Industry Research

AORE and its members are leaders in promoting and conducting research on the outdoor recreation and education industry. Whether you are a program director, recreation department employee, trip leader, vendor representative, professional researcher, or student, or you are interested in the latest trends and statistics on outdoor recreation in education settings, you will find something of value here.


Recent AORE Member Research Projects

University Outdoor Recreation Facilities Services Survey 

SUMMARY

This survey was conducted August thru September of 2022 to determine the scope of services provided by universities that operate outdoor recreation services especially related to bicycling services. The survey was conducted informally and not sanctioned by Michigan State University.  MSU is in the process of planning and designing a new health and wellness center on their campus and considering many different sorts of possible services that might be offered in the new center including outdoor adventure services.

RESEARCHERS & INVESTIGATORS

  • Tim Potter, Sustainable Transportation Manager, MSU Bikes Service Center, Michigan State University

View the Report


Contemporary Issues, Opportunities, and Resources for the U.S. Outdoor Recreation Profession 

SUMMARY

This study examines the contemporary issues, opportunities, and resource needs of U.S. outdoor recreation professionals. AORE and SORP (Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals) members shared their perspectives during focus groups in Spring 2021. Results highlight the overall development in the field of outdoor recreation and can inform future advocacy and planning by professional organizations.

RESEARCHERS & INVESTIGATORS

  • Diana Harrison, M.S. Student, Old Dominion University

  • Caleb Scruggs, Park Ranger, Olympic National Park

  • Michala Hendrick, Coordinator, Rensselaer Youth Outdoors, Forest Conservation Corps

  • Bryant Morales, Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Hilton Hotels & Resorts

  • Jasmine Jones, M.S. Student, Old Dominion University

  • Brendan Kane, Interpretative Ranger, Mammoth Cave National Park

  • Iris Perkins, M.A. Student, Old Dominion University

  • Chris Zajchowski, Assistant Professor, Old Dominion University

View the Report


Underserved Communities & Campus Outdoor Recreation Programs 

SUMMARY
This report examines the challenges experienced and benefits received by campus outdoor recreation programs that provide recreation opportunities to individuals outside the student body and campus community.  In particular, it considers the challenges and benefits of providing services to individuals from historically underserved communities. 

RESEARCHERS & INVESTIGATORS

  • Geneviève Marchand, PhD, Assistant Professor, Humboldt State University
  • Julia Marsh, Wildlands & Forest Policy, Fellow, The Wilderness Society
  • Paul Sanford, National Director of Recreation Policy, the Wilderness Society

View the Report


Outdoor Programs Census

OVERVIEW

The Research Project Team has been working to develop a Descriptive Analysis of Campus Outdoor Programs. That is, they aim to capture and better understand the scope of the Campus Outdoor Program industry in higher education. The first specific topic explored was a Collegiate Outdoor Program Compensation Survey. 

RESULTS

Initial findings were shared in an AORE Association Chat in June of 2022, you can watch the recording of this session below. Final findings are expected to be shared with participants and available for general review here in early Fall 2022. 

RESEARCHERS & INVESTIGATORS

  • Geneviève Marchand, PhD, Humboldt State University
  • Erik Rabinowitz, PhD, Appalachian State University
  • Forrest Schwartz, PhD, Prescott College
  • Andrew Szolosi, PhD, Ohio University

Association Chat Recording


Other Organizations' Research Projects and Publication