Bear Lake, Franklin, and Caribou Counties and is administered by the Montpelier Ranger District, Caribou-Targhee National Forest; the Utah portion is administrated by the Uinta-Wasatch- Cache National Forest.

For the purposes of this plan, the Cache National Forest referred to is the portion in Idaho and administered by the Montpelier Ranger District. This area receives relatively heavy

Page 4 summer and shoulder season recreational use for several reasons; 1. Close proximity to the recreation draw of Bear Lake 2. Diverse recreational opportunities available 3. Proximity to the greater Wasatch Front Area (Salt Lake City, UT is approximately a 3 hour drive) and 4. Location along a major travel corridor to both Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Parks

The major summer and fall recreational activities include site seeing, camping, picnicking, fishing, horseback riding, hiking, motorized trail riding and hunting. Snow machining, cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing are popular winter activities.

Summer temperatures typically range between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit at night, just perfect for outdoor recreational activities. Summer months are usually dry, since most of the precipitation in the area occurs as snow in the winter months. Due to the elevation of the area and the dry air that dominates most of the summer, nights are cool and frost can occur anytime.

Minnetonka Cave is located within the St. Charles Canyon and is accessed by a paved forest road, No. 412. One of the main public access to Bear Lake is at North Beach which is just 3.5 miles from the turn off at the intersection of US 89 and Forest Road 412 to Minnetonka Cave. (See Vicinity and Area Map).

Minnetonka Cave is a limestone cave approximately one-half mile long of which 1,800 feet has been developed for guided tours to the public. Minnetonka Cave is currently one of only five caves within the National Forest System that has been opened for public guided tours; Minnetonka, Wonderland, Blanchard Springs, Ape Caves, and El Capitan Cave. An estimated 30 - 40,000 people visit Minnetonka cave annually. 2016 saw 44,500 visitors. While the cave has been administered by the forest service and open to the public since 1940, the operation of the cave and tours have been under a concessionaire special use permit since 1991.

Minnetonka Cave is located approximately 10.5 miles west of the small town of St. Charles, Idaho at 7,700 feet in elevation. Traditionally, guided tours begin over Memorial Day weekend in May and end just after the Labor Day weekend in September. On rare occasions, residual snow could delay the opening of the cave for the season. The season of operation coincides with the hibernation season needs of the Townsend Big-Eared Bat, a Region 4 sensitive species. Additional protection measures for the Townsend Big-Eared Bat include no after hours Vicinity Map. Minnetonka visitation. A gate located 1/2 mile from cave parking is locked nightly. Cave in Southeast corner of Idaho.

Page 5 Minnetonka Cave is accessed by Forest Service road #412, which is a paved two-lane road from its intersection with US highway 89 in St. Charles, Idaho to the cave parking lot at the end of the road.

From the parking lot, where the ticket booth is located, the cave is accessed via 300-foot boardwalk that leads to the entrance of the cave. Most of the caves 1,800 feet of interior developed trail is native material, the trail has 448 stairs (stone and constructed aluminum), a couple short plank bridges, aluminum handrails along at least one side of the trail for nearly the entire length of trail, and interior lighting. Both the board walk and the interior trail require annual maintenance and periodic repairs.

Maps: Overview of site location.

Page 6 Current site plan, 2016

A propane powered 250-kilowatt generator provides power for the cave’s interior lighting. A well, also powered by the generator, provides drinking water for cave visitors and water for the four flushing toilets. The toilets were converted from chemical to flush toilets several years ago due to problems maintaining the chemical toilets. The vaults total 4000 gallons and require frequent pumping. During the 2016 season pumping occurred six times.

Bear Lake is very popular on weekends and holidays during the same season as the Minnetonka Cave is open. The influx of visitors to the cave that are taking a side trip from their primary destination of Bear Lake often creates a backlog of visitors. On busy days visitors often wait well over two hours to get into a cave tour. Providing for visitor comfort is important. Temporary shade shelters have been constructed by the concessionaire to provide relief on hot days. The concessionaire also sells snacks and drinks. Keeping people entertained while they wait is more challenging.

Page 7 Concessionaire Information This site is operated through a special use permit by a concessionaire. They are officially open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Sometimes the concessionaire may stay open longer into the fall mainly to accommodate special groups, such as school kids, that have made advanced reservations.

Currently, tours are conducted daily from 10:00am to 5:30pm including holidays. Tours are Minnetonka Cave, August 2016 conducted every 30 minutes, the tours and last approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. The cave has only one entrance, so visitors go to the end of the developed trail and return along the same route. Guides stay with the tour going in coming out of the cave. Because tours are staggered, multiple tours are in the cave at the same time. For safety reasons, the maximum people per tour is 30, with a maximum of 3 tours or 90 visitors in the cave at any one time. Current online reviews from Trip Advisor give high marks to cave guides and rated the tour as very enjoyable and worth the time and money.

The concessionaire sell tickets, snacks and beverages, and sometimes sweatshirts on site. The site receives an average of about 500 people per day for the cave tour. The district collects between $30,00- $40,000 annually of the fee revenue from the concessionaire annually (Granger- Thye) generated from this site. These fees are used for permit administration, maintenance and improvement to facilities. Minnetonka Cave, August 2016

Page 8 INTERPRETIVE STATEMENTS

Interpretive Goals Interpretive Goals represent what the Forest Service intends to accomplish and address as the managing agency. These goals can be related to management issues; visitor experiences or resource concerns. Site goals describe how we want the facility to serve our customers, and what the managing unit (and agency) intend to accomplish for this site and associated facilities. These goals include:

• Serve as a welcoming facility that informs, orients, and intrigues visitors, and prepares them for a safe and enjoyable experience. • Promote partnerships (such as the National Speleological Society local chapters), and provide opportunities for visitors, residents, and partners to learn about and discuss the national forests role in local, national, and global resource cave conservation issues. • Promote stewardship, safety and appreciation for the ecology and typology of caves and karst. • Tie history of the cave to larger stories of conservation and preservation. • To promote education on the importance of bats in the natural environment. • Create additional opportunities to educate visitors about forest engagement issues policies and practices. • Help visitors experience the Minnetonka Cave in a manner that generates connections to the place and its resources, and inspire them . • Promote the concept that the ecology of underground caves is an important factor in environmental health and diversity.

