Planners with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation will hold two public meetings on Feb. 13 to gather citizen input for the 2013 Virginia Outdoors Plan. Meetings will be at 3 and 7 p.m. at the Richmond Regional Planning District Commission office (9211 Forest Hill Ave., Suite 200, Richmond). Residents are invited to share their ideas for outdoor recreation and land conservation needs.

Matters of particular interest include: 

·Review the “Rivers of the Richmond Region: A Public Access Guide,” developed by the Richmond Regional Planning District Commission

·Expansion of greenways and trails, including the proposed long-distance trails that traverse the region such as the East Coast Greenway, the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail and the James River Heritage Trail.

·Improved recreational water access on proposed blueways and water trails on the Pamunkey, Chickahominy, Appomattox and James rivers

·Enhancements to U.S. Bike Routes 1 and 76

·Recommendations for Scenic River and Scenic Byway designations

·Expansion of partnerships and collaborative efforts to connect natural, historic and recreational resources in the region

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 updated in 2007.

“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 Richmond 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.