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Change of scenery: New research outlines how recreation will shift with climate change in the west

New research outlines how climate change will shift the future of outdoor recreation in the West, with campsites becoming too hot, ski resorts experiencing fluctuating snowpacks, and rivers facing low water levels. The study provides activity-specific adaptation strategies to prepare for these consequences.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalJournal of Forestry·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 25, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

How racialized trauma functions as a barrier to enjoying nature

A new analysis of focus groups reveals that historical trauma shapes many Black and Indigenous Americans' views about using public lands for leisure. Participants noted historical injustices and feeling unwelcome in nature-based spaces, yet continued to engage with nature despite these feelings.

SourceOhio State University·JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living·DateFeb 18, 2022

OSU research uncovers impact of leisure activities on mental health during pandemic

A recent OSU study found that engaging in leisure activities can help lower the risk of depression and improve mental well-being during the pandemic. The results showed that people who reported higher stress also engaged more in their preferred leisure activity, which served as a protective buffer.

SourceOregon State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 17, 2022

Future of winter: UNH researchers find low emissions vital to slow warming

Researchers at UNH found that reducing carbon dioxide emissions can preserve almost three weeks of snow cover and below freezing temperatures. This preservation is critical for woodland animals, preventing the spread of invasive pests, and maintaining ski resorts' ability to make snow.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalNortheastern Naturalist·DateFeb 3, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Farther or faster? Both improve distance running performance

A recent study found that block periodization with either increased low-intensity training volume or high-intensity interval training improved endurance performance in recreational athletes. Both methods resulted in average time improvements of 11-13 seconds on a 3000m run.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJan 26, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Older African Americans more physically active in ‘green’ neighborhoods

Research from Florida Atlantic University suggests that older adults living in walkable neighborhoods with greenspaces benefit from increased physical activity, with 5.4 minutes of daily neighborhood walking associated with African Americans and 3 minutes for whites

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 19, 2021

Helmet use reduces moderate or severe head injuries in youths riding ATVs and dirt bikes

The study analyzed data from 680 patients aged 1-17 who were involved in ATV or dirt bike crashes. Helmeted riders had lower rates of neurosurgical consultation, intracranial injury, moderate or severe traumatic brain injury, and required fewer neurosurgical procedures compared to unhelmeted riders.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery Pediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2021

The road more traveled: Predicting trail choices based on OHV drivers' motivations

Researchers found that OHV drivers' motivations influence the routes they choose, with distinct patterns emerging for different groups. The study's findings can help managers predict which trails are likely to be used and craft targeted messages to promote responsible behavior and conservation-minded practices.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalJournal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism·TypeSurvey·DateOct 1, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Study raises questions about access to urban parks during the pandemic

A new study found that urban park use declined in North Carolina during the pandemic, disproportionately affecting minorities and lower-income backgrounds. The study used survey responses and cell phone tracking data to analyze outdoor park use across the state.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Cities·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2021

Steep but not deep: New research chronicles how Utah ski resorts are adapting to climate change

Researchers chronicle how Utah ski resort managers are adopting adaptive tactics to cope with decreasing snowpack, shorter seasons and worsening weather. Managers are exploring alternative revenue streams through activities like mountain biking and festivals.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalMountain Research and Development·TypeSurvey·DateSep 28, 2021

Racial, ethnic differences in cannabis use following legalization

A recent survey-based study reveals racial and ethnic differences in cannabis use following the legalization of recreational cannabis. The study found that cannabis use increased disproportionately among Black and Hispanic populations compared to White individuals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 27, 2021

Rising temperatures reshape when and how much people get outdoors on public lands

Rising temperatures are projected to decrease outdoor recreation during summers by 18% over the next 30 years, but increase winter recreation by 12% in mid-century. This shift may lead to a decline in popular winter sports like downhill skiing and an increase in winter mountain biking.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Analyzing marijuana legalization, use among high schoolers

A new study published in JAMA Network Open analyzed the relationship between marijuana legalization and adolescent use, finding no significant association. The researchers used updated estimates from survey data, concluding that state-level marijuana legalization does not impact teenage marijuana use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 7, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Tourist-tourist rapport: SFU expert on why it matters

A new study by Simon Fraser University researchers found that building rapport among tourists can significantly increase satisfaction with guided group tours. The study identified four key aspects of tourist-tourist rapport and showed that high levels of rapport lead to improved overall experience, while low levels decrease satisfactio...

