All-terrain vehicles: Differences in perceptions of impact on coastal dunes among communities in New Brunswick, Canada

The increase of illegal all-terrain vehicle (ATV) use on New Brunswick coasts causes concern for the integrity of sandy beaches and dune systems, essential barriers for coastal protection. Using a randomly distributed self-administered questionnaire, we compared three New Brunswick coastal communities concerning resident's: (a) perceptions of impact on; (b) perceived main threat to; (c) value orientations about; and the (d) acceptability of use and management of ATVs on; coastal dunes. ANOVA identified the mean differences between communities and the Potential for Conflict Index2 identified differences in levels of consensus in these concepts. Data revealed that Miscou Island significantly differed from Pointe-Sapin in perceived impacts of photographed dunes, the main threat to dunes, and in ATV restrictions. These results suggest that perceptions of impact may be context specific. By understanding these communities individually, better communication messages may be designed.Management implications•The baseline results of this study can be used by all-terrain vehicle (ATV) managers in New Brunswick to enhance communication methods by acknowledging the differences and similarities between the communities.•One community may be more aware of the impacts caused to sand dunes by ATVs which may have important implications for public engagement.•Historical and geographic context may be crucial to the community's perceptions of impact and the acceptance of ATV management.