Title: Describe the benefits of outdoor recreation and protected areas.
Course: Outdoor Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Systems Management (18549) > Section: Promoting Leisure and Recreation Enterprises

Description should include a discussion of personal, societal, environmental, and economic benefits such as

- how outdoor recreation activities assist in the mitigation of the health crisis stemming from physical inactivity and obesity, and the contribution of physical inactivity and obesity to chronic diseases
- how outdoor recreational activities can reduce depression, improve self-esteem, and promote personal growth
- how recreational facilities promote social bonds, cultural sensitivity, and support seniors and persons with disabilities
- the benefits of natural landscapes and historic sites
- the importance of public lands and the preservation of natural resources and wildlife areas
- the economic impact of outdoor recreation and protected areas.

Teacher Resources:

- Parks, Recreation, and Green Spaces, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Virginia Outdoors Plan 2024, VDCR

Process/Skill Questions:

- How can participating in outdoor recreational activities promote personal and societal health?
- How do outdoor recreational activities encourage cultural awareness and sensitivity? Why are culturally responsible practices important?
- Why are public lands and the preservation of natural resources and wildlife important to humanity?
- Why are outdoor recreation and protected areas important to the economy?