Every 5 years, the State of Colorado updates its Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). This plan reflects the shared vision and commitment of Colorado outdoor partners to advance recreation enjoyment and conservation of Colorado’s outdoor resources. Colorado Parks & Wildlife staff are now asking for public input on the 2024 draft. BMA analyzed the differences between the 2024 draft and the 2019 plan and here’s what we found.
1. Focus and Priorities:
- 2019-2023: Emphasized increasing access to outdoor recreation, maintaining and improving existing facilities, and addressing the growing demand for recreational activities.
- 2024-2028: Shifts towards sustainability and climate resilience, managing environmental impacts, and ensuring equity and inclusion in recreational opportunities.
2. Strategic Goals:
- 2019-2023: Focused on enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities, improving facilities, and increasing funding and resources.
- 2024-2028: Prioritizes sustainability and environmental stewardship, strengthens partnerships, and innovates funding mechanisms for long-term projects.
3. Environmental Considerations:
- 2019-2023: Addressed environmental impacts with less emphasis on specific mitigation strategies.
- 2024-2028: Places a strong focus on climate change impacts, detailed strategies for reducing carbon footprints, and promoting green practices.
4. Equity and Inclusion:
- 2019-2023: Mentioned general accessibility improvements without a detailed inclusivity plan.
- 2024-2028: Prioritizes inclusivity, setting specific goals to reduce barriers for underrepresented communities and ensuring equitable access for all.
5. Technological Integration:
- 2019-2023: Limited mention of technology’s role in recreation management.
- 2024-2028: Emphasizes technology for data collection, user engagement, and facility management, encouraging digital tools to enhance user experience and operational efficiency.
The new SCORP builds on the previous plan but places a stronger emphasis on sustainability, inclusivity, and technological advancements to better serve Colorado’s outdoor recreation community.
BMA is dedicated to enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities for everyone. While we recognize the importance of sustainability and inclusivity, we believe the 2019 SCORP better captures the balance needed to meet the growing demand for outdoor recreation. The new draft of the 2024-2028 SCORP shifts focus in a way that might overlook the crucial aspects of increasing access, enhancing user experiences, and addressing the expanding need for recreational spaces. While sustainability and inclusion are critical goals, they can and should be pursued alongside efforts to expand and improve access to outdoor activities.<
We urge you to review the draft 2024-2028 SCORP and share your thoughts. Your input is vital to ensure that the final plan reflects a balanced approach that caters to the diverse needs of all outdoor enthusiasts.
Please submit your comments on the draft before August 6. Together, we can ensure that our outdoor recreation plans meet the demands of today and tomorrow while promoting sustainability and inclusion.