Optimizing the use of automatic counters to monitor visits to protected natural areas: the case study of Montsant Natural Park, Spain

Natural parks are valuable protected natural areas (PNA) and can attract many visitors, thus increasing the pressure on ecosystems and contrasting with conservation objectives. This article focuses on Montsant Natural Park and describes a comprehensive method for monitoring visitors based on the optimized use of automatic counters called the Optimal Visitor Monitoring System (OVMS). This system ensures (i) greater reliability of the data collected, (ii) greater adaptability to the characteristics of the different areas, and (iii) better use of the data provided by the monitoring system. Data generated by the OVMS included visitor inflow by entrances, visitor inflow by months, and distribution of visitor inflow by trail or recreation area within the park. The OVMS is useful for monitoring visitors over years and identifying trends that can inform regulatory or management actions related to the public use of conservation lands.

Automated summary

This article introduces the optimized visitor monitoring system in Montsant Natural Park, which accurately collects visitor data and adapts to the characteristics of different areas. It helps to monitor visitors and analyze trends in the park over the long term.