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalTourism Management·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

Research reveals why people pick certain campsites

A University of Montana study analyzed nearly 23,000 reservations at Watchman Campground in Zion National Park to identify the key drivers of demand. The researchers found that price and electricity were the largest influencers, followed by proximity to the river and ease of access.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateJun 14, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

New fishing tech may pose risks to fisheries, says study co-authored by UMass researcher

A new study co-authored by UMass researcher Andy Danylchuk warns that advances in recreational fishing technology can have significant impacts on fish ecosystems. The study emphasizes the need for resource management agencies to share their experiences and for scientists to intensively study the effects of technological innovations.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalReviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries·DateMay 24, 2021

Study finds high-speed ferries, recreational boats are big noise polluters in SF Bay

A new study found that high-speed ferries and recreational boats produce substantial underwater noise in San Francisco Bay, affecting gray and humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins. The researchers used radar tracking technology to quantify vessel noise, revealing that ferries generate more noise than large commercial ships.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateMay 19, 2021

Doctors still reluctant to prescribe medical cannabis: McMaster

Despite growing demand, Ontario doctors are hesitant to prescribe medical cannabis due to potential ill-effects and limited knowledge about its effectiveness as a painkiller. The study highlights the need for more evidence, education, and guidance to help physicians better assist patients seeking this treatment.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCMAJ Open·DateApr 13, 2021

Cannabis legalization and link to increase in fatal collisions

Legalization of recreational cannabis may be associated with a small but significant increase in fatal motor vehicle collisions. The number of individuals who reported driving after recent cannabis use increased significantly after legalization.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 6, 2021

Recreational blue crab harvest in Maryland higher than current estimates

A recent study using tagging and mark-recapture methods found that Maryland's recreational blue crab harvest amounts to 11% of the total male commercial take, compared to the previous estimate of 8%. The study aimed to provide a more accurate picture of recreational crabbing in the state.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateMar 18, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Conservation paradox - the pros and cons of recreational hunting

Scientists reviewed over 1,000 studies on recreational hunting, finding both environmental and social benefits, as well as detrimental effects. The research highlights the need for more analysis to understand how recreational hunting can work for good and in which areas it can be detrimental.

SourceFlinders University·JournalOne Earth·DateFeb 19, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Making swimming pools safer by reducing chlorine disinfection byproducts

Researchers have discovered that combining copper-silver ionization with lower amounts of chlorine can decrease disinfection byproducts and cell toxicity in chlorinated pool water. This approach may help mitigate respiratory problems, such as asthma, associated with swimming pool exposure.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 17, 2021

Co-use of alcohol and marijuana and beliefs among teens

A study found that teens in Oregon counties with high retail outlet densities for marijuana and alcohol had increased co-use and beliefs favoring use. The results suggest that social access to these substances is more likely than commercial.

SourcePacific Institute for Research and Evaluation·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateJan 31, 2021

Diversity and group knowledge

Researchers found that diverse groups created models closer to expert-developed models than homogenous groups. This highlights the benefit of diversity in collective problem-solving for complex issues like fisheries management.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Identifying Canada's key conservation hot spots highlights problem

A recent study identifies Canada's most critical areas for ecosystem services, including freshwater, carbon storage, and nature-based recreation. The research highlights the need to protect these areas from human activities that threaten their conservation.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 5, 2021

Haunted house researchers investigate the mystery of playing with fear

A study published in Psychological Science reveals that enjoying a fearful experience, like a haunted house, requires finding the perfect balance of fear and enjoyment. The researchers found an inverted U-shape trend showing that too little or too much fear can decrease enjoyment, while just-right fear levels maximize it.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 26, 2020

Camera traps show impact of recreational activity on wildlife

Researchers used camera traps to monitor wildlife and human trail use in South Chilcotin Mountains Provincial Park, finding that wildlife tends to avoid places recently visited by recreational users. The study highlights the need to balance outdoor recreation with potential disruption of ecosystems and loss of species.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateSep 24, 2020

Sutter receives funding for collaboration of care

The project aims to enhance healthcare services by providing behavioral health training and social work intern support. By the end of the project, 80% of trained staff are expected to report increased competence in addressing clients with behavioral health issues.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateSep 18, 2020

New Great Lakes model improves operational forecast system

A new Great Lakes model has been developed to improve the operational forecast system, providing more accurate predictions of water levels, temperatures, and currents. The model incorporates data assimilation techniques, which combine observational data and numerical model results to produce a more accurate estimate.

