Land Preservation and Recreation Survey Now Open

Citizens and Visitors Encouraged to Provide Feedback

Friends Forever by Ink Byers

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites residents and nonresidents to share their thoughts on land acquisition, conservation and recreation in the state by completing the Maryland Land Preservation and Recreation Plan Survey.

Individuals who complete the 3-5 minute online survey will be entered into a random drawing to win Maryland Park Service day-use passes.

The survey, which includes questions on outdoor activities, amenities and services like camping, fishing and hunting, helps guide the department’s decision-making, investments and programming.

Results will be incorporated into the Land Preservation and Recreation Plan, which is required to receive federal funding from the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund.

“Taking the pulse of our customers, guests and users is essential to our strategic development, planning and prioritization goals and needs,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “Are we meeting our customers’ expectations by providing them exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities? Are we shortchanging an evolving customer base or meeting their need? Are we spending too much on trail construction and maintenance over historical interpretation and programming? These are but a few of the questions we need your help in answering.”

The survey – a combination of multiple choice and open-ended questions – seeks to clarify how people access and utilize public lands, including state forests, parks and wildlife management areas, and if the department is meeting demands and needs.

In addition to the online survey, the department has partnered with a contractor to reach potential respondents by telephone.