Community Conversations Around Public Lands: Exploring Benefi cial Outcomes in the Wood River Valley

Authors

  • Megha Budruk
  • Randy Virden
  • M. Troy Waskey

Keywords:

recreation management, benefits, beneficial outcomes approach to leisure

Abstract

The Beneficial Outcomes Approach to Leisure (BOAL) continues to gain importance in public land planning and management. BOAL has evolved as a collaborative process whereby managers utilize information gained from stakeholders to guide management strategies. In this paradigm, recreation activities and settings are organized and marketed to create the experiences and beneficial outcomes desired by visitors and other relevant stakeholders. This study describes beneficial outcomes attained by motorized and non-motorized recreation in two potential management zones of the Wood River Valley, Idaho. Qualitative data were obtained through focus groups conducted in the winter and summer of 2006. Results indicated common beneficial outcomes across zone and activity style. Overall, respondents indicated improved physical, mental, and spiritual well-being and reduced stress as important personal beneficial outcomes. Furthermore, social interaction, increased sense of community, increased tourism, increased business for local shops, and creating land stewards were common social, economic, and environmental benefit outcomes. Unique beneficial outcomes by zone and user group type were also reported. Implications and recommendations are provided concerning future research, management, and marketing strategies.?

Published

2009-01-18

Issue

Section

Regular Papers