Visitor Use Management Training

Dates: February 10-11, 2026

Location: Golden, CO 80401

About the Training

SORP is partnering with Jefferson County Parks and Open Space (CO) for an in-person VUM Training on February 10-11, 2026.  Learn more and register here .

SORP’s   Visitor Use Management   trainings have brought together recreation planners, land managers, and researchers from across the globe to explore the foundations of sustainable recreation planning. Through dynamic, interactive sessions, participants gained practical tools and strategies to navigate complex management challenges in parks, protected areas, and recreation destinations.

Each training is designed for engagement and real-world application. Participants built a strong foundation in the  Visitor Use Management Framework , explored how VUM supports  sustainable recreation  in diverse contexts, and applied  planning steps and decision-making tools  to realistic scenarios. Small-group discussions and case-based exercises encouraged collaboration across agencies and disciplines, helping professionals translate concepts into action.

These trainings have provided an invaluable opportunity for recreation and resource professionals to strengthen their understanding of visitor use management, connect with peers, and develop skills to make informed, balanced decisions that enhance visitor experiences while protecting cultural and natural resources.

Gain practical tools and strategies to navigate complex management challenges parks, protected areas, and recreation destinations.

Engage and learn real-world application,  building a strong foundation in the Visitor Use Management Framework

Explore the foundations of sustainable recreation planning through dynamic, interactive sessions

Registration Details

Schedule

February 10, 2026

• Training 8:00-5:00 (Lunch Included)
• Social Time/Location TBA

February 11, 2026

• Training 8:00-12:00 
  

Location

Jeffco Courts & Administration Building
(Faye Griffin Conference Room - First Floor)
100 Jefferson County Parkway
Golden, CO 80419

Registration Rates

SORP Members

$500

Not-Yet-SORP Members

$650

Visitor Use Management Training Available

Bring this training to your team or region. Please contact SORP to learn more about how we can partner to continue this learning and collaboration.

Sample Virtual Event Schedule

Day One

10:00 am -12:00 pm MT
Session 1: History and Background of VUM

This session will explore the evolution of Visitor Use Management (VUM) concepts and introduce the Visitor Use Management Framework. Participants will gain foundational knowledge to support scenario-based learning and get an overview of the training structure, including the five real-world inspired scenarios that will guide interactive group work throughout the training.



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1:00 - 3:00 pm MT
Session 2: Build the Foundation 

This session will focus on the first element of the VUM Framework: Building the Foundation. Participants will learn how to assess project complexity using the Sliding Scale of Analysis and explore strategies for identifying a planning team, defining purpose and need, and engaging stakeholders and the public in meaningful ways.

Day Two

10:00 am - 12:00 pm MT
Session 3: Define Visitor Use Management Direction

This session will focus on Element 2 of the VUM Framework. Participants will explore how to define desired conditions, determine appropriate levels of use, and identify indicators, thresholds, and triggers to help assess progress and inform management decisions.

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1:00 - 3:00 pm MT
Session 4: Identify Management Strategies

In this session, participants will dive into Element 3 of the VUM Framework. Participants will identify management actions that support desired conditions, explore the role of visitor capacities, and examine strategies and tools for effective monitoring to support adaptive management.

Day Three

10:00 am - 12:00 pm MT
Session 5: Implement, Monitor, Evaluate, and Adjust

This session will cover Element 4 of the VUM Framework, focusing on the implementation and monitoring of management actions. Participants will learn how to track progress through conditions reporting, evaluate effectiveness, and adjust strategies to ensure desired conditions are met.

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1:00 - 3:00 pm MT
Session 6: Scenario Debrief & Key Points

In this final session, participants will reflect on their scenario work, share insights during a flip chart group debrief, and engage in a gallery walk to explore the outcomes of other groups. We will also discuss other frameworks, the limitations of the VUM Framework, and highlight key takeaways from the training to ensure practical application of the concepts learned.

What People Say About Our Training

Contact

Please reach out to Angie Braley if you have any questions about our upcoming training.