Thesis (M.S.)--State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, 2000
An exploratory and descriptive study of recreational leasing of industrial forestlands in the State of New York was conducted to better understand lease programs and the lessees involved in these programs. During the summer of 1999, thirteen companies were sent mail surveys and 9 responded (response rate of 69%). Five hundred and forty leaseholders were sent surveys and 362 responded (deliverable response rate of 68%). Recreationally leased forestlands accounted for nearly 75% of the total forestland included in the study. General industrial forest company and leaseholder characteristics were described and specific relationships were tested. Industrial forest managers can use this type of information to better manage their lands for producing quality outdoor recreation experiences in addition to traditional commercial forest products
Previously, little was known about the satisfaction levels of the leaseholders involved in recreational lease programs. An Importance-Performance analysis was used in this study to visually display lessee importance and satisfaction ratings for fifteen lease attributes. Overall, lessees were satisfied with their recreational lease of industrial forestland. Specifically, they were most satisfied with their access, the scenic quality, and the absence of litter on their leased land. Leaseholders were most dissatisfied with the price, presence of illegal trespassers, and appearance and amount of timber harvesting on their leased land. In general, industrial forest managers were able to accurately predict lessee importance and satisfaction ratings for the 14 lease attributes. This type of analysis is a useful tool for managers to monitor leaseholder satisfaction and, subsequently, to guide land management decisions
