The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) recently announced the release of a preliminary report gleaned from results of an extensive two-year survey seeking public input on the future of Pennsylvanian's state parks. Commenting on everything from pets in campgrounds to trails and beaches, thousands commented on what they like, dislike, and hope to see someday in their state parks.
This information shaped recommendations that will help in the creation of a strategic plan to ensure the Pennsylvania state park system remains as relevant and valuable to future generations as it has been to current and past generations. In response to the release of the preliminary report, the Bureau of State Parks' website now features downloadable information detailing survey findings and includes a public comment tool to address recommendations suggested as a result of this input. Also, in a continuing attempt to gain public feedback, parks across the state are scheduling public meetings.
Recommendations in the "Penn's Parks for All" report address the improvement of outdoor recreation opportunities, expansion of outdoor recreation opportunities, protection of resources from recreation impacts, offering of more "active adventure activities," expansion of overnight accommodations, protection of parks' natural and cultural resources, parks' financial support, and improved services and facilities.
Presented in the "Penn's Parks for All" preliminary report is a summary of results from the various surveys, along with proposed recommendations to guide the management of Pennsylvania state parks for the next 25 years. To access the report, readers may visit http://www.dcnr.pa.gov and click on Recreation and then Penn's Parks for All.
A series of surveys was conducted by Penn State in 2017 and 2018 to assess the attitudes and opinions of Pennsylvania state park visitors and the public regarding key issues affecting the future of the state parks. In 2017, 10,186 adults responded online and 4,090 answered surveys at parks. A 2018 statewide telephone effort reached out to 1,650 Pennsylvanians and an online survey the same year targeted 1,131 Latinos, Asians, and African Americans.
Public comment on these survey responses and resultant recommendations will be accepted online and in writing until Tuesday, Dec. 31. For online participation, readers should access the "Penn's Parks for All" preliminary report at the previously mentioned website. Readers should address written comments to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of State Parks' Planning Section, P.O. Box 8551, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8551. A final report is planned in summer 2020.
Leave a Review