Attitudes, Participation, and Trends In Outdoor Recreation Among Florida Statewide Residents

	Speakers:
	Brijesh Thapa Assistant Professor (Ph.D.), Center for Tourism Research and Development Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism University of Florida		Lori Pennington-Gray Assistant Professor (Ph.D.)
	Stephen M. Holland Associate Professor (Ph.D.)
	Description: Changing demographics, most notably, the aging population and the increase in ethnic/racial groups have been considered to be major factors affecting patterns of participation in outdoor recreation. These factors are highly relevant to Florida and will most likely have an impact in participation in parks and public lands in the near future. Hence, natural resource agencies and managers must be able to adapt, attract and serve the changing faces and needs of the community to better optimize satisfaction. The purpose of this study was to document activity trends; visitor participation, attitudes and opinions about various types of facilities and issues that would further encourage participation in Florida. A statewide survey (n=3610) of permanent Florida residents (aged 18 or older) was conducted during late April to mid June 2001via telephone (random digit-dial samples of household) to residents of the 67 counties. The mode sample categories for this study ranged in age from 24 to 44 (34.4%); were Caucasian (85.4%), earned less than $39,999 (44.9%); 41.7% noted to live in a farm/ranch area; were moderately educated, and almost evenly distributed between males and females. Visiting Saltwater Beaches followed by participating in Outdoor Swimming Pools, and Visiting Historical or Archeological Sites were the most participated activities. Overall, respondents agreed that more outdoor facilities was needed, and the existing facilities needed better repair. However, respondents lamented over lower fees/no fees, access to more information about facilities, and increased accessibility to parks and public lands in order to encourage and facilitate outdoor recreation participation. Furthermore, respondents strongly identified with the need to maintain current funding levels, and possibly to also increase funds for public parks while also expressing support for more land acquisition. Also, respondents supported the idea of increasing accessibility to the general public, and especially for people with disabilities. The results indicate an overall support for Parks and Public Lands in Florida.