Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management Research

A smiling woman in a blue and white top stands by a white fence with a lighthouse and red-roofed building in the background on a cloudy day.

May 1, 2026

Lighting the Way: Professor Works to Strengthen Outer Banks Workforce

North Carolina’s Outer Banks generates billions in tourism revenue, yet the region faces a housing shortage and other workforce challenges that strain its economy. NC State professor Whitney Knollenberg is working with the community to develop practical, real-world solutions.

Vineyard at sunset with rows of grapevines and rolling hills in the background.

Mar 16, 2026

Agritourism Boosts Rural Livelihoods While Connecting Visitors to Farm Life

Farms around the world are offering hands-on experiences that support rural livelihoods, preserve agricultural traditions and educate visitors about farming practices and rural life, according to NC State expert Carla Barbieri.

Close-up of a curling stone with a red handle on the ice in a curling game.

Feb 20, 2026

Beyond the Olympics: How Curling Promotes Active, Social Lifestyles

Curling isn’t just for world-class athletes. Research finds it helps adults of all ages stay active, hit thousands of steps and build lasting friendships.

Snowboarder descending a snowy slope surrounded by evergreen trees.

Feb 6, 2026

Climate Change Threatens the Future of Winter Sports

Climate change is altering winter weather patterns worldwide, raising uncertainty about the future of skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports.

Close-up of an American football showing textured red leather and white laces.

Jan 23, 2026

The Super Bowl’s Economic Impact: Big Game, Big Money, Big Costs

NC State professor Mike Edwards breaks down the economic and social impact of the Super Bowl on host cities and the NFL.

A view of a snow-covered mountain, trees in the foreground. - When Public Lands Get Political: What a Hatch Act Complaint Says About the Future of Conservation - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Oct 15, 2025

When Public Lands Get Political: What a Hatch Act Complaint Says About the Future of Conservation

A Hatch Act complaint highlights growing political influence in public land management and its potential impact on conservation and bipartisan support.

Half Dome at Yosemite is bathed in warm sunset light, creating a striking orange glow on the granite. Foreground features tall evergreen trees. - What a Government Shutdown Means for National Parks - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Oct 13, 2025

What a Government Shutdown Means for National Parks

A government shutdown can limit park access and staff, threatening resources and local economies — highlighting the need for reliable funding to keep parks open and protected.

Sep 18, 2025

Mini-Pitches Create Healthier Communities by Offering Safe, Accessible Recreation Spaces

North Carolina State University researchers found that mini-pitches play a crucial role in increasing physical activity and community engagement among youth and families living in underserved communities.

Jul 31, 2025

Global Trade Tensions Threaten North Carolina’s Craft Brewing Industry, Expert Says

Heightened tariffs on imported aluminum and steel could have significant consequences for the industry, including decreased sales and revenue.

Close-up of a FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 soccer ball resting on the grass. - FIFA World Cup: Can It Leave Behind a Positive and Lasting Human Rights Legacy? - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Jul 29, 2025

FIFA World Cup: Can It Leave Behind a Positive and Lasting Human Rights Legacy?

The international soccer tournament has been linked to a range of human rights violations, including migrant worker exploitation, restrictions on freedom of expression, and much more.