Interpretive Themes and Storylines Interpretive Themes and Story- lines are the building blocks for programming and exhibit definition and development. These statements are representative of what is special, unique, and intrinsically important to a site or natural feature. A main theme statement is defined with supporting statements of significance focused on specific resources, or messages. Each statement of significance then has specific story-lines that are important to include about that unique resource.

The central theme for the Stalactite Formations Minnetonka Cave site is:

Minnetonka Cave supports important geologic, ground water, and wildlife resources. As one of only five caves in the National Forest and Grassland system that is open with guided tours to the public, it provides outstanding opportunities for education on cave ecology and its unique and important natural resources.

Page 9 Theme 1: Bats, Bat Health and White Nose Syndrome (WNS)

Bats are an important part of our environment. There are over 1,200 known species of living bats worldwide. Ten species have been observed at Minnetonka Cave. Bat populations all over the world are declining for various reasons. In the Intermountain Region, there are 21 bat species known to occur on NFS lands. Two of these species, the Spotted bat and the Townsends Big Eared bat, are currently on the Regional Forester´s sensitive species list.

Interpretive Objectives 1. Visitors are aware of bat health, ecology, and the impacts of WNS. Visitors will understand the importance of preventing the spread to other caves. 2. Visitors feel that they are in a special place because of the unique cave resources and bat population. 3. Visitors are inspired to take stewardship actions to support the conservation of our natural resources.

Storylines:

1a) White-Nose Syndrome (WNS) is a fungal disease that is estimated to have killed more than one million bats across the northeast and mid–Atlantic United States during the past ten years and in 2016, WNS was detected in three locations in nearby Washington state. Symptoms may include: • Bats with WNS may exhibit a white fungus especially on the bats’ nose, but also on wings, ears, or tail. • Bats flying outside during the day in temperatures at or below freezing • Bats clustered near entrances of hibernacula • Dead or dying bats on the ground or on buildings, trees, of other structures • Bats may lose their fat reserves, which they need to survive hibernation, long before the winter is over. They often leave their hibernacula during the winter and die. As winter progresses, increasing numbers of dead bats have been found at locations affected with WNS. • Hibernating bats may have other fungus that is white in color that is not WNS. If not located in and affected area or if no other signs of WNS are displayed, it may not have it.

1b) Caves and mines that have cool, moist conditions have environments perfect for the Pseudogymnoascus destructans fungus which causes WNS. © Mark Moulton • Hibernating bats are at risk of contracting the fungus that causes WNS. • To date, WNS has affected seven different bat species, three of which are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Listed as a sensitive species, the Townsends Big Eared Bat is known to use the Minnetonka Cave.

Page 10 1c) It has been found that bats affected by WNS are basically starving to death. • Studies are under way to determine if and why bats go into hibernation underweight or if they lose their body fat at an accelerated rate during hibernation. • If bats lose more body fat than normal during hibernation, they may not have the energy reserves to survive until spring.

1d) Scientists are still learning about WNS and do not believe that there is any risk to humans who have come into contact with affected bats. Thousands of people have visited affected caves and mines since white-nose syndrome was first observed. To date, no reported human illnesses have been attributed to WNS. Still, precautions are recommended, including not unnecessarily exposing yourself to environments with WNS. Interpretive messaging can shift should new scientific information be discovered.

1e) WNS fungus has been prevalent in the eastern United States but is moving westward Help us stop the spread of White-Nose Syndrome from cave to cave. • Never bring items (clothing, shoes, backpacks) you have used in other caves or mines into Minnetonka Cave. 1f) Bats are important plant pollinators and they help control nocturnal insects, some of which are agricultural pests. • Almost any insect that is active at night can be food for a bat, including moths, beetles, flies, crickets, gnats, mayflies, wasps, and mosquitoes. An individual bat can eat its body weight in insects every night. It is estimated that the one million bats killed by WNS to date would have eaten more than 5.5 tons of insects per night or 2.4 million pounds of insects per year. • Bats are an important element in the ecology of caves. • Many forms of cave life depend upon the nutrients brought in by bats and released from their guano (feces).

Theme 2: Active Rocks, Fast Water, Geology in Motion

Minnetonka Cave contains important information about climate change, human history, fossils and minerals.

Interpretive Objectives 1. Visitors are not only awed by rock formations and chambers within the cave, but understand the larger underground connections of moving water. 2. Visitors are able to make a connection on the rippling effect of climate change on flora and fauna and commit to reduce their contributions to climate change, both here and at home. 3. Visitors realize that caves are habitats that a variety of life depend on.

Storylines 2 a) Caves are usually created by water dissolving limestone over periods of thousands to millions of years. • Rivers and streams sometimes go underground as part of their course. Then, they are called “sinking streams. Caves are usually formed in rocks called limestone, marble, or lava.

2 b) Clean groundwater is vital to maintain the flow, chemistry and temperature of water in streams, lakes, springs and caves.

Page 11 2 c) Geologists believe the cave is an ancient subterranean stream, which drained into St. Charles Canyon. The cave air-filled chambers provide ideal conditions for the formation of many beautiful and varied cave mineral deposits.

2 d) Stalagmites and stalactites, are formed by water dripping onto or flowing through a cave.

2 e) As our planet experiences increased urbanization, population, and climate change, places such as the Minnetonka Cave require greater scrutiny and monitoring in order to protect its unique habitat.

2 f) Fossils of extinct aquatic life can be found throughout the walls of the cave that provide a one of a kind snapshot of earths history and environment, ancient life and climatic changes over millenniums.

2 g) Caves are home, habitat, and haven for a surprising abundance of rare habitat and fragile life. 2 h) Caves have been home to prehistoric people as well as continue to provide habitat for some animals, including animals that can live without light; bats, crickets, and blind fish.

2 i) These underground environments serve as Cave Formation Process archival vaults, protecting natural and cultural history.

Theme 3: Karst, Underground Water Transports

A karst is a type of land form where sinkholes, sinking streams, and springs are considered normal features and are indicative of the relationship found between the surface or the earth and the underground. Karst cave formations are a precious and fragile natural resource.

Interpretive Objectives 1. Visitors can identify the components of a karst, and how it forms. 2. Visitors understand that there is much that they do not see that contributes to the spectacular landscape and freshwater resources of Idaho.

