The private sector and recreation
Private Sector 60% of land in the US is privately owned. Includes properties under non-government organization, individual, and commercial ownership.
Individual ownership Backyards Wood lots Wetlands Water bodies Agricultural lands Summer home properties Other open space
Why are these lands important for recreation? Often located near population centers. Used as access to public lands. Reduces crowding at public sites. Can serve specific user needs. Funding is not from the public sector. Adds to the tax base.
Negative impacts of recreation on private lands Vandalism Trespassing Littering Liability issues Loss of privacy
Commercial ownership Timber harvesting operations Power & water companies Agricultural corporations Rail road companies Commercial recreation businesses
Commercial Recreation Businesses Lodging facilities Retail businesses Entertainment Activities and programs Food and beverages Recreation facilities Recreation services Concessions on government land
Positive Impacts of Commercial Recreation Tax revenues Visitor expenditures Business profitability Boost local economy Employment opportunities Resource protection
Negative Impacts of Commercial Recreation Increased cost of living Increased impacts on resources Increased social conflicts (e.g., user-manager)
Business Structures Sole proprietorship Partnership Limited Liability Partnership “C” Corporation “S” Corporation
Sole Proprietorship Single owner business Owner gets to make all decisions Owner receives profits Owner responsible for debts Owner is personally liable Example: www.crosswinstrekking.homestead.com
Partnership Two or more owners of business Owners share decision making Owners share profits Owners share debts Owners are personally liable Example: www.fishdoctorcharters.com
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) One or more managing partners + one or more limited liability (LL) partners Managing partner(s) makes decisions Managing partner(s) responsible for debt LL Partner gives up right to make decisions in exchange for limited liability
“C” Corporation Business is set up as a separate legal entity Managed by board of directors Members of board of directors are not personally liable Able to sell investment shares Example: www.campjellystone.com/welcome2.html
“S” Corporation Small business corporation Taxed differently than “C” corporations Profits are taxed after distribution to shareholders (corporation does not pay) Avoids double-taxing of “C” corporations No more than 35 shareholders Members of board of directors are not liable