The value of research in recreation fee project implementation

Abstract

In a survey of Forest Service managers responsible for implementation of recreation fee programs, research skills were perceived to provide little benefit to business or communications planning. A majority of managers reported, however, that they used research data they collected or contracted for when developing and implementing their fee programs. They rated the usefulness of that information very high relative to other sources used. Few reports of formal studies prior to fee implementation suggest that a substantial part of the research that occurred was very casual in nature. Since implementation, most managers are not collecting any information to help evaluate success or failure of the fee program to accomplish program objectives

Citation

Absher, James D.; McCollum, Daniel W.; Bowker, J. Michael. 1999. The value of research in recreation fee project implementation. Journal of Park and Recreation Administration. 17(3): 116-120.