A task force to develop practical ideas from suggestions made at last year's Governor's Outdoors Conference and subsequent town hall meetings has turned in some 40, a list of ways intended to encourage people to seek outdoor experiences.

The conference was organized after statistics showed a growing disconnect between Americans -- particularly children and young adults -- and nature.

"This report helps to continue the conversation about how to protect and enhance those connections and in the process build good stewards of our natural resources," said Michael DiBerardinis, secretary of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, in a prepared statement.

The 16-member task force proposed suggestions ranging from the questionable ("Encourage media outlets to adopt more positive slants in weather forecasts") to the pragmatic ("Establish greater river access for fishing and non-powered boating in our large cities").

Among the group's key proposals is the establishment of a Governor's Commission on People and Outdoors Connections. Other recommendations include:

• Redefining hunting as a positive and necessary enterprise emphasizing ecosystem management and environmental stewardship.

• Providing teachers with curricula relevant to minority populations.

• Developing and supporting mentor programs that encourage fishing and hunting.

• Developing connectors between communities and outdoor resources such as trails and rivers.

• Embracing technologies such as geocaching and podcasts that may have greater relevance for younger generations.