Trampling
Tourists using the same trail over and over again trample the
vegetation and soil, eventually causing damage that can lead to loss of
biodiversity and other impacts. Such damage can be even more extensive when
visitors frequently stray off established trails.
Trampling impacts on vegetation |
Trampling impacts on soil |
Breakage and bruising of stems |
Loss of organic matter |
Reduced plant vigour |
Reduction in soil porosity |
Reduced regeneration |
Decrease in air and water permeability |
Loss of vegetation ground cover |
Increase in run off |
Loss of vegetation diversity |
Accelerated erosion |