Environmental Preference and Risk Recreation: The Case of White Water Kayakers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine environmental preferences in one-risk recreation activity. The sample comprised participants in the white water kayaking program at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in North Carolina. Using a mail survey, the author found that this sample prefers a natural environment, scenery, and clean river water but is rather indifferent to man-made manipulations such as comfort facilities and paved access roads. Using analysis of variance, the author found skill-level differences among novice, intermediate, and advanced kayakers on 7 of the 14 items. The implications of this study should prompt further theoretical work in other risk recreation activities, recreation specialization, and the psychological needs of river users. For the manager, this research suggests more integrative approaches to management of river resources.