Countryside recreation is a growing area of leisure activity; important for the chance to escape the routines of life, to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the countryside, to get fit, to get close to nature or, perhaps for some, to experience the thrill of an 'adrenaline sport.'

It is also of increasing economic value to individuals, host communities and society at large, especially at a time when rural areas are under severe pressure through diminishing agricultural returns and the collapse of traditional values.

The Northern Ireland Countryside Access and Activities Network (CAAN) is an umbrella organisation which brings together the following groups:

• Those participating in countryside recreation activities
• Local and central government organisations
• Farmers and landowners
• Providers of outdoor education
• Environmental and community organisations.
• Youth organisations

The Network is also responsible for undertaking practical countryside recreation strategies.

The network is core funded by the following organisations: