The History of the Water Trail Systems What is a Water ... · Susan Schwartz Stephen Twelker Wendy Wilson Alanna Woodward ... by Jordan Sector ... creating a water trail. Many believe

Volume 16| Number 2 - 2006A River Network Publication

cont. on page 4

hat do you mean, a water trail?

There are 369 water definitions, from“water” to “water yam,” in my Webster’sUnabridged Dictionary, and only one—

“waterway”— bears any relation to “water trail.” Soit’s a made-up description, just as are thousands ofother words in today’s maritime lexicon.

Right up until recently, waterway was the proper wordto describe a route over water. Native Americans,voyageurs and Lewis-and-Clark types, in generaltraveled by water because land trails were few or non-existent, but they didn’t call them water trails. Let’s seeif we can trace the name to its modern meaning.

Since World War II, a number of recreationalwaterways have been developed, manyalong ancientinland routes, suchas Maine’s AllagashWildernessWaterway andMinnesota’sBoundary WatersCanoe AreaWilderness, toname just two ofthe best known. In 1987, the Maine Island Trail, a325-mile-long waterway winding along the state’sisland studded coast, was established. It differed fromall others, however, in that a private membershiporganization—the Maine Island Trail Association(MITA)—was created to operate it for its parentorganization, the nonprofit Island Institute. Althoughthe State of Maine was closely involved in the creationof the Maine Island Trail, care for the state’s wildislands in the trail became the responsibility of theusers and not a government authority.

WAt the heart of the trail system were some two dozenstate-owned wild islands for which MITA assumedcare. Within a few months, three privately ownedislands were added to the trail and were open only tomembers of the association, a powerful incentive forboaters to join MITA. The organization grew rapidly,and in the early ‘90s, spun off from the Island Instituteto become an independent nonprofit. By 2005, itserved 3,500 members and listed 156 sites on islandsand the mainland.

MITA’s unusual approach emphasizing personalstewardship and responsible use of the resourceprompted others to follow suit, and water trailorganizations were soon established in Seattle(Washington Water Trails Association) and on New

York’s Hudson River (Hudson RiverWatertrail Association). Notice that“water trail,” either as one or twowords, was already in use. As near asthis writer can determine, the word(s)seemed to cover the waterfront, so tospeak, and had a natural,unremarkable and unknown birth.

What was important, one can see inhindsight, was the development of water

trails specifically for (a) recreational use, that (b)emphasize stewardship and (c) are cared for by theusers, the latter frequently members of a privateorganization set up for this task alone. Time, locationand different circumstances saw this simple definitionfurther broken down as water trails were created onsalt water, lakes and rivers, and even over land/waterroutes such as the impressive 700-mile-long NorthernForest Canoe Trail. Some were started by privategroups, others by state or regional governmententities, but most by an amalgam of partnerships of

The History of the Water Trail Systems

What is a Water Trail?by Dave Getchell

2 River Network • RIVER VOICES • Volume 16, Number 2

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RIVER NETWORK STAFFMatthew BurkeGeoff DatesSteve Dickens Don ElderThomas Fitzgerald Jean A. HamillaGayle KillamKatherine Luscher

Margaret McCoyDeb MerchantPat MunozEric RelationSusan SchwartzStephen TwelkerWendy WilsonAlanna Woodward

River Voices is a forum for information exchange among river and watershedgroups across the country. River Network welcomes your comments and sugges-tions. River Network grants permission and encourages sharing and reprinting ofinformation from River Voices, unless the material is marked as copyrighted. Pleasecredit River Network when you reprint articles and send the editor a copy.Additional copies and back issues are available from our national office.

Editor: Katherine Luscher

Editorial Assistance: Jean A. Hamilla, Alanna Woodward

Design & Layout: Greer Graphics

River Network is a national, nonprofit

organization whose mission is to help

people understand, protect and restore

rivers and their watersheds.

CONTENTS

1 What is a Water Trail?

by Dave Getchell

3 From the President

6 Guiding Principles

by RTCA & NAWT

8 Traits of a Successful Water Trail

by RTCA staff

10 What is a Water Trail Plan?

by Jordan Sector

12 You’re Never Paddling Alone…

by Corita Jones

14 Private Land Access

by Dave Mention

16 Interpretive Signs and Maps

by Kate Williams

18 Management and Maintenance of your Trail

by Reed Waite

20 Leave No Trace Principles

21 The ACA’s Water Trails Program

by Paul Sanford

22 Water Trails Risk Management

by Leslie White

24 Adventures in Water Trail Development

by Brook Lenker

26 Resources & References

27 River Network Partnership

Volume 16, Number 2 • River Network • RIVER VOICES 3

From The President

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hat’s in a name? In the case of the term “watertrail,” a lot.

About twenty years ago I became involved in an effort toprotect my hometown river. One of our goals was to conservethe forested river corridor. Another was to establish hikingand biking trails through the corridor to promote recreation,education and greater support for conservation.

But there was a problem: if heavily-used hiking and bikingtrails were established through the entire steep-slopedcorridor, they could easily be abused or overwhelmed, andthe river could easily be “loved to death.” I called a ParkService planner whose advice I valued. After hearing meexplain our concern, he said that I should think of the riveritself as a trail.

I must admit that even though I was an avid boater, this was anew concept to me. But it made good sense. The idea stuckwith our group, and we changed the focus of our emergingplan accordingly.

In the years since, the term “water trail” has gained muchcurrency. Today, there are extensive water trails beingdeveloped and protected from coast to coast. In many cases,they are a critical piece of an overall plan for watershededucation, recreation, protection and management.

This issue of River Voices features some of the best thinking ofleaders in this emerging field, as well as, some inspirationalcase studies. I hope you find it useful.

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cont. from page 1 one sort or another. Among many otherplaces, water trails now run throughWashington, DC, and Chicago; along thebeautiful Columbia River; in the headwatersof the Mississippi; over the black water riversof South Carolina; on the Great Lakes; andon many of Canada’s mighty rivers.

