County Of Dane : COUNTY ASKING RESIDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN A SURVEY TO SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS AND EXPERIENCES REGARDING EQUITY AND ACCESS ...

Press release from the County of Dane:

February 21, 2022

The Office of the Dane County Board of Supervisors recently launched an independent evaluation of equity and access at Dane County Parks and the Henry Vilas Zoo.

The evaluation, which is being conducted by Keen Independent Research in collaboration with the County Board Office, Dane County Parks, and the Henry Vilas Zoo, is bringing in-depth qualitative and quantitative research to form a better understanding of the demographics of who is and is not utilizing Dane County parks and the zoo, as well as the reasons behind such behavior, particularly as they relate to equity and access.

As part of this study, Keen Independent Research is gathering input from visitors and non-visitors of Dane County Parks and Henry Vilas Zoo and seeks all residents’ input and comments. Survey results, which will be reported in the aggregate, will help inform recommendations to guide Dane County toward improving access to its facilities, lands, properties and programs, and ultimately become a more inclusive, equitable and racially just place for all.

Visit the study website and scroll down to access the survey in English, Spanish, and Hmong: https:/keenindependent.com/danecoparksandzooequity/

"We are excited to hear from Dane County residents about whether and how they access and use Dane County’s parks, trails, recreational spaces, and the Henry Vilas Zoo. This brief survey is one tool that residents can use right now to share their ideas and experiences and help us ensure that Dane County’s natural, cultural, and educational resources are accessible to all members of the Dane County community in ways that are positive and meaningful," said County Board Chair Analiese Eicher.

Goals of the evaluation include:

For more information about the project, please contact Lisa MacKinnon, Sustainability and Program Evaluation Coordinator, MacKinnon@countyofdane.com.

This press release was produced by the County of Dane. The views expressed here are the author’s own.