Residents of the Tri-Cities, Chesterfield County, and anyone interested in outdoor recreation in the southern part of Central Virginia, take note. The below is from a press release sent out by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. (In case you’re wondering, “the Virginia Outdoors Plan is the state’s comprehensive plan for meeting outdoor recreation, land conservation and open space needs. Established in 1965, the plan provides guidance for all levels of government and the private sector. In addition, it assists the state in prioritizing projects and allocating funds for outdoor recreation and land conservation. The plan was last developed in 2007.)

Planners with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation will hold two public meetings Jan. 19 in Petersburg to gather regional input for the 2013 Virginia Outdoors Plan. Meetings will be at 3 and 7 p.m., at the Crater Planning District Commission, 1964 Wakefield St., Petersburg. Residents are invited to share their ideas for outdoor recreation and land conservation needs.

The following are potential matters relevant to the region:

· Additional trails and recreation facilities on or near the waterfront of the Appomattox River, including Ferndale Appomattox Riverside Regional Park in Dinwiddie County, Patton Park in Petersburg and Appomattox River Regional Park in Prince George County

· Recreational water access on the Lower Appomattox, Nottoway and Blackwater rivers

· Expansion of greenways and trails, including the proposed trunk line trails that traverse the region (East Coast Greenway, Beaches to Bluegrass Trail and James River Heritage Trail)

· Expansion of partnerships and collaborative efforts to connect the region’s natural, historic and recreation resources

· Recommendations for scenic rivers and byways

“The Virginia Outdoors Plan serves as the guide for increasing and enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities for all Virginians, as well as our many visitors and tourists,” said Danette Poole, DCR’s director of planning and recreation resources. “We look forward to gathering feedback from communities across the state so that the upcoming plan continues to reflect the needs of citizens.”

The Petersburg meetings are part of a series of public-input sessions scheduled statewide. Anyone who cannot attend a meeting may submit written comments. Email comments to janit.llewellyn@dcr.virginia.gov, or write to: VOP Comments, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, 203 Governor St., Suite 326, Richmond, VA 23219.

View the 2007 Virginia Outdoors Plan at: http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/recreational_planning/vop.shtml