OLYMPIA - The state Department of Natural Resources will host a public workshop from 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, at Sun Valley Restaurant, Okanogan, to discuss recreation on DNR-managed lands.
         Throughout September, DNR officials will hold nine workshops across the state to gather comments from individuals and groups to help create "a new vision for recreation on DNR-managed forestlands, aquatic lands and natural areas," according to a DNR announcement.
         "We'd like to hear about where people in this state like to recreate and what kinds of recreation activities they enjoy," said commissioner of public lands Doug Sutherland.
         "We also want to know how easily they can access recreation on state-managed lands," he continued. "The information people provide will help us continue improving opportunities for outdoor recreation."
         Workshops will include discussion topic areas in which the public can converse with DNR staff, view maps of DNR-managed lands and offer their visions for recreation in the state, said DNR officials.
         DNR staff members will compile the information and present it to the newly formed Sustainable Recreation Work Group. The group was established by the 2008 Legislature to assist DNR in developing a long-term vision that ensures safe, sustainable and enjoyable outdoor recreation on DNR-managed land.
         More information is available at www.dnr.wa.gov/RecreationEducation/Topics/RecreationPlanning/Pages/amp_rec_sustainable_recreation.aspx or Jana Greer, (360) 902-1730 or jana.greer@dnr.wa.gov.