Recreation
Every year, millions of people all over the world choose to spend their vacation and leisure time in forests. In part, this is because the forests offer a wide range of choices for activities, including fishing, hiking, boating, skiing, hunting, and much more. These days of holiday enjoyment have an intrinsic value-but they also have an economic value. One study of forest economics in Michigan found that, when various costs were factored into the balance, tourism provided more economic gain than any other forest-based industries.
What does this use mean for the forest? As demand for outdoor recreational facilities rises, forest management authorities have to budget for access roads, camp sites, parking lots, beach facilities, docks, and so on, and try to minimize the damage these uses cause to the forest and the animals who live in it. Some popular uses, such as driving off-road vehicles, can damage habitat. Many public forests have strict regulations that are intended to protect the forest ecosystems.
Other Uses of Forests: Recreation >>
USDA Forest Service Information: Recreational Activities >>
