Southwestern Region
333 Broadway SE [map]
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 842-3292
TTY: (505) 842-3198

Recreation Facility Analysis

Seven Step Process

The RFA process involves seven steps, each bringing the forest's developed recreation sites in closer alignment with each forest's unique characteristics, projected demand, visitor expectations and revenue.

Step 1: Prepare Site Inventory & Financial Data

Forest recreation-site facility inventory and associated financial data is updated. Participants determine preliminary operation and maintenance (O&M), and deferred maintenance (DM) estimates for each recreation site.

Step 2: Identify Unit Recreation Program Niche

Recreation-visitor use and market data are examined to determine the focus of the forest's recreation program. Participants develop map that displays the forest's recreation settings and summary paragraph that characterizes the forest's unique recreation program "niche."

Step 3: Identify Operational Efficiencies

Recreation sites are examined to determine if efficiencies can be undertaken to further reduce site expenditures or eliminate deferred maintenance. Participants determine a proposed set of management options for each site to reduce costs.

Step 4: Rank Recreation Sites

Recreation sites are rated through the use of a series of questions involving the sites' conformance with the forest recreation program niche; their financial and operational efficiency; their effects on environmental sustainability; and their effects on community stability. Participants develop a proposed ranking of sites.

Step 5: Propose 5-year Program of Work to Stakeholders

The proposed 5-year program of work for recreation sites is prepared based upon the analysis completed in the previous four steps. Broader discussions with stakeholders are sought to explore alternative ways of operating sites or building new partnerships.

Step 6: Finalize 5-year Proposed Program of Work

The 5-year program of work for recreation sites is refined, based upon the broader discussions with stakeholders.

Step 7: Implementation

Annually, site-specific steps are proposed to implement the 5-year program of work for recreation sites. Prior to implementation, National Environmental Policy Act and other agency coordination requirements are completed.