WASHINGTON, D.C. — Do you prefer to visit forests in "semi-primitive nonmotorized" settings or are you more of a "roaded natural" type of person? For recreation managers, considering the settings and opportunities landscapes offer is integral to sustainable management. The Recreation Opportunity Spectrum system classifies recreational opportunities into categories—from primitive to urban—which direct planning and management. Visitors to National Forest System lands choose specific settings for the activities and experiences they desire.

ROS was originally developed in response to the 1976 National Forest Management Act requirements for integrating all uses of National Forest System lands; it is the agency's system for managing recreation settings and environments and is embedded across our regulations, policies and directives, which are in alignment with the 2012 Planning Rule.

Recreation employees have grappled with how exactly the ROS system functions, so earlier this year, the WO and Enterprise Program's Recreation and Communications, Education, and Training teams joined forces to create new ROS guidance fit for the 21st century. The project team developed a timeless technical guide and quick-reference poster that employees at all levels across the agency can use for ROS management.

The products will serve as relevant and accessible teaching tools. “A lot of folks in recreation may not fully understand ROS, especially new folks coming in,” explains Elizabeth Whitt, Enterprise Recreation Specialist and Project Manager. “The main goal is to educate our internal folks because there is a lack of awareness of [ROS].” The guide is versatile enough to be applied in scenarios ranging from forest planning to project implementation. 

Aimee Thompson, CET graphic designer, created graphics for the products that showcase visitor diversity and a broad range of outdoor activities. Samantha “Sam” Rider, national recreation planner and project partner, explains, “We wanted to stomp out the notion that enjoying forest lands is limited to certain types of people ... and we want any products we put out there to reflect how welcoming we want forest lands to be.” 

Forests and grasslands can order a copy of the ROS poster from the WO warehouse via the online ordering app.