Social Capital in an Outdoor Recreation Context |
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Authors: | Marilynne Mann Jessica Leahy |
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Institution: | (1) Center for Tourism Research and Outreach, The University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA;(2) School of Forest Resources, The University of Maine, 5755 Nutting Hall, Orono, ME 04469-5755, USA; |
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Abstract: | This study examined social capital development in three all-terrain vehicles (ATV) clubs in Maine using an adapted version
of Lin’s (2001) social capital theory model. The structural components of social capital identified included collective assets and individual
assets in the form of normative behavior and trust relationships. Also identified were counter-norms for individual ATV riders
identified as having divergent norms from club members. The second component of social capital is access to and mobilization
of network contacts and resources. Access networks in the context of the ATV clubs studied were identified as community and
landowner relations while mobilization of resources was existent in club membership attempts toward self-governance and efforts
of the statewide “umbrella” organization. Instrumental outcomes benefit society and expressive outcomes benefit the individual.
Both types of returns are present in the data suggesting that ATV clubs are creating social capital. This is important information
to clubs who desire to market themselves, improve their reputations, and enhance their volunteer association. It is of further
interest to state governments who fund clubs through trail grants as proof that a return on investment is being realized.
Theoretical and applied implications for these and other types of recreation-based volunteer associations (e.g., clubs, friends
groups, advocacy groups) are presented. |
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