Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS)

The Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) is a framework that categorizes natural areas based on the level of development and the type of outdoor experiences they offer. It ranges from highly developed, easily accessible sites with amenities, to primitive areas with minimal human impact, fostering solitude and natural conditions. This spectrum helps land managers plan and balance different recreational opportunities, ensuring that various user preferences and environmental preservation goals are met. Essentially, ROS provides a way to describe and manage diverse outdoor environments according to their accessibility, facilities, and naturalness.