Storylines: 3 a) Karst forms when carbonate rock, such as limestone, dissolves in surface or subsurface water creating ground openings and sometimes sink holes. The water flows rapidly through karst systems, Bone Bed in Minnetonka Cave Page 12 moving from surface to subsurface and to springs. • This carbonate limestone is also a primary reason the water in Bear Lake and other springs in the area are a beautiful turquoise blue color. • Locally, the Paleozoic Brigham (Geertzen Canyon) Quartzite is fractured and produces water (Kaliser, 1972; Wylie et al., 2005), but much less than the carbonate bedrock. Quartzites and shales within the Bear River Range are likely barriers to local groundwater movement (Wylie et al., 2005).

3 b) What is usually not seen, Minnetonka Cave gives a glimpse of how ground water is distributed and flows. Snow and rain helps to replenish this and other ground water sources (aquifer). Ground water aquifers are an important part of Idaho’s economy providing water for irrigation and water for home use consumption.

Theme 4: Growing Rocks within Mountains, Geology Revealed & Cave Conservation

The decorative dripstones in Minnetonka Cave are called speleothems from the Greek word spelaion meaning cave deposit. These calcite forms are based on both water movement (seeping, dripping, flowing), combined with the amount of calcite crystals in the individual drops of water which combined dictate the shape and size of the formations.

Interpretive Objectives 1. Visitors are amazed by unique and diverse array of formations and how they are created by water and mineralization processes. 2. Visitors understand that formations are created extremely slowly and over thousands of years, and are fragile. They need care and protection. 3. Visitors recognize that caves tell a geologic story unique in time and place to their location. 4. Visitors recognize that while Formations in Minnetonka Cave cave formations are actively expanding and growing in size, they are not living organisms that have a life/death cycle. 5. Visitors understand that they have an inherent responsibility to preserve and respect the integrity of this landscape and unique resource. 6. They feel inspired to practice similar stewardship principles at other cave sites they may visit.

Storylines: 4 a) Formations, called speleothems, grow in an endless variety of shapes, from icicle-like stalactites, and pedestal-like stalagmites to columns, draperies, popcorn, and twisted helictites. The most familiar speleothems are stalactites and stalagmites. Stalactites hang downward from the ceiling and are formed as drop after drop of water slowly trickles through cracks in the cave roof.

Page 13 4 b) As each drop of water hangs from the ceiling, it loses carbon dioxide and deposits a film of calcite.

4 c) Successive drops add ring below ring, the water dripping through the hollow center of the rings, until a pendant cylinder forms. Tubular or “soda straw” stalactites grow in this way; most are fragile and have the diameter of a drop of water, but some reach can get to a yard or more in length.

4 d) The large cone-shaped stalactites begin as these fragile tubes and then enlarge to cones when enough water accumulates to flow along the outside of the soda straws. Deposition of calcite on the outside of the tubes, most of which are near the ceiling and taper downward, results in the familiar cone shapes.

4 e) A curtain or drapery begins to form on an inclined ceiling when the drops of water trickle along a slope. Gradually a thin sheet of calcite grows downward from the ceiling and hangs in decorative folds like a drape. Sheets of calcite that are deposited on the walls or floor by flowing water are called flowstone. Rimstone dams are raised fence-like deposits of calcite on the cave floor that form around pools of water.

4 f) Helictites are curious twisted or spiraling cylinders or needles. They apparently develop when water seeps through the ceiling so slowly that slight chemical or physical changes can cause reorientation of the crystal structure of the calcite or gypsum. Cave corals, also formed by slowly seeping water, are small clusters of individual knobs.

4 g) Rock material produced by the collapse of the ceiling or walls of a cave is called breakdown and may range in size from plates and chips to massive blocks. Most breakdown present in caves today appears to have occurred thousands of years ago. It is generally associated with the early history of cave development.

4 h) When these structures are highlighted by lanterns or electric lights, they transform a cave into a natural wonderland.

4 i) Learn to cave while protecting its resources. Avoid making unnecessary impacts leave no trace of your visit. Help us in discovering new ways to conserve caves. • Touch as little as possible. • Avoid leaning on walls, ceilings, or speleothems. Don’t sit on formations. Look and avoid trampling floor deposits. • When movement requires handhold’s, look first to avoid delicate features and use small points of contact for balance if possible (knuckles or fingertips) rather than entire hands. • Take nothing from caves, leave nothing. Removal of natural or historical objects is unethical and illegal unless you have a collection permit for authorized research.

Page 14 Theme 5: Early Government Work Project Creating a Visitor Experience

In 1939 and 1940 the WPA (Works Progress Administration) developed the cave for tours after it was discovered by a grouse hunter around 1906/07.

Interpretive Objectives: 1. Visitors understand Minnetonka Cave has been a recreation resource managed and operated by the federal government since the early days of improvements. 2. Visitors recognize what their ticket fees contribute in cave engagement. 3. Visitors appreciate the early work of WPA craftsmanship and efforts for creating a viewing experience of the cave. 4. Visitors recognize the tours are currently operated by a concessionaire.

Example of cave infrastructure developed by the Works Progress Administration 1930s- 1940s

Storylines: 6 a) The cave stairs, lighting and pathways were created as part of the Work Projects Administration (WPA). The WPA was part of President Franklin D. Roodevelt’s New Deal program created by the federal government during the Great Depression. It was designed to employ millions of unemployed people, skilled and unskilled laborers, that carried out public works projects, including the construction of public buildings and roads.

6 b) Twenty- four men worked on the project for 9 months from September 1939, to June 1940. The WPA built the stairs, pathways, and put in some of the railings, and enlarged some of the passageways. They also constructed the hiking trail to the cave.

6 c) About $17,000 was expended on the project. In January of 1940, a camp was completed at the old parking lot. The crew was boarded at this camp. The “Work Room” is where these men stored their tools and mixed the cement for the stairs.

6 d) The workers lived on site and sent their wages home to their families.

6 e) The cave was managed by the Forest Service, closed during World War II, and in 1947 reopened for tours.

Page 15 SITE CONDITIONS

Wayfinding and Regulatory Signs Wayfinding and regulatory signs while they currently provide some necessary information do not provide all the right information and are not all located in the correct locations.

