Recreational land development in the United States falls into three general categories with the first two being more popular: (1) unimproved recreational subdivisions, largely speculative investments; (2) improved second home projects, used both for recreation and speculation; and (3) high amenity resort communities, recreational areas for higher income families. At least 10 million recreational lots currently exist, mostly in Florida and Texas, but also in Pennsylvania and the Southwest. Recreational land development is a controversial topic as it has implications for environmental, economic, and social impact. Environmentally sensitive areas are often targets for development projects, which can produce air and water pollution, erosion, and solid waste problems. While development projects initially stimulate local economies via taxation, the effect may reverse itself in later years. The culture and lifestyle of a rural area may change with an influx of sophistication, bringing with it increased crime, traffic, and crowding. Consumer victimization by fraudulent land development companies is all too frequent. Local and state governments should take advantage of the current lull in recreational land development to pass legislation and establish procedures and regulations regarding such development. (SB)