Serving the needs of Latino recreation visitors to urban proximate natural resource recreation areas

Abstract

A major shift has occurred in the ethnic and racial profile of the United States, with large increases in the Latino population. Beyond the demographic profiles are the influences on other aspects of life in the United States, including urban-proximate natural resource recreation area management. Latino groups may have different expectations about natural resource recreation areas, different barriers to participation, and different site development preferences than other groups. The information provided in this article is based on 17 research projects over the past 16 years conducted mostly in southern California. Suggestions for serving the needs of the rapidly increasing Latino population are offered. These suggestions relate to communications, development of recreation sites, use of partnerships and cooperation, and provision of employment opportunities.

Parent Publication

• Recreation visitor research: studies of diversity

Citation

Chavez, Deborah J. 2008. Serving the needs of Latino recreation visitors to urban proximate natural resource recreation areas. In: Chavez, Deborah J.; Winter, Patricia L.; Absher, James D., eds. Recreation visitor research: studies of diversity. Gen. Tech. Rep. PSW-GTR-210. Albany, CA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station. 53-62. Chapter 5.