Above Photos: Left: Current Canyon entrance sign plus additional interpretive information. Center, Right photos contain wayfinding and

Information and Interpretive Signs Currently Minnetonka Cave Site, the parking and ticket sales area has information displayed in a variety of ways. There are two formal interpretive panels. These panels were recycled from the Bear Lake Scenic Byway (Hwy 89)- the bat topic of these panels relate to the caves but they are not designed nor specific to this site. A series of posters and flyer’s, none of which appear to be related to the cave or national forest messages, are displayed on the building wall- that has been used as a bulletin board. Handpainted visitor information is also located on this building and on the ticket sales building - note the “No Smoking...” message. White Nose Syndrome information has been developed and appears to have been printed out in house on a plotter. A quick lamination protects the message. Finally, there are a few places where the concessionaire has made signs on site of their sales items- this board with candy wrappers taped to it is used as a means of advertising some of what is for sale.

Minnetonka Cave, August 2016 Page 16 Parking Area and Site The parking area currently is often overused, crowded, run down and due to heat, lack of shade, lack of things to do, and crowding, is unpleasant in which to wait for tours. It is common to wait up to two hours for a ticket holder to get onto a cave tour. The facility components are well worn and are in need of maintenance and upgrades.

Page 17 RECOMMENDATIONS

Wayfinding and Regulatory Signs Wayfinding and orientation information to the cave needs to be improved.

Area Signage: Work with local entity responsible for sign and maintenance to provide new sign with increased size of font on road sign at turnoff from Hwy 89. “Minnetonka Cave Road”. The Sign and Poster Guidelines for the Forest Service provides more information on signing, including traffic and wayfinding sign specifications. Forest Service Sign Guidelines: http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/ Intersection of Hwy 89 stelprd3810021.pdf and St. Charles Canyon

At Canyon Entrance - currently located on private property. Replace existing sign with a wayfinding sign - a simpler traffic control type signs. Sample of regulatory and Directional and Wayfinding Signs throughout canyon do not reflect Forest wayfinding information. Service standards. (Reference website of Engineering Sign Manual - website address http://fsweb.wo.fs.fed.us/eng/roads_trails/sign_ guidelines/)

The sign for no trailers allowed is small and placed along the road after the last option to turn around is past. A sign well ahead of the trailhead turn around area needs to be placed on the road as well as a sign just before the trailhead where trailers can be parked and turned around. Canyon Entrance.

Trailier Turn Around - sign currently placed after turn around entrance..

Page 18 Kiosks

Kiosk - 2 Panel Proposed Locations 1. Forest Boundary – Evaluate if there is a place at or near the forest boundary Welcome to St. Charles Canyon to install a 2 panel Entrance Kiosk with and Minnetonka Cave pullout. 2. Lower Parking Area 3. Upper Parking Area

Kiosk Content. Use a title to include the whole canyon - at least at the forest boundary location. There is a lot of recreation and places where people in Example of proposed two addition to the cave. Identify and welcome panel information kiosk. to St. Charles Canyon and Minnetonka Cave.

Panels should include a map of the St Charles Canyon with recreation sites, recreation activities, mileages, and any pertinent/temporary regulations, etc, displayed. A map panel would be designed to be used at other sites as desired (or near duplicates- except for example- moving a “You Are Here” arrow). Note trailer turnaround/park area

The second panel would have all things Minnetonka Cave on it. This is an orientation and information panel and would not contain interpretive stories or messages.

Some of this information could get dated as new technology is developed (i.e. credit cards/tour pricing). Design with that in mind - making those messages easier to change as needed. Information should include: • Miles to the cave site • No trailer parking at cave • Currently no credit cards accepted, cash and checks only • Current tour prices, average wait time for tours, temperatures inside cave is cool – recommend jackets • Flip board for “Tours Now Open” “Tours Sold Out Today, next tour 10:00 AM tomorrow” • (Check mileages on signs for accuracy—signs throughout the canyon seem to be inconsistent) information and include map of the St Charles Canyon – with recreation sites, recreation activities, mileages, and any pertinent/temporary regulations, etc, displayed. • Map panel would be designed to be used at other sites as desired (or near duplicates- except for example- moving a “You Are Here” arrow). Note trailer turnaround/parking area.

Kiosk and Mounting Structures All mounting structures should follow Forest Service Guidelines for signage, posters and wayside exhibits that are representative of Region 4. Built Image Environment Guide: http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/beig/01_frontmatter.pdf

Page 19 Site Structures Interpretive planning includes looking at the site as a whole. If visitors are confused or inconvenienced when trying to get to your site, that can affect their ability to take in your messaging. If the site layout and flow does not provide for ease of the visitor, or if your site does not have physical space for interpretation then other ways of presenting your message needs to be identified.

More permanent shade structures would benefit visitor experiences, provide a safer environment and create gathering places for groups. When renovation occurs, a covered area along the current walkway where tables are currently located combined with the deck area in the plan could be arranged as a place for picnicking and as a place to gather groups for impromptu talks and educational activities. Additional shade structures may need to be considered where people wait in line to purchase tickets.

Sample shade structures

Parking and Traffic Flow The existing site still has minimal space in which to offer interpretation. At the expense of eliminating parking, we recommend reducing the parking in front of the rock wall near entrance to boardwalk. This would remove 3-4 spaces. Delineate with natural barriers such as boulders. Low profile benches (without backs) can be added as part of the parking barrier in front of the rock wall- leaving a walking area between benches and existing rock wall. This would create space for people to sit and for people to walk by and read the interpretive panels. Parking is currently not occurring close to the ticket booth, the picnic tables, nor in front of restroom buildings. Continue to keep this are free of vehicles. Consider additional conversion of parking spaces once the lower parking lot is developed using this valuable space for better flow and gathering areas for people at the cave site.

General Plan Interpretation and Site Renovation for full planned renovation as designed through regional office site plans. Note that RO plans were developed in 2011 and may need to be altered slightly as new information has been identified. Include construction of new lower parking lot and staging area. Provided in this plan are site and interpretive recommendations that can be implemented in phases as funding becomes available and

Page 20 which can also stand on their own should funding not occur for a prolonged period of time . The Montpelier Ranger District, in this case, can implement slowly over time should CIP funding not occur and the need to pick most important phases to complete.