This burst of development had its start in1993 when the National Park Service’s Riversand Trails section, working with WashingtonWater Trails, the Hudson River WatertrailAssociation and MITA, sponsored the firstwater trailconference at Mills-Norrie State Parkon the Hudson.Interested partiesfrom across thecontinent attended,and from it camean informalorganization calledthe NorthAmerican WaterTrails Conferenceset up to continuethe enthusiasmgenerated by thegathering. This

group eventually gained nonprofit status asNorth American Water Trails, Inc., andsince then has sponsored conferences atShepherdstown, WV; San Destin, FL andSouth Portland, ME.

Because each water trail is unique due tothe conditions at hand, both political andphysical, as noted above, the definition hasbecome fuzzy, to say the least. Some havebeen established by state agencies, usually adepartment of natural resources; others bynational agencies such as in Canada; and a

few by privategroups (NGO’sor non-governmentalorganizations intoday’sparlance) such asland trusts, clubsor MITA-likegroups. Selfpolicing andstewardship mayor may not beexpected,although onelikes to thinksimply beingthere inspires a

modicum of care for the environment. Onething is certain, and that is on a continentgifted with all kinds of water resources,there is a need and untold opportunities fornew water trails.

Let me inject here something that’s easilyoverlooked by enthusiasts thinking aboutcreating a water trail. Many believe suchtrails are primarily for kayaks, canoes andother human powered craft. Sometimeslimiting the type of craft may make sense,but consider the ramifications. Restrictingtypes reduces numbers so there may not beenough users to support the trail. Limitingmay also polarize paddlers verses the rest of

What is a Water Trail?, cont.

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Paddlers enjoying an afternoon on water trails.


the boating world,bringing on thatnasty word “elitism.”Originally, manythought the MaineIsland Trail was forkayakers only(unfortunately,some still do), but itwas laid out by twoguys in theiroutboardmotorboats and listsamong itsmembershipyachtsmen, powerboaters and even acouple of jetskiers.What is moreimportant than boattypes is the positiveattitudes of theirowners, and inMITA’s case, at least,that has been a rousing success.

So how does one go about starting a watertrail? Before anything is done, a perceivedneed, a suitable water resource, and one ormore persons with a bit of vision andpreferably with fire in their bellies to see theproject carried through, are required. Fromthere it may be simple—but don’t count onit. Any trail needs a beginning and an endand, depending on its length, may needstopping off points in between. This willprobably mean dealing with governmentagencies and private landowners; and if youthink this is always easy, you’re smoking apipe of high-test dream-weed. Persistence,diplomacy, patience and a large dollop ofluck are givens. The Rivers & Trails sectionof the National Park Service, mentionedabove, is a good source of information.

There is no need to be put off by thesewords of caution, which are offered only toalert you to possible bumps in your trail.

We’ve seen projects come and go, and somewith great promise that were never started.Today, changes in the recreational scene arecoming at a baffling rate with restrictionson what you can do and where you can goseemingly in the forefront. Fortunately,water trails can help counter these chillingeffects, a major argument for theircreation—to say nothing of the tremendouspleasure they can offer.

Information in considerable detail on thehow-to aspects of starting a water trail canbe found at americaswatertrails.org. It’sworth a look.

Dave Getchell, Sr., was co-founder of the MaineIsland Trail and North American Water Trails,Inc. He is presently Trails Advisor of the GeorgesRiver Land Trust, helping that organization devel-op a 60-mile-long hiking trail, the GeorgesHighland Path, through the river's watershed.

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Dedication Ceremonyon the NorthernForest Canoe Trail

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The Vision

ater trails are rocky seacoasts, awooded river-bend, sandy

shorelines, a quiet marsh and a busy harbor.They are recreational waterways betweenspecific locations containing access pointsand day use sites. They are launch rampsand overnight campsites. They are boats andpaddles and cameras and field guides. Watertrails are blue ribbons following the waysidesights and sounds of people and naturethroughout the continent, with diverse usersenjoying this network of liquid pathwaysfrom sea to shining sea and from tropic gulfto icy fjord.

But water trails are more than a geographicalphenomenon; they are alive. They areanimated by the pursuits of their buildersand their users. Water trails connect peoplewith places and simultaneously enrich andprotect both. By identifying and interpretingplaces, both natural and constructed, thewater trail brings the user into contact withthe whole ecology of the corridor. Theinterpretation and preservation of ourcultural heritage is no less important thanthe protection and conservation of the earth,the sky and the plants and animals withwhich they are intertwined. In the process,the user learns and grows physically,mentally and emotionally, while thecommunity grows in spirit, in economichealth and in vitality.

Water trails are individualistic. Each watertrail exists in a unique natural setting, isinhabited by unique wildlife and serves aunique human population. Thus, a carefullywrought set of local purposes greatlyenlarges the contributions that a water trailmakes to its indigenous human and naturalsurroundings.

Water trails don’t just happen. Most trailsreflect the work of a committed trailcoalition. To realize the potential beauty andliveliness of each water trail requires the

active intervention of trail builder, trailmanager and trail user from the beginningand their continuing vigilance throughoutthe life cycle of the trail.

The water trail vision is best fulfilled whenglobal principles, augmented by localpurposes, guide trail development and use.Successful water trails have used thefollowing “Principles” as a framework forthe development of their definitive traildesign and management plan. Use themwisely to steer your course, to inspire yourlocal purposes and to gauge your progress.Guided by these “Principles,” every watertrail will manifest a spirit—an expression ofvalues that capture the essence ofcommunity, of exploration and of growingand of caring that is so characteristic ofNorth America and its people.

WATER TRAILPRINCIPLES

PARTNERSHIPSCooperating and Sharing

A water trail is the product of partnershipsamong an array of governmental and non-governmental entities. With volunteers asthe key supporters and advocates of thetrail, partnerships are developed amonggovernment land managing agencies,private property owners, governmentregulatory agencies, user groups and localbusinesses. Together, these groups cancreate and maintain a successful water trailwith broad-based and long-term support.

STEWARDSHIPLeaving No Trace!

Water trails promote minimum-impactpractices that ensure a sustainable future forwaterways and adjacent lands. Water trailsembrace the Leave No Trace Code ofOutdoor Ethics that promotes theresponsible use and enjoyment of theoutdoors. A trail user who understandstheir potential impacts to water, soil,

by National ParkService’s River Trails

and ConservationAssistance Program

&North American

Water Trails

www.nps.gov/rtca

Water Trails in Northern America

Guiding Principles

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vegetation and wildlife will be a bettercaretaker. When users learn to protect andrestore areas along the trail, they may beinclined to do likewise in their owncommunities and backyards.

