Description

An open space plan can be an element of a comprehensive plan or a stand-alone policy document setting forth a community or region's current and projected needs for parks, wildlife habitat, agriculture, and recreation and identifying where such open space features ought to be spatially located.

Strengths

Can be used to promote smart growth policies by identifying undeveloped areas that ought to remain preserved, protected, or acquired.

Weaknesses

Funding and resources that are needed to acquire or protect open space might be constrained by tight budgets.

Examples

Example 1: Ohio

Natural Areas Establishment and Management

Description: Ohio Balance Growth Program

 

Example 2: Michigan

Land Use Planning and Growth Management

Description: Land use planning document for the state of Michigan. 

 

Example 3: Wisconsin 

SCORP

Description: The Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) is done every five years to identify essential and contemporary issues that affect the future of outdoor recreation in Wisconsin.

 

Example 4: Wisconsin 

Outdoor Recreation Plan

Description: City of Kewaunee Outdoor Recreation Plan

 

Example 5: Wisconsin 

City of Manitowoc Plan

Description: Provides an overall picture of park and open space needs

 

Photo Credits: CMAP, WDNR, City of Kewaunee