Outdoor recreation research and education for the 21st century: Defining national direction and building capacity

摘要

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 isissued. 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.