| Rural Tourism and Recreation (RTR) is defined here as activities engaged during leisure time located in rural areas and focuses on the areas that lie between the outer edge of the urban fringe and the wilderness. The study recognizes several forces that are contributing to an increase in demand for access to rural areas. Additionally, it acknowledges a changing agricultural industry that is seeking new alternatives to diversify farm incomes. Specifically, the study addresses planning issues related to family-based RTR enterprises and evaluates factors that influence the supply of privately owned land for recreational use.;The study proposes that there are numerous variables that should be considered in RTR development. These variables are then grouped into eight categories and include (1) Access; (2) Competition for Rural Resources; (3) Attractions, Amenities, and Activities; (4) Social Interaction; (5) Physical Environment; (6) Business Skill and Knowledge; (7) Finance and Economics and (8) Public Policies. This study focuses on issues that RTR enterprise developers should consider. Additionally, it provides information that could be used by public authorities in determining recreational land use strategies and establishing policies. (Abstract shortened by UMI.). |
