Outdoor Recreation Research and Education for the 21st Century: Defining National Direction and Building Capacity

Abstract

Outdoor recreation has emerged as an important way in which forests contribute to national public health and prosperity. This article builds a case for strengthening science and education-based programs to address outdoor recreation management challenges and train the next generation of natural resource leaders. We describe a national-level effort to develop a 5-year strategic plan for outdoor recreation research and education. Outcomes from this strategic plan are elaborated and a call to action is issued. The forestry community needs to seize this political opportunity to bring about real change on the ground—change that builds a healthier and more prosperous America.

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