Utah News Dispatch
Want to have a say in central Utah’s outdoor recreation? Take this survey
A man hikes in the Halls Creek Narrows at Capitol Reef National Park in south-central Utah. (Photo by Sierralara/Getty Images)
Utah officials are looking for input on central Utah’s outdoor recreation opportunities and any improvements Utahns and visitors would like to see.
The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation issued a news release on Tuesday announcing a community survey to “help shape the future of outdoor recreation” in the state’s central region, which includes the rural areas of Juab, Millard, Sanpete, Sevier, Piute and Wayne counties. The area is rich with state and national parks, lakes, rivers, and hundreds of miles of motorized and non-motorized trails.
The survey is part of the state’s first-ever regional recreation planning effort, with state leaders welcoming community input to guide future investments in trails, parks, open space and recreation facilities across the region.
“From red rock canyons to alpine forests, the region offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences, and this planning process aims to ensure that these opportunities continue to grow and improve in ways that meet community needs,” the division said.
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The central region “long-range recreation plan” will help guide infrastructure and restoration investments through the division’s “outdoor recreation initiative,” which aims to leverage city, state, federal and private dollars to create a “lasting legacy of well-preserved public recreation opportunities,” according to the initiative’s mission listed on the state’s website.
“Our goal is to provide a variety of recreational experiences that strengthen local communities and foster a deep connection between people and the great outdoors,” the initiative’s mission statement says.
Jason Curry, director of the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, said state leaders want to “grow outdoor recreation the right way, by expanding access while caring for the places that make Central Utah special.”
“If you hike, ride, paddle or simply enjoy time outside,” Curry said, “this quick survey is your chance to tell us what’s working, what’s missing and where to invest so we can deliver trails, parks and safe access that serve families, visitors and communities for years to come.”
The survey will be open through Oct. 20, available in both English and Spanish. It asks respondents about their primary outdoor recreation activities in Central Utah, challenges they’ve experienced and ideas for improvement.
“Feedback will directly inform the Central Region Recreation Plan, which will set a vision for the region and direct state investment for years to come,” the division said.
