DEP polls for future use of recreational areas Visitors to New Jersey's parks, forests and historic sites can help shape the future of recreational areas by participating in a new survey. The survey is now available online and at area offices, according to a press release from state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Lisa P. Jackson. "New Jersey's recreational areas contribute immeasurably to our quality of life," Jackson said in the release. "We want to know what matters most to our visitors as we begin making improvements to existing facilities and developing new amenities." The DEP will be conducting the visitor surveys throughout the summer to better understand the public's top priorities for park improvements that include campsites, trails, swimming areas, historic restoration, and boating and fishing access, according to the press release. Last November, New Jersey voters made future site improvements possible by approving a constitutional amendment that provides funding - $15 million a year until 2015 and $32 million annually beginning in 2016 - for maintenance and capital improvements at state parks, historic sites and wildlife areas, the press release said. The public can participate in shaping the future of state recreational sites by completing a survey online at www.njparksandforests.org or in person at any park, forest or historic site office.