Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP)
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SCORP Overview
The SCORP is a strategic plan that guides outdoor recreation planning and management across the state of Utah. It identifies priority outdoor recreation needs, trends, and opportunities to enhance outdoor experiences for the state’s residents and visitors. The SCORP is a requirement of the Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and will primarily guide LWCF investment priorities.
Recognizing the extensive benefits of outdoor recreation, the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation is preparing a SCORP that will focus on the following:
- An assessment of statewide recreation assets, use, and availability;
- Community/stakeholder engagement through surveys and online workshops;
- Establishing a long-term strategy for sustainable recreation growth;
- Defining the role of recreation in conservation, community health, and economic development.
Core Pillars
The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation has identified four Core Pillars to guide decision-making and provide a measurable strategy for enhancing Utah’s recreation opportunities.
Community Health
Identify and prioritize opportunities for communities to improve physical and mental health through outdoor recreation.
Equal Access
Provide safe, fun, and equal access of recreation opportunities to all communities.
Land, Air, & Water
Ensure development of recreation infrastructure has minimal impact on natural resources and follows sustainable standards.
Community Connection
Encourage efforts that enrich cultural heritage, patronize local arts, or increase capacity for community-wide social development and education.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Utah’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP)?
The SCORP is a strategic plan that guides outdoor recreation planning and management across the state of Utah. It identifies priority outdoor recreation needs, trends, and opportunities to enhance outdoor experiences for the state’s residents and visitors. The SCORP is a requirement of the Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and will primarily guide LWCF investment priorities.
Why is SCORP important?
The SCORP helps identify and prioritize Land & Water Conservation Fund investments and initiatives. It ensures that resources are allocated effectively, enabling the development and maintenance of high-quality outdoor recreation opportunities for all Utahns.
Who develops SCORP?
The SCORP is developed by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation in collaboration with various stakeholders, including state and federal agencies, local governments, nonprofit organizations, and community members.
How often is SCORP updated?
The SCORP is typically updated every five years to reflect changing demographics, outdoor recreation trends, and emerging needs to meet requirements from the National Park Service The updates ensure the plan remains relevant and responsive to Utah’s evolving outdoor recreation landscape. To view Utah’s 2019 SCORP click here.
What types of outdoor recreation are covered in SCORP?
The SCORP encompasses a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, biking, camping, fishing, boating, hunting, wildlife viewing, off-highway vehicle (OHV) use, winter sports, and more. It aims to address the diverse interests and preferences of Utah’s residents and visitors.
How can I get involved in the SCORP planning process?
The SCORP planning process will include public input opportunities, such as surveys, public meetings, and virtual workshops, beginning as early as summer 2023. Keep an eye on the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation’s website and social media channels for updates on how to participate and provide feedback.
What are the benefits of SCORP for Utah residents?
The SCORP helps improve access to outdoor recreation opportunities, enhancing the quality of existing recreation areas, promoting conservation and stewardship, supporting local economies, and fostering healthier lifestyles for Utah residents.
How does SCORP contribute to Utah’s tourism industry?
The SCORP plays a vital role in attracting visitors to Utah by highlighting the state’s diverse outdoor recreation assets. By investing in outdoor recreation infrastructure and experiences, the plan enhances Utah’s appeal as the premier destination for adventure tourism.
How does SCORP address environmental conservation?
The SCORP recognizes the importance of sustainable outdoor recreation practices and prioritizes environmental stewardship. It aims to protect and conserve natural resources, promote responsible recreation behaviors, and mitigate potential environmental impacts.
What are some possible accomplishments that can result from SCORP?
Possible accomplishments that may result from the SCORP update include the development of new trail systems, the expansion of camping and boating facilities, the enhancement of visitor amenities, the establishment of partnerships for outdoor education programs, and the promotion of outdoor recreation initiatives throughout the state.
What is the difference between SCORP and the Utah Adventure Commission’s Utah Outdoor Recreation Strategic Plan?
Recently, the Utah Outdoor Adventure Commission initiated the Utah Outdoor Recreation Strategic Plan to guide future initiatives and investment priorities. This plan differs from the SCORP because it addresses Utah as a whole, meanwhile, the SCORP primarily helps to prioritize Land Water and Conservation Fund monies. The analysis and findings from the Utah Outdoor Recreation Strategic Plan will help inform aspects of the SCORP.
How can my organization get involved?
We have established a Technical Committee to help provide high-level recommendations and feedback for SCORP development, methodology, stakeholder and community engagement, and quality assurance. Additionally, we have an Advisory Committee to assist with the SCORP’s stakeholder and community engagement efforts to help us maximize our public outreach efforts and engage diverse stakeholders throughout Utah. If you would like your organization to be involved in the SCORP update process, please send an inquiry to Carly Lansche at clansche@utah.gov.
Where can I learn more about the Land and Water Conservation Fund?
You can learn more about the Land and Water Conservation Fund and how it is used throughout the United States by visiting this website. To learn more about Land and Water Conservation Funding opportunities in Utah, please click here.
What’s Your Vision?
We want to hear how you recreate and what role you think recreation can play in Utah’s future.
Sign up for SCORP updates here and learn how to get involved!