VOLUNTEERISM Experiencing the Joy of Involvement

Most water trails are created, promoted andmaintained through the energy anddedication of local citizens, workingindividually and through organizations tosupport the trail. Community involvementand volunteerism are the keys to developinga sense of trail stewardship, promoting thetrail within the community, encouragingrespect for the trail’s natural and culturalheritage, and ensuring that localgovernments support the trail’s existence.Through love of place and of good times,volunteers bring hard work and celebrationto the water trail community.

EDUCATION Learning by Experience

Through comprehensive trail guides,signage, public outreach and informativeprograms, water trail organizationsencourage awareness of the natural, culturaland historical attributes of the trail. Servingas outdoor classrooms, water trails teachthrough seeing, listening, touching—experiencing.

CONSERVATIONProtecting our Natural and Cultural Heritage

Water trail activities support theconservation of the aquatic ecosystem,contiguous lands and important culturalartifacts. Trail builders and activists are arespected constituency advocating forresource protection and participating inresource restoration. The water trailcommunity is a watchdog in prevention ofenvironmentally harmful acts, striving tosustain the natural integrity of the trail andpreserve the quality of the trail experience.

COMMUNITY VITALITYConnecting People and Places

A water trail is a network of recreationaland educational opportunities. Hikingtrails, bikeways, greenways, museums,historic sites, parks and preserves areconnected by water trails creating frontiersfor exploration, discovery and enrichment.The connections build a sense of place andbind citizens in a love for their community.Water trails link families who growtogether through work and play on thetrail.

DIVERSITYProviding Opportunities for All

Water trails are non-exclusive. They benefitthe able-bodied and the disabled, theyoung and the old, the disadvantaged andthe advantaged. Water trails welcome allthose that want to respectfully enjoy andappreciate the trail experience. Throughshared work and play, tolerance andunderstanding are fostered. Broad-basedparticipation in trail activities is achievedthrough affirmative outreach andrecruitment.

WELLNESS AND WELL-BEINGCaring for Self and Others

Water trails are wholesome; fresh air andexercise bring fitness and health to trailusers. While actively promoting thesebenefits, water trail users need reliable andaccurate safety information and training toresponsibly enjoy and appreciate watertrails. Safe use requires a commitment tosafe design and sound management.Awareness, education and safety skillstraining in health promote the wellness andwell-being of all water trail users.

reating a water trail takes time, energy and various other resources. Fortunately,those interested in water trails can learn from the experience and expertise ofothers who have been involved in the creation of existing water trails.

It probably goes without saying that the establishment of a water trail will most likely requirea collaborative effort, and that the process is usually enhanced if and when a specificpartnership or organization is designated as the leader. Below is a list of other characteristicscommon among some of our country’s most successful water trails.


PHYSICAL SUPPORTFacilities and Infrastructure

● Safe and legal launch and landing sitesand facilities (general guidelines: every5-8 miles for long-distance, wildernesspaddling/camping trails; every 1-2 milesfor urban, day-use trails).

● Safe and ample trailhead parking (atlaunch sites).

● Places to rent boats andequipment and learn aboutsafety

● Lock-up facilities for boats andequipment at communityaccess points

● Facilities for storing small,non-motorized boats along thetrail

● Places to stay overnight (campsites, hotels, B&Bs)

● Places to visit and explore along thetrail (such as interpretive sites,museums, restaurants, retail stores,hiking trails, parks and picnic areas,bird and wildlife viewing spots.

ORGANIZATIONALSUPPORT Possible ROLES to Coordinate

and Manage a Water Trail:

● Serve as a clearing house.

● Provide a regional voice.

● Serve as a liaison with stakeholders,neighbors, officials, landowners, andpublic (communities, park boards,tourism offices, outfitters, recreationgroups, politicians, etc.)

● Develop and implement an actionplan.

● To pool resources and set priorities.

Possible TASKS to Coordinate

and Manage a Water Trail

● Agree on an action plan (with vision,goals, recommended actions, and atime frame).

● Develop a master plan for the WaterTrail (inventory of existing resources,recommendations for future).

● Produce and distribute maps of theWater Trail.

Do It Right from the Start

Traits of Successful Water Trailsby National Park

Service’s River Trailsand Conservation

Assistance Program &

North AmericanWater Trails

www.nps.gov/rtca

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● Advocate safety along the trail:

◗ Establish a regional system of signsmarking launch, landing andcamp sites.

◗ Promote boating regulations.◗ Develop a trail etiquette (code of

ethics).◗ Provide emergency contact

information.

● Promote education and stewardshipalong the trail.

◗ Work to instill an environmentalawareness of the river corridor,such as:

◆ Endangered Species Actmessages;

◆ water quality,wildlife habitat andother resourceprotectionmessages;and

◆ respect forprivate propertyrights.

◗ Provide trail orientation andwayfaring information.

◗ Promote and coordinatestewardship activities, such as:

◆ resource monitoring andinventorying,

◆ habitat restoration work,◆ remove invasive species,◆ clean-up events, and◆ adopt-a-trail for sections

and/or reaches of the river.

◗ Provide interpretation of sites andresources along the trail.

● Coordinate volunteers and serviceprograms (for stewardship, education,marketing, etc.), including:

◗ community and school efforts,◗ Earth Share, and◗ Student Conservation Service.

● Organize promotion and publicity.

◗ Establish a regional identity (logo)for the trail.

◗ Produce a trail overview andregional map showing trailsections or reaches based ongeography, jurisdictions,landscape character, etc.

◗ Assemble a media/press kit (flyer,photos, human interest stories,etc.).

◗ Put out a newsletter or MonthlyCalendar of Events.◗ Sponsor traildedication events.◗ Sponsor on-goingtrail events.

◗ Encourage andsupport local and regional

history and stories (NativeAmericans, Pioneers, Early

Explorers, Settlers,Transportation/Shipping,

Fishing/Processing,Timber, Community

Treasures, etc.).


hroughout history, water trailshave been an important way tomove people and goods alongwaterways. Today a revival of

water trails is being driven by increasingdemand for water based recreational andeducational opportunities.

Planning a water trail requires maintaining acareful balance between protecting theresource and responding to the needs oflandowners and trail users. Mostimportantly, water trail planning requires acoordinated vision between thecommunity, affected jurisdictionsand agency representatives.

A water trail plan should includetwo primary planning efforts: along term vision as well asshort, medium and long termaction items. The componentsof a vision plan should:

◆ work to communicate whythe trail is important,

◆ define a trail identity and theme,

◆ identify stakeholders and communityleaders,,

◆ identify site opportunities andconstraints,

◆ include an inventory of trail featuresand facilities,

◆ develop a framework for maintenanceand natural resource protection, and

◆ provide recommendations to beexplored in greater depth in the actionplan process.

Moreover, water trail vision plans can beadopted by local jurisdictions andintegrated into their comprehensive plansand capital improvement programs.

The action plan helps provide a frameworkfor prioritizing enhancement opportunities

and linking them to funding sources.Most importantly, the action plan:

◆ addresses the feasibility ofindividual projects,

◆ describes proposed siteimprovements such as, retrofitof docks for non-motorizedwatercraft and adjustment ofpath systems to supportuniversal access and easy entryto the waterway,

◆ sets a schedule for implementation,and

◆ provides related connections to local,state and regional planning efforts.

Most plans start from grassroots advocacyefforts. For example, Oregon’s SiuslawEstuary water trail started as a grassrootseffort to improve opportunities for waterquality and estuary monitoring. Thecreation of a water trail plan helped tosustain the vision and showcase thepotential benefits of the trail beyond theinitial intention of the planning group. Suchgroups provide foundation, energy andvision that are needed to see the planningeffort through to implementation.

Coordination and writing of water trailplans need a specific set of planning anddesign expertise. The importance ofenlisting planning and design expertise is to

by Jordan Sector

Landscape Designer/PlannerAlta Planning & Design

Portland, Oregon

Visioning Success

What is a Water Trail Plan?

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craft a product that can show a vision and tomake connections to other local, regional orstate wide planning efforts. Currently, theCity of Wilsonville staff and consultants, asuburb south of Portland Oregon, areworking to developing watertrail concepts as part of acomprehensive bicycleand pedestrian plan forthe city’s portion of theWillamette River. Thisplan also makesreference and showsconnections to theWillamette River Water TrailPlan being developed by the WillametteRiverkeepers of Portland, Oregon.

The water trail plan connects water andland based trail systems, ultimately forminga network of transportation, recreation andresource conservation opportunities. Awater trail plan should become part of a

jurisdiction’s non-motorizedtransportation plan,an element of a parksand greenways planand part of a naturalresource plan. Byproviding theseconnections, thewater trail becomes a

value-added recreation andnatural resource experience that will berooted in the community for years to come.

A clear informative map should be an integral piece of any water trail project.


addling down a quiet stretch ofriver, Charlotte thinks she’salone. Her boat (rented at thelocal kayak shop) barely stirs the

calm water (protected upstream and down bythe watershed association); her gaze eagerlysoaks up the peaceful view (conserved by anarea land trust) when she spies a signmarking her camping site (sign - water trailorganization; site - Department of NaturalResources maintained). It turns out she isn’treally alone! Successful water trails engagemultiple, diverse partners to help create newstewards, stimulate economies, providerecreational access and connect communitiesall around one purpose—establishing asuccessful water route where they canpaddle, float or boat with good access andeven overnight locations.

The communityassistance arm ofthe National ParkService, the Rivers,Trails andConservationAssistance (RTCA)Program providestechnical assistanceto helpcommunitiesrealize theirconservation andoutdoorrecreation goals.We have beenworking for thelast 13 yearshelping buildpartnerships todesign, createand find fundingfor water trails inevery region ofthe country.These watertrails, or

Building the Partnerships to Design, Fund and Create Your Trail

You’re Never Paddling Alone...

blueways, range from multi-use trails on theGreat Lakes to rivers meandering throughWestern natural areas to Northeasternurban paddling opportunities, but they allhave a strong partnership as a feature.

Building PartnershipsSolid partnerships are the key to successfulwater trails. Traditional partners on watertrail projects include local paddling clubsand paddlers, watershed associations andlocal government agencies. Thinkingoutside the boundaries, literally andfiguratively, helps a water trail thrive. Bybringing in new partners, like localeconomic development and landconservation organizations, chambers ofcommerce, local university students orbusinesses (retailers, vendors andoutfitters), a group gains a novel outlookfor their water trail visions. Each partnerhas a unique perspective: nonprofit groupsoffer flexibility and volunteer power; localand state governments provide financial andlegal stability; landowners contribute accesspoints; and businesses supply communityresources.

Finding FundingSuccessful water trails embody animpressive combination of values that serveusers, local communities and the ecosystem.This broad appeal helps water trails secure avariety of funding sources as they are seenas win/win propositions by all. Water trailgoals include creating public access,providing recreational boatingopportunities, promoting minimum-impactpractices, offering natural, historical andcultural education, enhancing communityeconomic vitality and connecting peoplewith each other and natural resources.

Sometimes unlikely partners and fundersturn up in the most unexpected places; likeCharlotte, we all must open our eyes to thepossibilities water trails provide!

Pby Corita Jones

National Park Service’s River Trails

and Conservation Assistance Program

www.nps.gov/rtca

Potential Funding Sources:

◆ Federal Recreation Trails Program

◆ Land Trusts

◆ Coastal Zone Management Program

◆ State Government Grants

◆ Hydropower Companies

◆ Private Foundations

◆ Community Foundations

◆ Homeowner Associations

◆ Chambers of Commerce

◆ Economic Development

◆ Tourism Districts

◆ Resorts, Outfitters

◆ Landowners

◆ National Outdoor Recreation

Organizations

◆ State Historical Society

◆ Native American Tribes

◆ Watershed Councils

◆ University Sea Grant

◆ Underwriters; members

◆ Local Businesses

◆ Transportation Enhancements

PADDLEMANATEEBy Jaime Doubek-Racine, NPS RTCAManatee County and the National ParkService RTCA Program worked togetherin a collaborative partnership to create aseries of over 75 miles of paddling trailsthrough wondrous area waterways.Impetus The paddling trails offer opportunities forpaddling and nature appreciation,education about the coastal/riverineenvironment, GPS information and apaddling guidebook, Paddle Manatee. Theguide, along with designated routes, helpsdirect paddlers through mangrove and openwater terrain.

Partners and Financial AssistanceFrom 2000-2002, RTCA worked with ManateeCounty to develop a master plan for a county-wide system of trails, greenways and blueways;additional planning, grant writing andtechnical assistance were also made available.The Florida Coastal Management Programprovided $25,000 for Paddle Manatee and theFlorida Fish and Wildlife ConservationCommission assisted in the permit review andapproval process, allowing for the installationof the mile markers.

Interagency cooperation and communityinvolvement made the trail a success.Volunteers on a citizen’s advisory committeeworked with Manatee County and RTCA tomap routes, assist with planning, andcoordinate public workshops and thededication ceremony. In 2005, RTCA andManatee County collaborated to create a 2ndedition of Paddle Manatee.


THE MILWAUKEE

URBAN WATER TRAILBy Angie Tornes, NPS RTCA

Not just comprised of concrete and steel, the

water trail is a route through urban Milwaukee

and neighboring communities enshrouded by

lush vegetation along 25-miles on the Milwaukee,

Menomonee and Kinnickinnic Rivers.

Impetus

The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail was created in

response to a gap between increased interest in

river recreation and limited information on safe

and legal access to Milwaukee’s rivers. Friends of

Milwaukee’s Rivers recognized this need and saw

this project as an opportunity to also educate

paddlers about the river’s history and encourage

its stewardship.

Partners and

Financial Assistance

RTCA provided technical assistance in

developing a work plan, a broad partnership, a

map and a brochure; providing gap analysis

reports; and finding funding. Partners include

Friends of Milwaukee’s Rivers (lead), Wisconsin

Department of Natural Resources, City of

Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, PDI Site

Engineering, the Badger State Boating Society

and individual boaters. Financial assistance was

provided by the National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration, Wisconsin Coastal

Management Program, Wisconsin Energy

Foundation, Bert L. and Patricia S. Steigleder

Charitable Trust, Milwaukee River Revitalization

Council, American Canoe Association, L.L. Bean,

Inc., Badger State Boating Society, the Milwaukee

River Riverwalk District and members of Friends

of Milwaukee’s Rivers.


our members follow Leave No Traceguidelines, how the owner can remove thesite from the trail at any time, how we willfind adopters and schedule cleanup visits tothe property. We offer references from otherprivate land owners. We give examples ofstewardship visits we have made to othernearby islands, and we make estimates ofwhat the MITA traffic is likely to be, basedon similar islands. Sometimes we have toovercome misperceptions about MITA, andwe are not always successful. But often theowners realize that MITA and its membersshare a love of the islands and the inclusionof their property on the Trail provides morecare and stewardship than they can providealone.

In 1991, we had65 sites: 37public and 29private; in 2006we have 156sites: 67 publicand 89 private.Thirty-three aremainland sitesand theremaining 123sites are islands.Members areexpected tofollow Leave NoTrace guidelines,and theoverwhelmingmajority

complies, including carrying off humanwaste. When a site is included on the Trail,there is often just a recommendation ofwhere to pitch a tent. So our maintenance islimited to cleanup visits (usually sea-borneflotsam, only rarely camper waste), visitoreducation and monitoring for excessive use.

Risk management insurance is not an issue,as Maine state law provides that landownersare not liable for accidents that occur on

he Maine Island TrailAssociation (MITA) doesn’t ownany property. Since 1987, it hasrelied on permission from public

and private landowners for access to the 156islands and mainland sites that comprise theTrail. Fortunately, getting that permissionhas not been an obstacle for us. MITA hasmanaged to establish enduring annual“handshake relationships” with islandowners, which allow member access whileproviding stewardship to the islands.

In Maine, private property extends to thelow water mark. The recreational boater hasno legal right to come ashore unless he/shehas permission. Some landowners don’tmind respectfulvisitors comingashore, as long asthey follow theguidelines of theowner.

Private land comesin two flavors:individual landowners, such asfamilies, andorganizationalowners, such asland conservationorganizations. Ourapproach has beenthe same in bothcases.

Often we discover aninteresting piece of property because theowner shares our values and contacts us. Inthe event that we want to talk about aproperty and we haven’t been contacted, weidentify the owner from town tax maps. Weresearch any common connections. The TrailDirector then calls the property owner andmakes an appointment. Generally, coastalland owners have heard about the MaineIsland Trail Association. We talk about how

Getting Access on Private Lands ~ Working with Landowners

Private Land Access

by Dave Mention

Maine Island Trail Access

[email protected]

Creosote Inventory on Blake Island,Washington

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private land,if no moneyhas changedhands. Thisis a benefit ofliving in astate that hasan extensivehistory ofhunting andpermissivetrespass forhunting onprivate lands.

Landownersrarely takeproperty offthe trail.When theydo, mostoften it isbecause theyare selling the land, or they wish to build onthe property. Occasionally, we takeproperties off because of nesting birds.

With each passing year, more and moreMaine land is being purchased byconservation organizations. MITA canprovide them with an expanded set ofcaretakers for their property. We see ourcollaboration with private andorganizational land owners as being a win-win collaboration for all parties.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

DAVID MENTIONTrail Director, Maine Island Trail Association

58 Fore Street Building 30, 3rd floor, Portland, ME 04101207/761-8225 ~ [email protected]

Opening day ofOregon’s WillametteRiver Water Trail

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ater trails are a unique bird inthe flock of recreational trails.The actual trail part of watertrails is, well, there, and

typically has been for a long time. In fact, therivers, streams and lakes that are the basicelements of water trails have, in many cases,created the topography through which theypass. No sweaty trail-building effort neededhere, just millennia of melt and erosion andgeological morphology.

So what transforms these fundamentalwaterways into water trails? At the NorthernForest Canoe Trail (NFCT), it is our beliefthat it all comes down to a good story,translated onto the ground through signsand maps. The Northern Forest Canoe Trailis a 740-mile water trail traversing New York,Vermont, Québec, New Hampshire andMaine. The Trail connects 22 rivers andstreams, and 56 lakes and ponds, as it tracestraditional watershed travel routes used byNative Americans and subsequent Europeantrappers and settlers in the region. Thestory—still being told—is a fascinating one,which follows the movement of people inboats on the water for purposes ofexploration, trade, hunting, fishing, visiting,occasionally pursuing or escaping conflict

Northern Forest Canoe Trail

Interpretive Signs and Mapsand, increasingly, seeking solace andrecreation.

The Northern Forest Canoe Trail hascreated a series of 13 interpretive maps andan extensive set of signs and kiosks thatidentify the framework of this story on ourwaterway route.

NFCT MapsThe NFCT route is divided into 13 sections,each of which is hosted by a localorganization. From the outset, NFCT staffhave worked closely with these hostorganizations to develop a strong base oflocal volunteers who are the on-the-grounddrafters of the maps. These volunteers—paddlers, local historians, field scientists,retired schoolteachers and all committedresidents of communities along the Trail—provide the raw material for the maps. Theydescribe the best portage around the olddam; they hunt down photos of the rare St.John Tansy; they tell us the old loggingstories whose evidence is still apparent onriver banks. In this way, the story of theroute is brought into our maps, with NFCTserving as the collator of the overall tale.

NFCT maps contain both detailed routeinformation on a water- and tear-resistant,

fold-out format, andinterpretive information aboutthe geology, flora and fauna, aswell as, a mix of the stories andlore that characterize eachsection. The sections rangefrom 40 to 75 miles, enablingus to include considerabledetail, while also providinginterested paddlers with amanageable chunk ofinformation to work with.

The sectional design alsounderscores in a tangible wayNFCT’s desire that the Trail beunderstood as aninterconnected set of stand-

by Kate Williams

Northern Forest Canoe Trail

Executive Director

www.northernforestcanoetrail.org

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Rangeley Kiosk onthe Northern

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alone experiences. Each waterway, evenwithin sections, is described in adownstream direction, and contactinformation for local chambers ofcommerce is provided on each map tofacilitate access to lodging, guiding andother services for each section. And, whileNFCT certainly supports and applaudsinterested through-paddlers—those hardypaddlers who wish to pursue the entire trailas an expedition—our maps reflect ourrecognition that for most of us, a pleasantafternoon, weekend or maybe a week withfamily or friends is the story we most wantto hear.

NFCT SignsIn support of our maps, NFCT posts well-placed, minimal signage on the route toindicate access points, portage trails andcampsites. Where possible, we coordinatewith existing signage, and place oursignature medallions on signs put up bypartners, with whom we have madearrangements. Our goal with this level ofsignage is to provide “confidence markers”for paddlers, letting them know they are onthe route, and enabling them to betteridentify where they are in relation to featuresidentified on the maps: “Oh, there’s acampsite marker—that must be the one justbefore the bridge where we wanted to pullover for lunch.”

NFCT is also developing a series of trailheadkiosks at key locations where the Trail andlocal communities intersect. The kiosksinclude map and route information on oneside, along with photos and text describingthe region and the Trail. The other sideincludes photography and brief interpretivetext about key attractions in the area. Thekiosks also include “changeable document”panels, where both NFCT and local partnerscan place and update information relevantto the Trail and the local area. These panelstypically include everything from local area

regulations, toLeave No TracePrinciples, tokey communityevents for theseason.

The kiosks aredevelopedthrough aprocess similarto that involvedin drafting ourmaps. Localindividuals helpidentify thestories theywant to tell andthe photos thatmight work well to convey a broader sense ofthe area. The goal is to have both the processand the product represent a coming togetherof the Trail and the community. We addressthis goal directly at the completion of eachkiosk by hosting local dedications andcelebrations where we thank communitypartners and share our excitement about thepartnership opportunities that lie ahead. Thestory continues.

An Ongoing StoryWe have learned a great deal in the last fiveyears as we have developed a water trail fromthe grassroots. We welcome opportunities toshare what we’ve learned, and to benefit fromthe experience of others.

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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

NORTH FOREST CANOE TRAIL802/496-2285 ~ email: [email protected] maps are printed and distributed by Mountaineers

Books and are available for sale on our website.

Northern ForestCanoe TrailMedallion


lanning and developing a watertrail can be heady stuff. Theexcitement of gaining newpartners and ribbon-cuttings

cap an extended period of intense planning.It’s now when the real work begins.Management and maintenance of your watertrail will extend decades into the future. Areyou ready?

The thought of human management or carefor a river, lake or ocean seems a bitcounterintuitive. These places should benatural. People want to experience wildplaces or primal rhythms of water, awayfrom human influence. One has only toexplore a small section of high water detritusbefore spotting pieces of plastic, Styrofoamand bright packaging—tell-tale signs ofhuman impact.

Dave Castor, Manager of Washington StateParks San Juan Marine Area, a popularsection of the Cascadia Marine Trail, knowsthere are other unwitting human effects.“Kayakers are energetic people. Unlikeboaters who come to shore briefly from theirmoored 35-foot sail or motor boats, kayakerswalk the shore, set up tents and activelyexplore the area. It has an impact.”Protection of endangered flora and fauna arereasons to limit human activity during some

Management & Maintenance of Your Trail

Protect Your Staff, Protect Your Mission

seasons, requiring education, signage andenforcement.

Riverine and marine shores display durableand fragile faces to the many forces workingupon them. Rugged coastlines withstandpounding waves for thousands of years,while rivers may change course annually.Certain campsites and launching areas willrequire more maintenance or even the useof temporary facilities. Landowners ormanaging agencies may have differentstandards or regulations that call for more,or less, maintenance than neighboringareas.

Leave No Trace, for many, is the best firstmaintenance activity. It spreads routinedaily maintenance to every user. Itsoutcome is a positive experience for thenext visitor—with a site left cleaner eachtime it is visited. Think of your ownreaction when this isn’t the case: boating into find a fire ring filled with burned bottlesor area “flowered” with white toilet paper.Leave No Trace ethics demonstrate a respectfor human, cultural and natural values.Education is key and should be acornerstone of any water trail effort.

Winter storms, winds, flooding, vegetativegrowth and human activity can alter sitesyearly. A “Site Steward” program is one wayto monitor the need for maintenance. Manyparks have residential managers or arevisited routinely by park or agency staff thattake care of maintenance. This may be oncea year at some remote islands, owing to thecost of getting there and the amount of usethis wilderness-type site gets. Urban sitesmay require weekly or daily checking andcare.

As most water trails pass politicalboundaries, cooperation between a watertrail organizing group and various landmanagers, safety responders, enforcementagencies and other groups with interestsalong the trail is a necessity. Water flows

by Reed Waite

Executive DirectorWashington Water Trails Association

www.wwta.org

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Nez Perce ClearwaterRiver Cleanup


downhill as do management directives.Getting buy-in from the top level of yourcooperators helps greatly. Water trails shouldbe win-win. Agencies and paddle clubschange over time as well, so keep track ofpersonnel, policies and master plans tomaintain relationships.

The need for maintenance may comequickly—graffiti on an outbuilding or signappearing overnight. Other wear takes years.Analyze and approach each situation withcare: “First, do no harm.” Medicalpractitioners help, or at least do no harm to,those to whom they give care. Will theupgrading of a facility create more use andhave downside potential? Each camp orlaunch site has its own unique set of issues toconsider. Slope, soil type and rain are a fewfactors to consider in maintaining land trails.Many water trail facilities are near or inwetlands, requiring special care. Findknowledgeable resources to plan and carryout maintenance. (See Resources andReferences)

The need for volunteers increases every year.People volunteering require their own careand recognition. The summer is a hard timeto recruit volunteers, as they are vacationingor on the water. Park managers may not beable handle help when their parks arebusiest. In the coastal Pacific Northwest,

most restoration work takes place inthe fall. Winter rains waternaturally, making the fall an idealtime for new native plants. Spring isthe time to repair damage from thestronger storms of winter, toprepare campsites for the upcomingheavier use of summer and to get ajump on invasive plants before theyhave a chance to grow. People areanxious to get outdoors in thespring and are willing to helpimprove places they may bethinking of visiting later in the year.

Good development is part ofmaintenance. Finding the bestlocation and putting infacilities that match thelocation will lessen theamount of maintenance. It’s afluid world, so don’t be afraidto return to your original planand modify it in light ofexperience. Keeping yourwater trail running smoothly extends yourability to sustain, and grow, a water trail.

Columbia River Island Site Survey

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Top right: Blake IslandCampgroundMaintenance.

Bottom: Plantingnative grasseson Blake Island.

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PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE ◗ Know the regulations and special concerns for

the area you’ll visit.◗ Prepare for extreme weather, hazards and

emergencies.◗ Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.◗ Visit in small groups. Split larger parties into

groups of 4-6.◗ Repackage food to minimize waste.◗ Use a map and compass to eliminate the use

of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging.

TRAVEL AND CAMP ON DURABLE SURFACES ◗ Durable surfaces include established trails

and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses orsnow.

◗ Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200feet from lakes and streams.

◗ Good campsites are found, not made.Altering a site is not necessary.

◗ In popular areas:◆ Concentrate use on existing trails and

campsites.◆ Walk single file in the

middle of the trail,even when wet ormuddy.

◆ Keep campsites small.Focus activity in areaswhere vegetation isabsent.

◗ In pristine areas:◆ Disperse use to prevent

the creation ofcampsites and trails.

◆ Avoid places whereimpacts are just beginning.

DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY◗ Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite

and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Packout all trash, leftover food and litter.

◗ Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water,camp and trails. Cover and disguise thecathole when finished.

◗ Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.

◗ To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water

200 feet away from streams or lakes and usesmall amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatterstrained dishwater.

LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND◗ Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch,

cultural or historic structures and artifacts.◗ Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects

as you find them.◗ Avoid introducing or transporting non-native

species.◗ Do not build structures, furniture or dig

trenches.

MINIMIZE CAMPFIRE IMPACTS◗ Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the

backcountry. Use a lightweight stove forcooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.

◗ Where fires are permitted, use established firerings, fire pans or mound fires.

◗ Keep fires small. Only use sticks from theground that can be broken by hand.

◗ Burn all wood and coals to ash, put outcampfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.

RESPECT WILDLIFE◗ Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not

follow or approach them.◗ Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages

their health, alters natural behaviors andexposes them to predators and otherdangers.

◗ Protect wildlife and your food by storingrations and trash securely.

◗ Control pets at all times or leave them athome.

◗ Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating,nesting, raising young or winter.

BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHER VISITORS◗ Respect other visitors and protect the quality

of their experience.◗ Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.◗ Step to the downhill side of the trail when

encountering pack stock.◗ Take breaks and camp away from trails and

other visitors.◗ Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices

and noises.Reprinted From: www.lnt.org

LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES


s part of its Strategic Agendafor 2004-08, the AmericanCanoe Association (ACA) hasbegun a program to support the

development and promotion of water trails,thereby improving recreational paddlingopportunities. Water trails serve theimportant function of providing paddlerswith information on where to go, what toexpect when they get there, how to be safeand where to get more information.Through its program, the ACA will:

◗ Assist with the development of newtrails;

◗ Provide resources for the maintenanceof existing trails;

◗ Connect paddlers to established trails;and

◗ Celebrate the successes in water traildevelopment.

The ACA’s Water Trails Program hasaccomplished a lot since its start in July2005. To connect paddlers to trails, the ACAdeveloped a database of 400+ water trailsthroughout North America, now available onthe ACA’s website. This database gives usersinformation on the trails in their state, andtells them how to get trail maps. It will becontinually expanded and refined so thatpaddlers everywhere will be able to accessinformation on water trail paddlingopportunities.

Second, in July 2005, the ACA designatedtwelve trails as ACA-Recommended WaterTrails. ACA-Recommended trails satisfy fivebasic criteria and stand out as particulargood destinations for paddlers. The fivecriteria are:

◗ The trail is a contiguous or semi-contiguous waterway or series ofwaterways open to recreational use bypaddlers;

◗ The trail has public access points forpaddlers;

◗ The trail is covered by a map,guide, signage or a websiteof reasonable quality anddetail that is available tothe public;

◗ Published or printedmaterials for the trail(e.g., guidebook, map,signs, website) thatcommunicate low-impact ethics to trailusers; and

◗ The trail is supportedand/or managed by oneor more organizations.

ACA-Recommended WaterTrails earn the right to use a special ACAlogo in maps, signs and other printedmaterial related to the trail. Visit the ACAwebsite for a listing of the ACA-Recommended Water Trails. The ACA willexpand this list by designating new trailseach year.

