Site Planning and Design

More from Planning the Wild All episodes →

1. 

   S3 · E2 · 9 Sep 2026 · 28 min

   Collective Impact Models for Recreation

   In this episode, Cailin O'Brien-Feeney shares insights from her two decades of experience in outdoor recreation, policy, and funding. Rachel and Cailin explore how the outdoor industry has evolved, the role of collective impact, and innovative financing solutions for public lands and recreation projects. Cailin defines what conservation finance is for recreation and how it supports shared stewardship goals. He also shares tangible examples of conservation finance in action. Resources Quantified Ventures About Cailin Cailin brings two decades of experience working either in or for the…

2. 

   S3 · E1 · 2 Sep 2026 · 31 min

   Shared Vision for Recreation and Trails

   In this episode, Jaime Loucky from Washington Trails Association discusses shared stewardship, wildfire recovery, and the evolving role of nonprofits in outdoor recreation and land management. Rachel and Jaime talk about how collaboration, trust, and adaptability are shaping the future of public lands stewardship. They also explore the importance of having a shared vision and goals that agencies, partners, and communities work together on. Resources Washington Trails Association About Jaime Growing up in Bellingham, with the North Cascades practically in his backyard, Jaime developed a…

3. 

   S2 · E7 · 17 Apr 2026 · 29 min

   Building Relationships and Trust

   In this episode of Planning the Wild, Rachel Franchina and Leander Lacy discuss the critical role of trust and relationships in recreation planning and conservation. They explore the importance of inclusivity in conservation efforts, the need for equitable access to outdoor spaces, and the significance of building trust with communities. Leander shares his unique journey into conservation, emphasizing the human dimensions of natural resources and the necessity of engaging diverse voices in the planning process. The conversation highlights practical examples of trust-building in action and…

4. 

   S2 · E6 · 9 Apr 2026 · 28 min

   Visitor Use Management Framework

   In this episode of Planning the Wild, Rachel is joined by Maureen Finnerty, chair of the Interagency Visitor Use Management Council. Maureen shares about the origins of the Visitor Use Management (VUM) framework, a tool built from lessons learned across federal agencies like the NPS, Forest Service, BLM, and others. The conversation covers how the flexible framework is helping to make planning more proactive, adaptable, and ultimately more resilient in the face of growing visitation and natural challenges. Resources: IVUMC Training Resources SORP VUM Resources About Maureen Maureen Finnerty…

5. 

   S2 · E5 · 3 Apr 2026 · 25 min

   Mid-level Recreation Planning

   In this episode of Planning the Wild, host Rachel Franchina welcomes Mary Ellen, a seasoned recreation planner with extensive experience in land management. They discuss Mary Ellen's journey into recreation planning, the importance of collaboration, and the critical elements of effective recreation planning. The conversation delves into mid-level recreation planning, its distinction from NEPA, and the significance of engaging diverse perspectives in planning processes. Mary Ellen shares her insights on the evolving landscape of public land management and expresses hope for the future as more…

6. 

   S2 · E3 · 12 Mar 2026 · 37 min

   Integrating Recreation in NEPA

   In this conversation, Rachel Franchina speaks with Linda Marigliano, a recently retired Recreation and Wilderness Program Manager, about her extensive career in recreation management within the Forest Service. They discuss the importance of leading with passion for the land, evolving public engagement strategies, and the integration of recreation into broader planning efforts. Linda shares her journey into conservation, the significance of partnerships, and the ongoing challenges and opportunities in managing public lands. The conversation highlights the shift in societal values towards…

7. 

   S2 · E2 · 2 Mar 2026 · 28 min

   Recreation Opportunity Spectrum: Challenges and Opportunities with ROS

   In this episode of Planning the Wild, Rachel Franchina interviews Monika Derrien, a social scientist focused on outdoor recreation management. They discuss Monika's contrasting childhood experiences in urban Queens and rural Vermont, her journey to becoming a social scientist, and her transition from the Forest Service to academia. The conversation delves into the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS), its historical context, its evolution, and its influence on recreation planning. They also explore the challenges and opportunities in implementing ROS, findings from Monika's research on ROS…

8. 

   S2 · E1 · 23 Feb 2026 · 41 min

   History of Recreation Planning

   In this episode of Planning the Wild, Rachel Franchina talks to Bob Ratcliffe, a veteran in outdoor recreation planning and management. They discuss the evolution of outdoor recreation, Bob's personal journey, and the importance of understanding the history of outdoor management to inform future practices. The conversation highlights key milestones in outdoor recreation planning, the significance of collaboration across agencies, and the lessons learned from past experiences. About Bob Ratcliffe Bob has graduate and undergraduate degrees in conservation, outdoor recreation and resource…

9. 

   S1 · E6 · 25 Aug 2025 · 44 min

   Treaty Rights and Recreation: Andrew Gobin on Understanding Treaty Rights in Recreation Planning

   In this episode of "Planning the Wild," we delve into the intersection of traditional knowledge and modern resource management with Andrew Gobin, the treaty rights manager for the Tulalip Tribes. Raised in the traditions of his people, Andrew shares how these teachings guide his work in protecting the rights and resources of his community. Discover how tribal sovereignty and traditional management practices are being integrated into contemporary strategies to preserve natural resources. Join us for an insightful conversation on the importance of cultural heritage in shaping sustainable…

10. 

    S1 · E5 · 19 Aug 2025 · 25 min

    Leading the Way: Sustainable Recreation on the Olympic Peninsula

    Join Rachel Franchina as she sits down with Laurie Thorpe, a seasoned public lands professional, to explore the evolving landscape of sustainable outdoor recreation. Discover how collaborative efforts and innovative models are shaping the future of the Olympic Peninsula, ensuring accessibility and resilience for generations to come. Dive into the challenges and opportunities that come with redefining outdoor recreation in a rapidly changing world. Resources: Olympic Peninsula Outdoor Recreation Collaborative https://www.opoutdoorreccollab.com/ Outdoor Recreation Use Insights…