MURPHYSBORO – The Jackson County Natural Resources and Economic Development (NRED) Board encourages residents to complete a survey that seeks input about outdoor recreation planning and development in Jackson County.

Residents are asked about outdoor activities and benefits sought from outdoor recreation.

On the survey, residents also rate the condition of outdoor recreation areas and facilities, evaluate the importance of potential outdoor recreation projects for development, and assess which existing areas and facilities should be prioritized for maintenance and improvements. “The public’s input is important and will help shape future plans for outdoor recreation in Jackson County,” said County Board Chairman C.J. Calandro.

Jackson County has over 50 public and private outdoor recreation areas where both residents and visitors engage in activities such as hiking, fishing, paddling, hunting and more. “Outdoor recreation is an important part of our (county’s) growth and public parks and spaces are critically important to the human experience,” said Will Stephens, Mayor of Murphysboro.

Over 3,000 households will be randomly selected to receive a survey invitation postcard in the mail with a QR code and link to the survey. All residents are encouraged to complete the online survey at https://tinyurl.com/JacksonCtyOutdoorRec-Survey.

Residents are asked to complete the survey by Tuesday, September 12th. All who complete the survey are eligible for a drawing for one of twenty $25 Amazon.com gift certificates.

Results from this survey will be used for an outdoor recreation plan that will be implemented county-wide in the next two to three years. For more information regarding this project, please contact the Jackson County NRED Board at info.nred@gmail.com or Greg Legan, Chair at 618-303-0755.