The Saint Croix County Community Development Committee unanimously adopted the county’s 2026–2030 Outdoor Recreation Plan on Nov. 20, endorsing goals to expand and connect trails, protect natural and scenic resources, modernize facilities and increase grant competitiveness.

Parks staff said the plan updates demographics, inventories county park assets and sets a five‑year capital improvement program covering 12 park facilities. Key near‑term projects highlighted include Eckert Blufflands (trail establishment, access reconfiguration and parking), Glen Hills campground improvements and Homestead Park priorities; staff noted the Eckert Blufflands master plan was revised earlier to lower projected development costs and that $1.5 million is currently in the county’s capital improvement program to begin items 1–8 at Eckert.

The plan update also supports grant eligibility for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, which typically funds 50–80% of eligible project costs. Parks staff described a public outreach campaign that began in March 2025, including a 162‑response user survey, an open house and project web page. Public commenters, including residents from North Hudson and the Town of Hudson, urged the county to prioritize river access and protection of environmentally sensitive shoreline areas.

Committee members discussed project prioritization, survey response rates and next steps for high‑cost items. A motion to adopt the 2026–2030 Outdoor Recreation Plan passed by unanimous voice vote.