Semester

Fall

Date of Graduation

2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design

Department

Recreation, Parks and Tourism Resources

Committee Chair

Chad Pierskalla

Committee Member

David Smaldone

Committee Member

Zachariah Fowler

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive examination of user motivations, demographics, and satisfaction levels at the West Virginia University (WVU) Core Arboretum during the period spanning from the summer of 2022 to the spring of 2023. Green spaces across the United States have seen an increase in public attention in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and are actively seeking to capitalize on the renewed interest. Seeking to aid the WVU Core Arboretum in garnering renewed public interest, this study utilized a survey comprising sections on user perceptions, demographics, satisfaction, and usage that garnered 182 responses.

Demographic analysis of the survey found that non-WVU student visitors attained a higher level of education, had a higher income level, and leaned older than the general population of Morgantown. Visitor motivations leaned heavily toward immersion in nature, learning more, and relaxing in both body and mind. Arboretum performance levels, as evaluated by the public, were positive across most measures, with high importance placed on natural beauty and trail quality. Finally, arboretum usage tends toward 1-2 hour long visits with month-long intervals between visits, predominately focused on spending that time hiking the grounds.

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