This summer, a new government feedback survey about Connecticut’s state parks brings new meaning to the “treasure in your own back yard” statement. Governor Jodi Rell announced on June 30 that visitors to Connecticut state parks now have the opportunity to reflect on their experiences in an online survey, available on the home page of the Web site for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), www.ct.gov/dep, or accessed directly at www.ct.gov/dep/stateparks.

There is a state park located within 10 to 20 miles of almost every Connecticut resident, offering a family-friendly and relaxed alternative to the ever-rising transportation, food, and entertainment costs of the typical summer day trip.

The costs of admission to the state parks generally range from $10 or less to free depending upon the day of the week and whether it is a holiday. Parking fees are similar, depending on the day and whether the vehicle is registered with a season pass.

Low prices, however, do not translate to less value or less fun. Connecticut’s 106 state parks and 32 state forests afford opportunities for all ages and interests, with a variety of activities such as swimming in one of 19 inland and coastal areas, hiking on 800 miles of trails, biking, fishing, or even simple picnicking. In addition, there are dozens of campgrounds and several historic sites. Many of the parks are also accessible to disabled individuals, including five state beaches with beach-accessible wheelchairs.

The DEP survey is an effort to make improvements and ensure adequate up-keep of these backyard treasures based on input from Connecticut residents, their primary users.

Governor Rell said in a press release, “As part of Connecticut’s No Child Left Inside initiative, we encourage families to visit state parks and forests found in the great state of Connecticut.”

As an additional incentive, 2009 season park passes will be awarded courtesy of the DEP to 10 randomly chosen individuals who complete the survey and provide their e-mail addresses.

Some of the questions taken from the quick and convenient, 20-question survey include “How can we better serve you and/or your family’s interests in the State Park and Forest’s Day Use Areas?” and “Did you enjoy your visit?” The survey also asks which activities the resident took part in, and to rate the helpfulness of park staff.

Later questions address future improvements and greater public turnout, such as “If public transportation was available from your town to a state park or forest, would you use it?” and “Are you aware that a state park season pass, providing unlimited parking at state parks and forests, can be purchased by Connecticut residents and non-residents?”

“We encourage everyone who visits our parks and forests to take part in this important survey,” Governor Rell said in a statement. “The public’s feedback will have a real impact on the future of Connecticut state parks and forests. We look forward to your comments on ways state parks and forests can be improved for all visitors, including families and their children.”