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Evaluating Mobility Data for Recreation Monitoring: Diagnostics and Implications for Best Practice

Author

Listed:
  • Cameron Duff
  • Alice Antia
  • James Hilger
  • Eric Horsch
  • Nathaniel Merrill
  • Jason Murray
  • Samantha Winder
  • Spencer Wood
  • Matthew Zafonte

Abstract

Mobile device location data (or mobility data [MD]) are a novel and exciting source of information for recreational monitoring. We analyze datasets from four commercial vendors across three case studies to illustrate some important challenges. Our results show inconsistent spatial-temporal patterns and correlations with on-site counts. Given this evidence, we describe a conceptual model of the potential sources of error and structural variability in visitation estimates derived from MD. We discuss approaches for evaluation of data quality and suggest a range of supplemental data products that vendors could provide to support recreation analysis.

Suggested Citation

  • Cameron Duff & Alice Antia & James Hilger & Eric Horsch & Nathaniel Merrill & Jason Murray & Samantha Winder & Spencer Wood & Matthew Zafonte, 2026. "Evaluating Mobility Data for Recreation Monitoring: Diagnostics and Implications for Best Practice," Land Economics, University of Wisconsin Press, vol. 102(3), pages 437-454.
    • Handle: RePEc:uwp:landec:v:102:y:2026:i:3:p:437-454
    Note: DOI: https://doi.org/10.3368/le.102.3.011626-0006
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • Q26 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Renewable Resources and Conservation - - - Recreational Aspects of Natural Resources
    • Q51 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Valuation of Environmental Effects

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