Title: (Optional) Develop a plan for gathering data on the use of a recreational area.
Course: Outdoor Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Systems Management (18549) > Section: Managing Recreational Areas

Development should include techniques of gathering data, such as

- surveys
- public input from users and nonusers
- traffic or trail counters
- economic impact studies
- anecdotal feedback.

Teacher Resource: Evaluation Resource Hub, National Recreation and Park Association

Process/Skill Questions:

- What mode of data collection would be most productive for a certain scenario?
- What is the value of collecting data from both users and nonusers of a recreational area?
- What is the best way to get visitors to answer surveys?
- What is the purpose of an economic impact study? What data can be drawn from the study to make sound decisions?
- How can data inform management?