Forest Service Branding and Quality Standards What follows are easy and inexpensive fixes that would boost the professionalism of this amazing resource. These quality and branding solutions require mostly cleaning, painting, and heavy maintenance and are an affordable, temporary fix until reconstruction occurs:

1) Cleaning and painting buildings, trash cans, railings, and benches (avoid slopped paint over to areas where paint is not wanted - such as on the yellow plastic of benches. Recommend ultimate replacement of those benches), and sweeping cobwebs. 2) Using professional signs that follow Forests Service specifications are affordable, or can be renegotiated with a new agreement. Current sign information needs to be replaced with professional looking signs. 3) Advertisements for local events and generic posters removed and replaced with general information about the St Charles Canyon and a map (such as the one recommended for entrance kiosk) can be added. If you want an opportunity to collect anecdotal visitor data, you could for example include a professionally mounted map for people to use pins to mark where they are from. 4) Site needs include needs for an area to store equipment and off season furniture and supplies. 5) Provide better shade structures or professional looking shade tarps that enhance better traffic flow for people. 6) Identify and sign for additional parking. 7) Additional space is needed in ticket sales area and a simple professional sign advertising sale items and to store inventory of sale items. 8) Define the use and safety concerns for the portable fire pit and determine a better method if heat is needed. 9) Replace site identification sign with a kiosk similar to the one that will be placed at the entrance to the canyon- possibly smaller in scale but could use the orientation map.

Minnetonka Cave, August 2016

Page 21 Information and Interpretive Signs Currently Minnetonka Cave Site, the parking and ticket sales area has information displayed in a variety of ways. There are two formal interpretive panels. These panels were recycled from the Bear Lake Scenic Byway (Hwy 89)- the bat topic of these panels relate to the caves but they are not designed nor specific to this site. A series of posters and flyer’s, none of which appear to be related to the cave or national forest messages, are displayed on the building wall- that has been used Railing in need as a bulletin board. Hand-painted of maintenance visitor information is also located on on boardwalk. Outdoor carpet this building and on the ticket sales is bleached building - note the “No Smoking...” nightly and message. White Nose Syndrome helps reduce information has been developed the spread of and appears to have been printed WNS. There are other options out on an in-house plotter. A quick for cleaning lamination protects the message. shoes available. Finally, there are a few places where the concessionaire has made signs on site of their sales items- this board with candy wrappers taped to it is used as a means of advertising some of what is for sale.

Not to standard signage.

Page 22 Phase I - New Parking Area Recommendations • Retain as much natural shade in the new parking area as possible. • Water hydrant • Ticket booth and sales area building • Restroom • Group and individual picnicking area • Welcome kiosk with map and information on the cave and cave tours • Create a gathering area - a small setting where people (up to 20-25) can congregate and, as programming is available, participate in presentations. This type of area could serve as a waiting spot too and be made available in the evening hours to neighboring developed sites for gathering and the occasional campfire program. • Create a self guided accessible interpretive trail-applicable themes include: What’s So Important About Caves? and Bat Health. This can be a simple as numbered posts to small interpretive panels along the trail to a GeoCache activity. Survey area across the main forest road - near trailer parking and determine if the trail can be located on that side of the road as well as on the new parking lot side. • If there will be water (well) at this site, and interpretive theme could be about water, caves, and erosion with a mores hands on type of interpretive stop. Create a complimenting Activity Guide for the interpretive trail- have riddles that test your knowledge of Minnetonka Cave (answers would be discovered along the trail or within the Activity Guide)

Implementation of the new lot, not paved, is scheduled for the summer and fall of 2017. Construction will be occurring by force account labor. Other components of this site will be completed as funding become available. The conceptual design was drafted in 2011 and some alterations to it are planned. The entrance to the parking lot will be moved and there is not a leach field planned. An interpretive trail needs to be included in the layout.

Site plans for new parking area Page 23 Phase II Recommendations Upper lot. Address traffic flow and gathering areas, accessibility, facility safety, FS branding and quality and appearance of site, and design interpretation that can be used at current site and then moved and fit in with site as renovated.

Safety: Current boardwalk has been identified as needing to have a major overhaul. (Regional Office architect identified the structural issues and may have a report or background information on condition) In reconstruction of boardwalk, it needs to be redesigned to allow for accessibility to gathering spot in front of cave entrance. Generator storage – currently generator is operating in a garage on the other side of the bathrooms. The garage door needs to be open so that air flows through and keeps it from overheating. The area is currently open and accessible to all the visitor and traffic flow at the site. The site of garage is situated where concessionaire staff cannot watch the area on a regular bases. Children could easily go inside and behind generator creating a safety concern. Replace garage door with a wire or chain-link type door or gate that locks while allowing air flow. Keep color of replacement that blends in with Built Environment Image Guide (BEIG) – such as dark brown or black. Install an alternate solid door for off-season winter storage. There are several tripping hazards on site due to poor maintenance of decking and boardwalk.

Communication There is currently no cell coverage at the site. This means there are no reservations – unless well in advance (2 weeks), no current way for upper site to communicate with future lower site (new parking area), and no way to electronically run credit cards on site in real time. (An old fashioned credit card slide machine and the square app could be used but no way of direct contact with bank so if card was bad, the responsibility would be on the concessionaire to pay). Communication with the outside world can be a component of the prospectus with concessionaire.

Currently, if an accident occurs, someone would drive down the canyon until they had cell coverage and could call for assistance. As communication techniques and cell coverage continue to improve there is some anticipation that this will improve. Satellite phones are another option.

Visitor Comfort Visitors commonly wait 1-2 hours after paying their ticket to actually go on the tour. The vast majority of those waiting stay on site. The parking lot could have up to 500 people at a time milling around and waiting. According to the concessionaire, 50-150 people at a time, on average, wait around the site for their tour to start. Once new parking is developed it is anticipated that much of the congestion at the upper site will be lessened.

This is an asphalt paved site and gets hot. The concessionaire has temporarily addressed the need for shade by purchasing and putting up temporary shade shelters. They have also purchased folding plastic picnic tables and benches, and offer sale items of snacks and water as often people were unprepared for the wait.

