Assessment of recreation needs and issues in Tennessee as perceived by recreation providers

This thesis looks at the perceptions of recreation providers regarding needs, issues, and barriers in recreation in Tennessee. In particular, it focuses on if perceptions differ by geographic region, levels of government, public vs. private sector, and various subgroups.

The research instrument used was a Delphi survey which was sent to various public and private recreation providers across the state. The question of funding was the most important factor according to the participants in different geographic areas. The participants had different ideas concerning the use of funding for facility development and natural resource protection.

The participants at different levels of government had their own ideas of recreation issues. The main differences in perceptions concerned natural resource protection, education of government officials, and funding.

The main differences between public and private recreation participants concerned funding also. The respondents had different opinions of whether funding should be provided at the state, regional, or local level.

In the analysis, there were subgroups which were identified. One major subgroup was environmentally based groups. This group was interested in natural resource protection and funding for facility maintenance. Other subgroups which were identified were administrative, operational, harvesters, rural, and urban groups.

The different groups of participants had many areas of common interest. The participants, as a whole, felt that funding should be primarily allocated to natural resource protection and facility maintenance. Also, there was a consensus that such issues as natural environment protection, education of public officials, and public awareness were important.

As a result of the analysis certain conclusions were reached. First of all, there is a need for further research to identify alternatives for increased funding. In addition, a policy which promotes the protection of our natural resources should be established. Finally, the public and the politicians should be educated about the benefits of recreation.