• Wilkins, Emily
  University of Maine, School of Forest Resources
  
• Morgan, Andrew
  University of Maine, School of Forest Resources
  
• De Urioste-Stone, Dr. Sandra
  University of Maine, School of Forest Resources
  

Climate change has already increased the average annual temperature in Maine and increased precipitation. Furthermore, projections show temperature is likely to continue increasing, and that there will be even more precipitation in the future. This could impact visitors in the Katahdin region and Baxter State Park. Researchers surveyed visitors in Baxter State Park (BSP) as well as tourists across the state in August and September of 2015 in order to gain insight into the impact of weather on their trips. Results show that the majority of visitors surveyed planned their trip 1-3 months in advance, and only 10% planned their trip within a week. A total of 47% of visitors surveyed in BSP stated the weather was either very important or important in selecting the Katahdin region as their destination. In addition, 40% indicated the weather altered their travel or recreational plans. Visitors indicated average precipitation and average amount of sunshine were the most influential weather variables.Additionally, 60% of visitors to the Katahdin region believe that climate change is happening, and 56% are concerned about climate change. Therefore, visitors may be receptive to climate change information or additional studies within the park.