There is ample free time for these waiting visitors that goes untapped from an interpretive standpoint. Most would welcome additional things to do while they wait and try to entertain antsy children or pass their time while waiting to enter the cave.

Page 24 Phase III- Implementation of Site Reconstruction - Recommendations Reconstruction plans includes replacing boardwalk, tearing out current toilet building, replacing with toilet facilities in a new location, replacing ticket booth, new construction of overlook deck, and more retaining wall structures.

Prior to this event, we recommend the district, forest, and region review the plans and make sure site reconstruction will provide for the needs from a visitor services perspective. When interviewing the concessionaire, and conducting site visit a few needs were evident.

New site plan developed for Minnetonka Cave.

This is the best time to make tweaks if needed, prior to contract development and construction to be sure plans fit needs of how the site is being used; Consider these questions. 1. Is there adequate storage area, enough space in ticket booth for concession operation’s needs - sale items, tickets, potential video for accessible tour, space for generator, shade structures and miscellaneous equipment? 2. Has enough space for people who are waiting been delineated? Can the deck area in current plan be enlarged to create more space for people and interpretation? 3. Are permanent structures for shade incorporated and/or are permanent support structures (pillars) for professional looking shade tarps included in the plans? 4. Is space designed for potential, future shoe washing area accounted for? Where would be the best location for the wash station? In the parking and sales area or along the boardwalk to trail, or at the entrance area of the cave?

Page 25 Interpretive Recommendations • Once restrooms are replaced, add a 2-3 panel information kiosk. General information of the canyon/area, information on the cave. • Move interpretive panels (reader rails) to deck. • Add more panels along deck with storylines identified in this plan - keep in reader rail format. • Add shade structures to gathering/waiting area. Replace and update furniture (tables and benches). • As boardwalk is replaced and made accessible, incorporate accessible tour opportunity in gathering spot near cave entrance. • People that cannot manage all the steps within the cave can feel the rough rocks on outside of entrance and cold air as it flows out of the cave. • Add a few interpretive panels in this area that tell a different part of the bat and geology and story here. • Replace existing, outdated, benches, may need a small fence/wall to delineate area. - Keep existing building by cave opening – reface and update building. • Clean, paint with Forest Service colors and discourage any graffiti. • Discourage guides from asking for tips or gratuities. If people offer that is fine. They should be adequately compensated by the employer holding the agreement with the Forest and as per wage requirements by the government. • Remove chair from the roof and conduct regular inspections. • Use this building in two ways – to store items needed by concessionaire, and as a virtual tour area with the installation of a programmed flat screen monitor to show videos about the cave, resources, ethical behaviors, formations and other storylines. This type of media could be geared to provide an accessible experience for those unable to go into the cave.

Sample reader rail panel for deck and boardwalk railing.

Existing building reused for accessible video and/ or storage. Benches with unique yellow plastic sides to be replaced.

Page 26 Design Template The color palette recommended is from a panel that was recently developed for Minnetonka Cave. The color palette and font selection is consistent with the Intermountain Region Design Guidelines for Recreation-related Exhibitry and Print, http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd489992.

Color Palette Colors are identified by their Pantone Matching System (PMS) number in order to communicate exact formulas to potential graphic designers, fabricators, and other vendors. Staying within adopted design color, font, stylist templates for all future interpretive media adds a consistent and professional image of the Forest Service. It makes it easier for readers to identify and take in your messages with a consistent look. Colors selected for the Minnetonka Cave Site should focus on the cool palette—with the addition of white—to better reflect that natural elements of the Caribou Targhee National Forest landscape.

Intermountain Region Color Palette

Fonts Fonts for the Minnetonka Cave were based on the interpretive panel below. A series of panels, including Bats In Peril, were initially developed in 2016 for Region 1 in

Exhibit Panel Template

Page 27 partnership with the Bureau of Land Management about WNS and bat mortality across caves in the western U.S. These panels were picked up in Region 2 and now Region 4. The Minnetonka Cave panel was designed but not fabricated as part of this series.

Fonts; AdobeFnt16, Alrtrincham-Reg, Biondi, HypatiaSansPro-Bold, HypatiaSansPro-Light, HypatiaSansPro-Regular, Mainan MinionPro-Regular.

Electronic files for this panel design is located in the Forest corporate files on the ODrive for the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and is kept within corporate files for the Center for Design and Interpretation. The Wildlife Biologist on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest is the liaison for the original series of bat panels. Additionally, the National Cave and Karst Coordinator out of the Forest Service Washington Office provided valuable information. Once site specific panels are underway, design of theBats In Peril panel may consider some tweaking.

Signage should be professional in graphic appearance and presentation. Signs with orientation and information should follow guidelines in sign handbook and interpretive panel should follow principles of interpretation and graphic design. Accessibility in reading signage should also be taken into consideration.

Page 28 Interpretive Panels and Programs Existing panels are recycled off of a nearby scenic byway and will be replaced. The new updated interpretive panels will be installed on the other side of the rock wall. Panels would address Bats in Peril, Cave and Karst Geology, and other themes of the site. They would use Design Guidelines as identified/approved in this plan. This could also be a place to add a panel with site map. Design panels in a layout that could be transferred to the interpretive deck that is planned for the site – layout panels in a reader rail format.

Interpretive messaging can also be incorporated into the facilities as updated. New Forest Service approved picnic tables can be designed to fit with FS Branding image and include the table top as a spot for stories and messages – such as a map of the cave with Minnetonka Cave, August 2016 cool things identified that people can Sample tables look at while they with built in interpretation wait for their tour to start. Items created that people can purchase or be given for free (such as activity guide) through interpretive association or concessionaire in partnership with FS design such as a deck of cards with information on caves (old maid, go fish, etc where you have match photos or quiz information where answers could be found in interpretive panels at the site), travel boards of bat bingo, activity guide booklets, coloring sheets, or I Spy where you find clues given at the site.

The Minnetonka Cave Dialogue used for personal interpretation within the cave by tour guides needs to be reviewed and overhauled. Messages should incorporate more scientific and factual yet interesting information as identified the themes and storylines section of this document. The current dialogue has more of a cute yet outdated entertainment feel to it and less conservation education (CE) messaging. CE can have entertainment value and engaging component to it, but keep in mind the FS goal of conservation education is to have an overarching education component where visitors can learn about their natural environment. The program needs to tell the story the FS has identified as important to tell. What message do you want visitors to take away from the tour? They should remember more than formations named after cartoons. There are numerous interpretive messages and storylines that can be expanded in this interpretive plan. Samples of Activity Guide presentations are available.

