The use of environmental impact assessment in the management of open space and recreational land in California

Pressures on open space and recreation land have highlighted the potential of environmental impact assessment as a management strategy. The role of environmental assessment is examined in providing information for decision makers on the many conflicting aspects of environmental quality and resource use. Case studies are presented to illustrate the use of this technique in producing a management plan and in evaluating the impact of that plan on wilderness areas of California. Conclusions are reached concerning the quality of environmental statements, the techniques used to assess environmental impact and the nature of management strategies emerging from the use of the environmental review process.