European Forest Recreation Policies and Possible United States Implications

Publisher： Society of American Foresters

ISSN： 0022-1201

Source： Journal of Forestry, Vol.67, Iss.12, 1969-12, pp. : 881-885

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Abstract

In 1967 the author studied forest recreation use and policy, primarily in Germany, Switzerland, and Great Britain. Unlike U.S. citizens, Europeans were found to be more tradition-oriented, obedient to authoritarian governmental rules. People walk more, and good railway connections carry hikers from cities to the trails. These conditions are reflected in recreation developments and forest-use policies. Provision is made for walking trails and simple camping facilities, often in close proximity to or within commercial forests. Even with large populations near their forests these European nations provide for regulated public use. User regulation is better accepted and understood, and user organizations, as yet, have little influence on forest recreation policy. Yet there is concern that tradition and historic perspective may impede careful recreation planning.