This text brings together disparate bodies of ecological knowledge pertinent to countryside areas used for recreation. It summarizes our understanding of recreation as an ecological factor and outlines the problems needing further research, for the benefit of students and others concerned with countryside conservation. Information is drawn from several countries and the text highlights common features as a means for providing a theoretical base for practical advice which the planner or manager can use as a guide when faced with problems for which there is no direct information. This work should be of interest to conservation biologists, ecologists and land managers concerned with habitat management for recreation purposes.