OLYMPIA — The state Department of Natural Resources is requesting comment on a draft of a policy that would guide the future development of recreation trails on DNR-managed lands.
Comments are due by Sept. 28. DNR anticipates adopting the policy by Oct. 31.
DNR oversees about 5.6 million acres of state land, much of which offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and off-road vehicle riding.
These lands must also generate sustainable revenue for public school construction and maintaining the state’s natural heritage, according to the state constitution.
“This policy will provide greater consistency and guidelines to local communities and volunteers,” said Brock Milliern, DNR’s statewide recreation manager.
Prompted by the state Legislature in March 2014, DNR developed the draft policy in collaboration with the public and a volunteer committee.
DNR held public meetings across the state in 2014 and formed a 17-member outdoor recreation stakeholder committee to identify issues and develop policy recommendations.
To view the draft policy, see www.dnr.wa.gov.
To comment, send an email to trailspolicy@dnr.wa.gov, fill out an online survey at www.dnr.wa.gov/TrailsPolicy or go in person to a DNR headquarters or a region office, including the Olympia Region Office at 411 Tilicum Lane in Forks.
