The need for proactive environmental planning in local government: Examining challenges and pathways forward in Indiana

Many factors, including regulations, community values, and economic and environmental considerations, influence environmental planning decisions. Across the nation, local elected and appointed boards and commissions are responsible for planning and land use regulations. However, few studies have focused on environmental planning through comprehensive and parks and recreation plans. Using Indiana communities as a case study, this research highlights the theory and practice of environmental planning and community development, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and the presence of social capital. Statewide focus groups found that communities integrate varying environmental planning processes into comprehensive and parks and recreation plans. As a result, these plans represent underutilized potential to guide conservation and collaboration. Integrating environmental planning into local government activities is limited by time, political will, and community awareness. As such, communities need continued support and resources to build social capital that leads to engaging with the public, decision-makers, and collaborators in meaningful ways to foster effective environmental planning.