A resource manual for guides that is developed by National Forest staff is recommended with resource information unique to Minnetonka Cave, standards for delivery of programming, objectives to be accomplished, and updates with new discoveries or information.

Page 29 Cave sample education activities and resource information is available at the following websites: • https://ems-team.usda.gov/sites/fs-mgm-caves/_layouts/15/start.aspx#/SitePages/ Home.aspx • https://www.nps.gov/cave/learn/nature/cave_educational_resources.htm#CP_ JUMP_2030537 • http://karsteducation.org/

The current cave dialogue should be rewritten in partnership with FS as lead and concessionaire. Involve an interpreter as well as wildlife biologist and geologist and other applicable partners as part of rewrite/review team. Encourage new guides to become certified interpretive guides through the National Association of Interpretation as part of updated agreement. (See interp.net for more information on specific requirements. NAI may even be able to host training on-site if there are enough participants to make it financially worthwhile.)

Page 30 COST ESTIMATES

Interpretive Products The following estimates for the items below can fluxuate depending on a number of factors such as, material of the product being produced, level of design needed, or ongoing maintenance costs.

Sign panels: 24” x 36” panel/$3500 for design and fabrication. If a template exists, there is some cost reduction. Frame system: $500/frame, (some materials allow for frameless sign mounting)

Rock and roof kiosk following standard FS design styles. 3 paneled kiosk $5000 Rock base: $10,000 (could be less if using a rock veneer)

Flat screen monitor and computer system with remote access: $5000 - $10,000

Video filming/production and file prep for use: $2500 per minute. This includes all costs, filming quality HD imagery, music, voice and production costs. Another option is to create short 1 minute video clips that can be self-selected.

Graphics to illustrate aspects of water flow in the cave Minnetonka Cave and its relationship to ground water. Graphic designer/$50 hour 5 hours illustration ~ $250 Scan, and reprint as needed.

Design of self-guided interpretive trail completed by regional landscape architect Materials for trail construction: $2500 - $5000 5 interpretive signs/stops: $3000

Activity Guide Books: Design and development ~ $2500

Games and educational activities: cost will vary based on product design, but estimate between $2500 - $3500 per product.

Page 31 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

Partnerships Expand partnerships with Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID or Utah State University in Logan, UT with journalism, recreation, interpretation and natural resource departments to add student coursework developing new scripted tours with several different focus topics. This could also serve as a recruitment tool for training potential new guides that could be offered internships at the cave. Partnering with university journalism departments could include development of short video clips or new research content that can be incorporated into exhibits, assist with updating cave dialogue, tours, accessible tours, and/or off site presentations.

Establishing relationships with local chapters of caving clubs can contribute new findings about the cave, special programming, assist in addressing safety concerns, and monitoring of cave conditions. This effort would require cultivating relationships with local groups, identifying common interests, concerns and goals. The National Speleological Society (caves.org and http://utahgrotto.org) would be the point of contact for identifying cave clubs to work with from Utah and/or Wyoming. The Bear River club information is listed below: Bear River Grotto 000433 5481 Shenandoah Chubbuck, ID, 83202 Publication: Utah Caver

Contact Information: (208)237-1392 [email protected], Thomas Haskett or Aaron Christensen

Local Tourism or Chamber of Commerce groups are already dispensing information about the club. Local tour groups organized in town and transported to the site would help minimize traffic and parking problems.

Networking, site visits and information sharing with other natural resource agencies managing cave visitation would be useful for addressing common management issues; new ideas; and new research findings. This could also include the cave club groups. Site visits to other caves, and bringing other cave managers to the site would benefit all attendees.

Working With a Limited Budget Conducting interpretive program with limited staff and dollars can be challenging. In lieu of funding, another feasible option in delivering interpretive programming is to consider setting up a partnership with local resorts to operate a resort naturalist program. Bear Lake shares some of the watershed, geology, and karst storylines. Numerous forests have successfully implemented this program in the past. Agreements are made between local resort owners and the Forest Service that are cost sharing arrangements and provide benefits to both parties. If such a program is pursued, the following questions should be addressed and negotiated: 1) What are the objectives of the program? 2) Who/what audiences will benefit from the program? 3) Who will supervise and evaluate employees? 4) What are the employee needs for housing, uniforms, training, vehicle use during

Page 32 work hours, pay and other miscellaneous items and how will this be handled? 5) What kind of schedule will be developed that meets program objectives and determines level of programming at lodge/resort facilities? 6) How will funding for program be managed? 7) How will the success of the program be monitored and evaluated?

Personnel & Training Personnel Options at Minnetonka Cave Forest Service personnel, concessionaire personnel, interns, local teachers, college professors, volunteers, Student Conservation Association students, college work-study programs, chamber of commerce members, club members, and/ or guest speakers are all means to implement interpretive messaging. Special programs could also be developed if expanding programming at the site was determined to be desired with special event or high use days (holidays, weekends) implemented by a potential partner.

Interpretive Resource Manual A critical element for a successful public contact program is an Interpretive Resource Manual. This manual lays the foundation for conducting and evaluating all public contact activities at Minnetonka Cave. The importance of developing this manual should not be underestimated: it sets forth high quality standards for interpreters performance, establishes standard operating procedures, and provides for consistency in communicating resource information and agency philosophy, mission, and messages.

A resource manual should include in-depth resource and research information that incorporate issues, themes, and topics as relevant to the cave and surrounding areas where information would be dispersed. Sample sections to be covered in the manual could include more in depth cave history, geological formation history, and how water travels through the cave. This provides the basis for the stories that you can tell. Additional information for the plan to include is cave monitoring data, route exploration information, fauna and flora in caves, as well as common visitor questions to anticipate, and safety issues and protocols. An example of a thematic program outline includes: http://www.interphandbooks.org/docs/Interp_theme_planning_worksheet.pdf or https:// www.interpnet.com/nai/docs/CIT/Heroux_Program-Planning-Worksheet.pdf

Page 33 New programs are submitted to applicable forest specialists for review and have district ranger, or their assigned staff, give approval. While using scripted tours has served in the past, publics today readily see this as staged, and desire information that is educational, relevant, thematic, interesting and concise. With tours at Minnetonka, incorporate less of a scripted experience. A variety of tours can be designed for interpretive guides which use identified themes and storylines from this plan. This helps to insure anyone presenting information has some understanding of what is expected; and allows for theme variations. It allows guides to prepare programs and inflect their own passion and interest into what they share with visitors as well. Consider staging programming at multiple locations besides just the cave; and represents Forest Service messages and standards.

