Natural areas and urban populations: communication and environmental education challenges and actions in outdoor recreation

This paper applies existing research to the consideration of a number of challenges associated with the intersection of urban populations and natural areas with a focus on Latino populations in southern California. These challenges include intense recreation use, public safety, and the provision of information. Research-based solutions to these challenges are described including hiring people of color into the workforce, adapting communication styles, and seeking input through diverse, targeted channels. Three innovative outreach programs and the applied research that informed their development are presented: the Forest Information Van, Eco-teams, and a nature park within urban Los Angeles, the Augustus F. Hawkins Nature Park.