Access digital copies of guides and regulations publications from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
Issue link: http://digital.outdoornebraska.gov/i/1521208
A public comment period may be required or advised at different project stages. This can occur during the initial project proposal into existing plans and later in development when there are design options to be considered. Be prepared for a longer process if there is concern from important stakeholders. Consider possible statutory requirements for points at which public input must be received, including a set number of days for public comments. For many federal grants, some kind of public comment period is required. KEYS TO EFFECTIVE COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT The most essential thing to keep in mind about community engagement is that trails can be used by everyone, so it's important to create opportunities for all to provide input about the trail. Bicyclists have different needs than hikers, just like ATV trails often have obstacles not suitable for equestrian riders. Educators might want certain things along the trail that help them achieve curriculum goals. Different age groups may need different things. Being inclusive of all is crucial and taking the time to ask for input is going to reap benefits for all in the long run. Personal, one-on-one engagement at an open house or in small group discussions will be more successful than a general meeting. Meetings where audience members are handed a microphone and asked to give unstructured opinions will likely end in a divisive, "us versus them" environment and unproductive results. Be thoughtful about the points in the process that you schedule public outreach. Make sure the input you are seeking has meaningful impact on the project. Asking the community to give opinions on something that has already been decided or on requirements that cannot be changed will lead to unproductive results. Use community engagement for what it is designed to do: provide you a better understanding of the needs and wants of the people who will use the trail. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND DESIGN Community engagement should be a part of a robust trail design process. It takes a lot of people to build a trail to meet the needs of the constituents it serves. By engaging the public in the design, it will continue to build a sense of ownership that will ensure the trail can be successfully developed and maintained. If you are using a design professional, they should have the tools and resources to conduct community engagement. You also have the option to do it on your own. Revisit the information that was collected from your initial community engagement when creating your project proposal and incorporate that information into your design. Engage the public again to gather their input on the best design options. Review the community engagement and resources sections for engagement ideas. TIME TO PAUSE Meet with your team after each community engagement session to reflect on the experience. How are you going to incorporate what you learned? Fort Atkinson State Historical Park Design Charrette. The Nebraska Open Meetings Act, must be followed for every meeting of a public body. Review the Act for your meetings. ago.nebraska.gov/open-meetings 21 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT