The Alaska Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation is using modern technology to shape the future of its recreational areas.
During a recent “Make it Monday” luncheon hosted by the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce, director Ricky Gease explained how cell phone GPS data is helping them track visitor trends and prioritize areas for improvement.
For the past three years, anonymous GPS signals from mobile phones have been used to identify the most popular parks and outdoor spaces in Alaska.
This information is critical for making informed decisions about where state funding should be directed to maintain, improve, or expand these areas.
The data also provides insights into changing visitor patterns and growing demand for outdoor recreation.
Gease emphasized that the GPS information is anonymous and only used to observe general trends.
“We’re not looking at who is visiting,” Gease said. “It’s about understanding where people are going and how often they visit so we can invest in the places that matter most.”
This data-driven approach aligns with Alaska’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) for 2023-2027.
The plan outlines steps for improving recreational facilities and services to benefit both residents and tourists.
Investing in state parks is about more than just infrastructure, Gease explained. “When we make investments in infrastructure for Alaska state parks, we’re investing in ourselves,” he said.
He highlighted that such investments contribute to personal health, family well-being, economic growth, and workforce development.
Alaska’s extensive natural beauty and recreational opportunities play a vital role in the state’s tourism industry and local economy.
By using technology to better understand visitor behavior, state officials hope to make smart investments that enhance the park experience for everyone.
In addition to funding decisions, GPS data helps the state identify areas under heavy strain due to high visitor numbers.
This allows for better planning of maintenance schedules, upgrades, and infrastructure expansions to meet growing demand.
It also helps protect sensitive natural areas by diverting traffic to other locations that can handle larger crowds.
Alaska’s commitment to improving parks and outdoor spaces underscores the importance of preserving these valuable resources for future generations. The new approach ensures that investments are made where they can have the greatest impact.
The state encourages residents and visitors to continue enjoying Alaska’s great outdoors, knowing that their anonymous data is contributing to making these spaces even better.
Officials say the next few years will see improvements in key areas as they implement findings from their data analysis and the SCORP recommendations.
While cell phone GPS data might seem like a high-tech tool, its use demonstrates a forward-thinking strategy by Alaska’s Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation.
By blending traditional stewardship with cutting-edge technology, Alaska aims to create recreational spaces that remain vibrant, accessible, and enjoyable for years to come.
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Archer Bannister is a journalist with 4 years of experience covering hard-hitting stories. Currently working with Mikeandjonpodcast, Archer specializes in delivering timely and in-depth updates on a variety of topics, including crime news, politics, and national issues affecting the USA. His expertise and dedication to delivering accurate, impactful news make him a trusted voice for audiences seeking to stay informed on critical topics.
