우리나라 생태숲 조성과 운영현황 및 이용자 만족도 분석

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the current trends in the development of eco-forests in Korea and visitors’ satisfaction in them through a survey, thereby providing suggestions for them. In terms of region, 18 of the eco-forests in Korea are distributed in the Gyeongsand-do areas (10 in Gyeongsangnam-do and 8 in Gyeongsangbuk-do), and in terms of climate zone, 21 forests, which is 50% of the eco-forests in Korea, are distributed in the southern temperate climate areas. According to the analysis, the average development period was 5.5 years, while the average surface area was 141ha. The average number of full-time management staff was 2.3, which is a very low. Among six major functions of eco-forests that is collection, exhibition, research, education, conservation, and relaxation, the visitors appreciated the function of relaxation most highly, The visitors’ satisfaction levels increased after using the forests compared to before using them, significantly in terms of visit to an attraction, acquisition of knowledge of plants, animals, and insects, time to spend alone, low expenses, understanding of nature, and opportunity for self-reflection. Lastly, the visitors’ satisfaction in the facilities in the eco-forests before and after using them showed significant changes in 23 variables among 24 variables of seven categories; the satisfaction levels decreased after using them, which indicates a need for more efforts to manage the facilities.