Evaluating Wilderness Perception Mapping with the addition of 3D analysis : a case study in Pukaskwa National Park

Abstract

This research analyzed the wilderness area in Pukaskwa National Park with the use of the Wilderness Perception Mapping methodology. The research developed and employed a modified version of the Wilderness Perception Mapping methodology to provide wilderness perception mapping using the third dimension to analyze locations of visual impact. The locations identified with the traditional and modified Wilderness Perception Mapping methodologies were used as a basis for comparison between the two Wilderness Perception Mapping methodologies and with the established wilderness zone identified by Pukaskwa National Park. The methodology from the traditional Wilderness Perception Mapping was utilized in conjunction with 3D analysis techniques to spatially identify potential wilderness areas based on visual ability. When compared to the traditional Wilderness Perception Mapping methodology, viewshed analysis within a GIS generated spatial locations of potential wilderness which significantly increased wilderness areas. Further viewshed analysis was conducted to implement natural visual barriers from forested areas and compare the results to the previous two analyses, which resulted in increased potential wilderness areas within Pukaskwa National Park.