MREC survey results released

RONAN -- In May of 2006, high school Juniors and Seniorsthroughout the Mission Valley were surveyed about their opinions on the development of the Mission Range Event Complex (MREC).

The classes of 2006 and 2007 from Arlee, Charlo, Hot Springs,Ronan, Polson, St. Ignatius, and Two Eagle River were polled about basic demographics, their current activities, and their ideas concerning the direction and goals of the MREC.

The survey sampled 64 percent of all Juniors and 79 percent ofall graduating Seniors, with questions about their interests in three general activity areas: recreation, arts and entertainment, and culture/heritage. They were also asked about what they felt was needed to make the Event Complex successful, where they travel to participate in various activities now, and where they plan to locate after graduation.

In the area of recreation, students regularly participate in courtsports such as basketball and tennis, and would like to see those kinds of activities available at the Event Complex. Outdoor and indoor swimming pools garnered much attention.

Also, activities not traditionally offered in schools were wellrepresented, from laser tag to paintball to golf courses.

The art and entertainment category reflected the eclecticinterests of local youth: music concerts were the overwhelmingly preferred need; students also favored regular dances; again, however, responses ran the gamut ranging from live theater to welding labs, from sculpture to poetry readings.

Culture/heritage responses reflected, in large part, the rural andagricultural background of the students. Rodeos, powwows, and the county fair were among the more popular activities. Hunting and fishing have a strong influence on area youth. Other frequently mentioned events included horse shows, livestock sales, and family activities.

Regarding issues seen as key to the success of the EventComplex, students were largely of one voice: high school kids want a complex that is clean, well managed, and safe; they want easy access, low cost, and friendly staff; two concerns of virtually all the respondents were location of the Event Complex and transportation to and from it; finally, students realize that in order to be successful the Event Complex will need adequate funding, a wide variety of activities, and, most importantly, public support.

One conclusion that can be clearly reached from the surveyresults is that the Mission Valley has a highly mobile youth population. Students are regularly traveling long distances (Missoula, Kalispell, Spokane, Bozeman) to attend activities and events not offered locally.

Area high schools and community centers are popular places forstudents to engage in recreational activities, however, access and hours of operation are limiting factors.

For complete results of the MREC survey, contact the LakeCounty Extension Office, (406) 676-4271.