Gallatin Recreation Survey Kicks Off

A survey to assess public needs and opinions on parks and trails in Bozeman and Gallatin County closed in late April, with 1,189 people responding. The survey was the first step in the process to create a countywide comprehensive park and trail master plan. "When planning for future growth, we need to take a look at the big picture," says County Open Lands Coordinator Mike Harris.

The survey asked recreationists how they use parks and trails and what they thought should be built in the future. The next step in the process takes place during June, July, and August. Bike ambassadors, horse riders, ATV users, and others will attempt to get from Bozeman to Belgrade. They will help define what challenges these users face on trails and roads.

The third step is to talk to agricultural landowners, chambers of commerce, the business and building communities, and other stakeholders to understand the importance of trails and parks to their constituents. Harris hopes to wrap up the whole process by December with "a report detailing what we think would be best for the next 20 years based on the results of this process."