Take the 2017 Virginia Outdoors Survey

by Janit Llewellyn Allen

Programs Planner

Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation

Every five years in preparation for the development of the Virginia Outdoors Plan, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) conducts an outdoor recreation survey. The 2017 survey is now, for the first time, open to the general public. Please take the onlinesurvey. Please also share the survey link with people that may be interested in taking the survey.

The online survey will close on August 24 at 5 p.m.

The 2017 Virginia Outdoors Survey (VOS) will assess Virginians’ attitudes about outdoor recreation resources and estimate participation in and demand for a variety of recreational activities. Results from the online survey will be compared to those from a juried survey mailed to 14,000 households in Virginia. This information will also enable DCR staff to assess differences in responses from conservation and recreation advocates and the general public for the 2018 Virginia Outdoors Plan.

Data obtained from the VOS will assist planning based on regional and statewide input. The addition of the online survey results will enhance information about Virginia’s outdoor recreation and land conservation interests. 

By taking the online survey, you are assisting DCR and local providers in determining where additional parks, recreational areas, and facilities are needed. Some localities and planning regions may use survey results to prepare both outdoor recreation and comprehensive plans, or they may use the information as a basis for a more detailed local outdoor recreation survey. Survey information will also help us identify ways to improve our state parks system and protect Virginia’s natural and open space resources.