The goals of this research were to identify factors that influence local decisions to protect open spaces and the associated natural resources and to better understand the context in which local government officials and citizens express support for additional policies to protect these resources. In order to determine community opinions related to land use and natural resources, a mail survey was administered to a random sample of adult residents and all local planning commission officials in the 22 counties in Indiana’s Upper Wabash River Basin. A comparative analysis was done to determine the relationship between attitudes of citizens and planning officials and how this can inform policy. This information can aid in determining public willingness to incorporate natural resources into land use plans as it compares to local government official’s willingness to protect natural resources and open spaces. Results of this research will assist communities as they cope with balancing issues of community growth, environmental protection, and quality of life.