Comparing the Accuracy and Utility of Different Vehicle Counters in Public Land Contexts

BLM Technical Note 462

Creating accurate use estimates is important to support a variety of businesses needs for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and other land management entities. Automated counting devices are nearly universally used for estimating use, but the scientific literature demonstrates the need to calibrate these devices to ensure they are accurate. However, there is scant research on the differences between the accuracy of automated vehicle counters when used on public lands and in similar protected areas. This research compares the accuracy of different automated vehicle counter technologies through a calibration process. Results show that pneumatic tube and radar counters are much more accurate than magnetic counters, so much so that calibration is rarely warranted. A qualitative assessment of these technologies is also provided to support field staff in selecting the appropriate equipment for their unique conditions.