SourceMichigan Technological University·DateSep 16, 2020
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Why walking to work may be better for you than a casual stroll

A new study published in the Journal of Transport and Health found that walking to work can significantly improve a person's self-rated health compared to casual strolls. People who walked primarily for utilitarian purposes, such as commuting to work, reported better health than those who walked mostly for leisure.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·DateAug 12, 2020

Fish reef domes a boon for environment, recreational fishing

Research by UNSW Sydney and NSW DPI Fisheries found that artificial reefs in estuaries with limited natural reef can increase fish abundance significantly. The study revealed a 20-fold increase in fish populations in the reef areas compared to bare sand habitats, benefiting recreational fishing and environmental conservation.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJul 16, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

BU researchers: 'Gun culture 3.0' is missing link to understand US gun culture

A new study finds differences in gun culture across the US, with three strands identified: recreational use, self-defense, and Second Amendment advocacy. Gun Culture 3.0 is characterized by fear of government threats and increased in states with stricter gun laws.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·DateJul 10, 2020

Cannabis in Michigan: New report documents trends before recreational legalization

A comprehensive new report by the University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center documents cannabis trends in Michigan, including increased use among Michiganders, revenue generated for the state, and growing public health concerns related to cannabis use disorder, motor vehicle crashes and emergency department visits. The report prov...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateJun 4, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Study detects presence of disease-causing E. coli in recreational waters, including in bathing waters rated excellent under EU criteria

A recent study found disease-causing E. coli in recreational waters across Ireland, including those rated excellent under EU criteria. The research highlights the limitations of current water quality assessments, which only consider total E. coli counts without accounting for pathogenic variants.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 17, 2020

Against overfishing: save the oldies!

Researchers found that harvest slots can outperform classic minimum-length limits in maximizing kilogram yields while protecting large spawning fish and maintaining ecosystem diversity. This approach stabilizes population dynamics without causing loss in yields, increasing the average size of catch fish.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateMar 16, 2020

Updated shark tagging atlas provides more than 50 years of tagging and recapture data

The updated atlas provides detailed profiles for 14 shark species, including bull and tiger sharks, and significantly extends their known ranges and movements. The data collected through the Cooperative Shark Tagging Program has filled in gaps in the geographic distributions and movements of most shark species.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalMarine Fisheries Review·DateJan 31, 2020

Recreational fishers catching more sharks and rays

A new study reveals that recreational catches of sharks and rays have grown to account for 54,000 tonnes of the total 900,000 tonnes caught every year. Many species are already threatened due to commercial fishing and illegal activities.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateJan 27, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Study identifies way for employers to retain casual workers

A University of Waterloo study found that positive feelings about work in general and a psychological attachment to the organization are crucial for casual workers to return the following year. Job enrichment was shown to increase work engagement and organizational commitment among seasonal student workers.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalManaging Sport and Leisure·DateDec 17, 2019

Use changes after recreational marijuana legalization

After recreational marijuana legalization, past-year cannabis use disorder among 12-17 year-olds increased from 2.18% to 2.72%. Frequent marijuana use among 26+ year-olds also increased, from 2.13% to 2.62%, and those with cannabis disorder rose from 0.90% to 1.23%. No association found among 18-25 year-olds.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 13, 2019

Study shows trampoline injuries have increased over the past decade

Trampoline-related fractures among children increased by an average of 3.85% from 2008 to 2017, with most injuries occurring outside the home at places of recreation or sport. The study suggests that trampoline parks and gyms may be contributing to the rising incidence of trampoline fractures.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateOct 25, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Another casualty of climate change? Recreational fishing

New research from North Carolina State University and Oregon State University predicts a decline in recreational fishing participation due to climate change, with temperature extremes having the greatest impact. The study forecasts a 2.6% decline by 2080 under stringent mitigation efforts, but warns of a 15% drop if no action is taken.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists·DateOct 7, 2019

Private boats in the Mediterranean have extremely high potential to spread alien species

A study by the University of Pavia found that Mediterranean private boats have a high potential to spread alien species through biofouling. Boats traveling to new marinas were likely to be transporting alien species, with visible biofouling in niche areas such as ladders and propellers being key predictors of high species richness.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateSep 25, 2019

UTIA student wins national scholarship from The Wilderness Society

Cristina Watkins, a UTIA doctoral student, has won a national scholarship to study the connection between wilderness areas and diverse societies. Her research focuses on socio-demographic groups' values of wilderness areas and creating accessible opportunities for minority groups in outdoor recreation.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateAug 29, 2019
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Looking out for the little guys

Researchers found high genetic diversity within and between baitfish assemblages from different locations around Bermuda. The study suggests that the island's baitfish species are highly mixed populations with limited gene flow to other regions.

SourceBermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 7, 2019