OutdoorNebraska

2026-2030 SCORP Draft

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2025–2030 SCORP 9 INTRODUCTION Outdoor recreation activities offer a wealth of benefits that can enrich both physical and mental wellbeing. Spending time in natural environments allows us to disconnect from the stresses and distractions of everyday life, providing a much-needed respite for the mind. The fresh air and sunlight work in tandem to boost mood and energy levels and have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Beyond the psychological perks, outdoor activities also deliver potent physical benefits. The increased physical exertion not only strengthens the cardiovascular system and builds muscle tone but also triggers the release of endorphins that leave us feeling energized and accomplished. Moreover, being outdoors encourages us to be more active and mobile, counteracting the sedentary habits that have become all too common in our technology-driven society. Whether it's a leisurely stroll through the park or an adrenaline-fueled mountain biking adventure, prioritizing outdoor recreation presents an invaluable opportunity to improve our holistic health and well- being in Nebraska. The Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) is a resource to assist the state, Natural Resource Districts (NRD), counties, communities and outdoor recreation advocates. Its purpose is to guide development, improvement, renovation and acquisition of land for outdoor recreational use across Nebraska. This is done through providing outdoor recreation priorities and information on supply, demand and demographics of Nebraska. The SCORP is also a federal requirement for the state to receive outdoor recreation funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The Land and Water Conservation Fund Program (LWCF) Enacted in 1965, LWCF is a federal program that provides grant funds to states, counties and municipalities for planning, acquisition and development projects related to outdoor recreation. To maintain eligibility of these funds, states must update and submit the SCORP to the National Park Service (NPS) for approval every five years. The SCORP sets outdoor recreation priorities for LWCF funding to be used for the evaluation of funding grant applications. People play pickleball at a public court in Gretna in Sarpy County. The Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) does two things for the State of Nebraska: 1. Provides guidance for outdoor recreation development across the state 2. Secures eligibility to receive funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) State Assistance Program DRAF T

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