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It’s clear Albertans love the great outdoors, but a new survey shows just how much.

The survey, conducted by the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, suggests 76 per cent of adult Albertans regularly participate in outdoor recreation and an even higher percentage — 88 per cent — would like to see more wilderness set aside as protected areas.

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“We knew Albertans really identify with the outdoors,” said Katie Morrison, conservation director with the southern Alberta chapter of CPAWS.

Almost everyone surveyed — 94 per cent — believe wilderness areas are important because they help preserve plant and animal species, while 83 per cent would like to see those areas left in their natural condition.

In addition, 86 per cent of Albertans would prioritize non-motorized recreation in wilderness areas.

The survey comes after the province has committed to protecting the Castle wilderness area in southern Alberta as two provincial parks and as it continues to update its land-use and recreation planning strategies across Alberta.