Recommended manual contents include: • Narrative research supporting interpretive themes • Standard operating procedures for visitor services, interpretive programs, and medical emergencies typically encountered • Performance standards for interpreters • “Individual Service Plans” for interpretive programs • Sample “Themes, Goals, and Objectives” for individual programs Appropriate expertise and time should be devoted to the manual’s development. This effort should be, at least partially, undertaken during the summer months to witness visitor behavior and issues relevant to the manual. The manual is not intended to limit creativity; rather its purpose is to ensure consistent, high quality visitor services, accurate resource information, and agency messages. New staff will have a framework upon which to build and individualize their interpretive programs while maintaining accuracy and consistency in message, information, and resource information. The Interpretive Resources Manual should be made available to all interpretive guides and concession staff.

Training & Certifications All public contact staff should receive training prior to providing information and interpretive services to Caribou-Targhee National Forest visitors. Those in need of training include: seasonal interpreters, volunteers, and anyone who may be in contact with visitors on the site. Training all staff together will enhance communications improving overall service to the public. The following items need to be covered to ensure consistency in interpretive themes and professionalism: • Interpretive Techniques and Communication Skills • Natural History and Conservation of the local district and canyon • Forest Service Mission and Management Practices

Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) Training, National Association of Interpretation (NAI) provides an opportunity to expand the qualifications of interpreters. In addition the website is a great place to search for upcoming training opportunities. This particular certification documents that guides, upon successful completion, possess skills and knowledge that allow them to perform effectively in the interpretive profession. Students, docents, and volunteers are eligible as long as the qualifications are met which include a minimum age of 16 (CIG/CIH), college course work or sufficient field experience (CIT, CIM, CHI and CIP). Membership in NAI is not required for certification application and partial scholarships for certifications and courses are available for NAI members on a first-come, first-served basis. Some NAI organizational units also provide scholarships for participation in any certification course (including CIG). Check out NAI’s Organizational Units page to determine if scholarships are available. NAI has a number of course

Page 34 offerings. Most of these are course-based with several NAI trainers and affiliates across the globe. The Certified Interpretive Guide curriculum is geared for individuals who present formal interpretive programs and covers the foundations of interpretation as well as presentation skills. The Certified Interpretive Host program is for everyone else at your site (front desk, maintenance, retail, food and beverage staff) to recognize they share part of the interpretation at your site; course includes customer service and informal interpretation skill development. For a list of upcoming courses, visit the Certification Calendar, https://www.interpnet.com/

EVALUATION & MONITORING Evaluation and monitoring is one of the few ways to learn if you are conducting the high quality visitor services indicative of the forest service. This can be accomplished through: • Communicating performance standards to all seasonal interpreters • Periodic auditing and review of all public contact programs • Mid-season and final evaluations of performance standards for all seasonal employees

While evaluation of any program is a critical factor to its ongoing success, it is often the most over looked component. Evaluation of exhibits, programs or any interpretive/ educational endeavor provides a venue for restructuring effective program planning and opportunity for growth. Keep in mind when evaluating and choosing different data collection methods that assessment of behavior, mood, or response to environmental conditions should be as unobtrusive as possible. Monitoring techniques and questionnaires developed would need to go through Forest Service Research branch for approval. The following are some methods employed by environmental psychologists to study and record visitors responses to stimuli.

Unobtrusive Methods The goal is to apply measurement techniques that address the questions you are asking, while disturbing the setting as little as possible, allowing you to study real people in real environments. The disadvantage of using technique is that it may entail an invasion of privacy and a lack of informed consent on the visitor’s part. 1. Observational Techniques The best way to do this is to watch others and report/ record their behavior and interactions. Log the number of occurrences of certain behaviors and what provoked them (whether positive or negative). 2. Behavior Mapping This technique requires you to accurately record visitors actions in a particular place at a specific time. 3. Accretion This data collection method measures the physical evidence removed or left behind at a specific location by visitors such as trails formed by visitors or litter left.

Obtrusive Methods The most obvious and sometimes accurate way of measuring visitors moods, thoughts, attitudes and behavior is to directly ask what they are thinking, how they feel, and what they would like to see or feel at a specific location. 1. Self report measures - This method involves interviews on site or mail back questionnaires given to them when they leave the site. a. Questionnaires - It can be mailed back anonymously, or filled out at the end of the visit and dropped anonymously in a collection spot. It could be given to a large group at one time or individuals. The disadvantage is that an interviewer is not available to answer questions once a visitor takes questionnaire off site, and visitors may interpret the questions inaccurately.

Page 35 b. Interviews - This can be given only to a few people at a time since it is an individual process. The interviewer may need some level of skill in interpreting the visitor’s response and in answering their questions. 2. Cognitive Mapping - This is when the visitor is asked to draw a map in one minute showing the site they just visited which is color coded. The map shows the importance of certain areas to them, and lists them in order of value.

Exhibit Evaluation Methods Exhibits and brochures may be evaluated in the planning stage, or after completion by using one or a combination of the following methods: 1. Observe exhibit readers noting amount of time spent at exhibit 2. Evaluate exhibit with panel of outsiders not associated with interpretation or subject matter 3. Evaluate exhibit based upon interaction with various senses, abilities and cognitive levels 4. Observe and record visitor interest at exhibit sites by what they left behind (fingerprints, footprints, litter). Look for results of depreciate behavior. 5. Solicit visitor comments with questionnaire they fill out

Program Evaluation Program evaluation is conducted during the interpretive program. The manager reviews how well the interpreter meets the goals and objectives of the Forest Service and the topic being interpreted.

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regu- lations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information request- ed in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: [email protected] (link sends e-mail).

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

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