Interpretive Sites

As tourism becomes ever more important to Alaskan economies, private and public lands are receiving more use. Most visitors are intent on seeing and enjoying the beauty and richness of our land. However, problems can arise from the high traffic the land receives. At times, visitors are ignorant of local customs and treat the land and waters disrespectfully or carelessly.

Interpretive sites are one way to inform visitors of appropriate behavior while in the area. They may convey meanings and relationships contained in an area or site. They inform through personal experience and illustrative media, helping the visitor gain a deeper understanding of the land. Interpretation is many things; a teaching technique, an education and information service. It increases people’s natural and cultural appreciation for an area. Interpretation takes many forms, from guided nature walks, informative audio or videotapes, road maps, to visitor guides or newsletters.

Interpretation is effective because it gets the visitors involved in actively learning. It's generally recognized that people retain about 10% of what they hear 30% of what they read 50% of what they see 90% of what they do. So, by getting more of the senses involved, people leave your site better understanding your message.

The Kenaitze Tribe on the Kenai Peninsula has developed a nice site and may be reached at 907/283-3633. At the USDA Forest Service, Stephanie Ludwig or Linda Yarbrough are good sources of information and may contacted at 907/271-2511.