Original Post by Niesa McMIllan:

McCool, Clark, and Stankey (2007, 113-115) discuss the evolution of recreation framework as a process in which recreation planners utilize several frameworks to address the diverse and complex nature in recreation planning. These various frameworks offer a range of experience and research; although, these experiences did not initially foster a formalized approach to recreation planning. The process of recreation planning slowly evolved and is still evolving into a more formalized set of frameworks that may be applied to various situations. Still, the authors point out the inconsistencies in appropriately evaluating performance indicators for the purpose of determining which frameworks perform best. Collaborative efforts between recreation planners and scientists have produced successful management outcomes; however, this ideology has not been widely implemented and while few have adopted the protocol with success, the evolution towards proven, innovative frameworks is somewhat sluggish.

McCool, Stephen F., Clark, Roger N., and Stankey, George. 2007. “An assessment of frameworks useful for public land recreation planning.” Gen. Tech Rep. PNW-GTR-705. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2737/PNW-GTR-705

My Comment:

Excellent and concise articulation of evolution in the public land recreation planning context. I contend that the various frameworks differ due to the range of experience and research. It is interesting that formalizing the frameworks defines evolution. So, while evolution is more so based on refining the frameworks that already exist, revolution is more so reworking the foundational elements of each. To better understand the evolutionary approach, it would be useful to have a clear understanding of framework qualities that fall under the umbrella of it being more formalized. It is interesting that the frameworks do not need to be compared. Rather, they are designed to improve individually and then collaboratively function together.