Majority of survey respondents want natural areas/trail improvements at Buffalo Trace

By Isabella Zarate

In preparation for an upcoming grant application the Champaign County Forest Preserve (CCFPD) sought the public’s input regarding potential improvements to Buffalo Trace.

Buffalo Trace is both a hiking and natural area located at the Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve. 

According to Executive Director, Lorrie Pearson, “The Champaign County Forest Preserve District recognizes that the existing bike trail is in need of significant work and we are in the process of identifying sources of funding to renovate the trail.”

With a mission to collect public feedback, the District staff distributed an online survey and held two in-person events at Buffalo Trace. 

“As we prepare for that application, we wanted to check in with the public and trail users to see which, if any, additional amenities would be in demand for Buffalo Trace,” shared Pearson.

The result of these efforts included 216 online responses, and 20 in-person. 

The survey itself included four questions. 

“At Buffalo Trace, I’d most like to see (pick 5):”

“In the last 30 days, how many times have you visited Buffalo Trace?”

“What time(s) of the week do you visit?”

“What time(s) of the day do you visit?”

Based on the results, the CCFPD concluded that more than 40% of those surveyed would like to see more natural areas in addition to improvements on existing trails. At least one-third want to see both new trails and a natural playground at Buffalo Trace. 

Moreover, 22% of participants would like more or improved restrooms, 21% chose seating areas, and 15% outdoor fitness equipment. Expanded parking was another popular option. 

While many of those surveyed admitted to wanting to see change, one-quarter of people felt that Buffalo Trace needed no new development. 

The survey also reported that participants visit the area on average 5 times every thirty days. One in 10 claimed to visit at least every other day.

As for when those surveyed visit, there was a lot of consistency throughout the weekdays, yet the weekend remained the most popular with a 30% increase. 

Lastly, both online and in-person surveys verified that most people like to enjoy the area in the morning. 

“The short survey we conducted both validated some of our assumptions and gave us new insights on potential improvements,” Pearson added.

While changes are expected in the future, Pearson explained how the survey is just the beginning.

“We are still in the process of developing plans and the overall project scope. We want to be sure that we are including amenities that are both in demand and will be a good fit for the site.”

“We will continue to balance the impact of outdoor recreational needs with our restoration goals to ensure Buffalo Trace remains the extraordinary place it is.”