The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office has launched what it's calling online public meetings to gather people's thoughts about the future of outdoor recreation in the state.

People can participate at any time by going online to scorpwa.wordpress.com to answer questions posted there.

The online forum will gather input about the demand for outdoor recreation, what people want for their parks and trails, what prevents people from recreating outdoors, and the quality of their experiences when they do, according to a news release from the Recreation and Conservation Office. Comments will be collected through January.

The state office is gathering information to update its plan for recreation, as it must do every five years to remain eligible for federal funding.

Reach KIE RELYEA at kie.relyea@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2234.