Flathead National Forest conducting visitor use surveys

National Visitor Use Monitoring surveys began this week and will be conducted across the Flathead National Forest through Sept. 30. The primary function of the survey is to gauge National Forest visitor satisfaction. It provides National Forest managers with an estimate of how many people recreate on the Flathead National Forest, what activities they engage in while there, and how satisfied people were with their visit. Surveys are voluntary and all responses are confidential; names are not included. Interviews include basic visitor information and last about 10 minutes. 

Visitors to Flathead National Forest will encounter Forest Service employees conducting interviews in developed and dispersed recreation sites and along Forest Service roads. They will be out in all types of weather conditions, wearing bright orange vests and will be near a sign that says, “Traffic Survey Ahead.” 

“Although the survey is entirely voluntary, participation is extremely important so we can assess visitor experiences on the Forest and strive to make it a better place to visit,” said Forest Supervisor Anthony Botello. “We would appreciate it if visitors would pull over and answer a few questions. We would like to hear from local people using the forest, as well as out-of-area visitors, so all types of visitors are represented in the study.” 

For more information visit www.fs.usda.gov/about-agency/nvum