Transportation System and Some Impacts in Phu Ruea National Park

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to study the numbers of vehicles, carrying capacity of parking areas, impacts of transportation system on the visitor experience and some impacts on the soil and vegetation in Phu Ruea National Park. Data of the number of vehicles at the park entrance station and in the parking areas were collected along with the measurement of the parking area. Questionnaires were used to collect visitor data. Soil and vegetation impact data were collected in a systematic manner. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis and One-way ANOVA. It was found that the highest number of vehicles during holidays averaged 1,321 vehicles per day and the capacity of parking area in Phu Ruea National Park was 760 vehicles per cycle or 842 vehicles per hour. A comparison of the frequency of use with the carrying capacity indicated that most parking areas had a frequency of use less than 50% and below the park capacity. The only exception was the parking area at Campground 2 (Phu Son) which had a frequency of use more than 80% and exceeded the capacity. As for the visitor experience, it was found that overall travelling satisfaction level was high. The average highest and lowest satisfaction values were the air quality and quality of road surface. As for the impact on soil and vegetation, it was found that the soil bulk density and the number of invasive species at the road verges were higher than in the natural forest areas. Severe soil erosion was also found on the road from Check Point No.2 (Phu Ruea Summit) to Campground 2 (Phu Son).