Finally, the ACA has recognized theorganizations responsible for thedevelopment of the 2005 ACA-Recommended trails as Champions ofWater Trails. These organizations receiveassistance in promoting their trails throughlocal media outlets, and also earn the rightto display a special ACA logo recognizingtheir status as a Water Trails Champion.The ACA congratulates these organizationsfor their success in providing safe, enjoyableaccess to our nation’s waters, and for theircommitment to sound stewardship of ournatural environment.

by Paul Sanford

Director of Stewardshipand Public Policy

American Canoe Society

www.americancanoe.org

Making the World a Better Place to Paddle

The ACA’s Water Trails Program

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ater trails provide valuableservices for all paddlers—water access, opportunity foroutdoor recreation, creating

education opportunities, helping the localeconomy and enhancing the quality of life.Unfortunately, as with all aspects of life,there are both rewards and risks that canthreaten the survival of the trail. Risksinclude the possibility of someone gettinghurt while paddling or working on the trail,paddlers damaging private or publicproperty, misunderstood contractualobligations and the challenges offundraising, partnerships and collaborationswith other entities. The good news is thatwater trails’ risks are manageable enhancingthe positive experience of water trails.

CollaborationsWater trails’ organizers partner and workwith many diverse groups, such asnegotiating use rights for public and privateland, developing maps and trail guide,maintaining the trail and funding theoperation. The main risk of collaborationsis disagreement among the parties on theduties, rights, responsibilities and recoursesof each party. The disagreement can lead toallegations of breach of contract, as well as,having an unexpected and uninsured loss.Proper planningand gooddocumentation ofthe agreementbetween the partiesshould be yourgoal. Here are sometips for negotiatingyour collaborative agreements.

Program Guidelines

Develop guidelines for evaluating oranalyzing prospective partners, including:

◆ Identify any unacceptable types ofprograms or partners.

◆ Identify the person(s) responsible fornegotiating with potential partners.

◆ Determine who must approve anyproposal or project.

Project Planning

◆ What are your expectations? Theirexpectations?

◆ Who is responsible for overseeingeach project?

◆ What are the start and end dates ofthe project or collaboration?

◆ When and where will the project oractivities occur?

◆ How can the agreement be modified,terminated or extended?

◆ Which organization is responsible for:

◆ Training participants

◆ Providing any tools and/ormaterials

◆ Supervising the activity or project(create a written supervisionagreement or plan if needed)

◆ Transportation (if needed)

◆ What kinds of recordswill each party need?

◆ How will the partieswork together to enforcerules, boundaries and/or

limitations?

◆ What are your and their emergencyplans, including emergency medicalcare?

◆ Are there crisis management plans?

◆ How are incidents or accidentsreported?

by Leslie White

Croydon Consulting

http://croydonconsult.com

Just to be Safe

Water Trails Risk Management

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Insurance and Releases

◆ Who is responsible for purchasinginsurance?

◆ What are the insurance requirements of therespective parties?

◆ Are there any hold harmless and/orindemnification agreements between theparties?

◆ Are waivers, releases or informed consents required? Whowill develop the form and maintain the records?

Project Evaluation

◆ How and when will you evaluate the project or program?

◆ How do you define success?

◆ Did the project or partnership meet your expectations? Theirs?

◆ What would you do differently?

◆ How could you improve the processor project?

◆ Were there any significantproblems, successes?

◆ Did the project or partnershipfurther your organization’s goals andmission?

◆ Should the project or partnership becontinued or terminated?

These are just some of the issues your organization should consider when beginning orrevising a collaboration agreement. Discussing all of the difficult issues in the beginning willavoid problems later in the project, especially if an accident or injury occurs. Thecollaboration does not require a contract, but a memorandum of understanding is anexcellent framework for documenting everyone’s expectations.

Leslie T. White, CPCU, CIC, ARM, CRM. Founder and president of Croydon Consulting, LLC, Leslie T.White brings more than 30 years’ experience within the insurance and risk management industry to thetable. For the last 10 years, she has chosen to specialize in serving nonprofits as an insurance and riskmanagement consultant. Email: [email protected]


The Susquehanna River Trail

Adventures in Water Trail DevelopmentCASE STUDY

t was those damn islands. Iaffectionately blame them. Thoselush, low-lying lands bejewelingthe wide river by the hundreds

tickled my imagination aided by reflectionsof the Maine Island Trail I had learnedabout a few years earlier. That 325-milecoastal water trail connects rocky islandsclad in spruce. The 444-mile longSusquehanna River, mother river to theChesapeake Bay, constructed silty islandscanopied by river birch and silver maple -beckoning respites for paddlers, Huck Finncampsites eastern style.

The islands and the glorious river, cleanerthan it had been for decades, inspired me tocollaborate with other river enthusiasts toconceive a water trail. In June of 1998,

sixteen months later, we cut the ribbon.Working for the Alliance for the ChesapeakeBay, I was paid to father the trail-buildingprocess with the fortification of grantfunding and a family of planning teammembers. The 24-mile trail terminating inHarrisburg consisted of 10 islands, propertyof the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, eachwith a designated camping area. Add ahandy map and guide and “trailhead”signage at a few access points and the firstformal water trail in Pennsylvania had beenborn, but the parents were ill prepared.

Caring for a water trail, especially one withcampsites in need of routine maintenance,isn’t for the timid. A sound organizationwith clear policies, dedicated volunteers, andample resources is required. Themanagement question hadn’t been answered.We were heading downstream without apaddle.

Rivers bring out an unquenchable can-dospirit in the people they touch so withinmonths by-laws were being drafted and thegroundwork laid for the Susquehanna RiverTrail Association (SRTA). Just as during thegestation period for the trail itself, thisorganization’s building period, call it thepreschool years, was aided by several stateand local partners—agencies, businesse, andnonprofits—who accelerated and leveragedour efforts. Like obstetricians, they werethere for the delivery and then they becamethe pediatricians, helping us grow eventhough occasionally we questioned theadvice or the prescription.

The elementary years followed, marked by a27-mile expansion of the trail north toSunbury. Ten new islands were added and acomprehensive new waterproof map andguide was created for the entire 51-milecorridor. The SRTA matured, quietly andunceremoniously, like bourbon in a barrel.The potential was exquisite.

by Brook Lenker

Susquehanna River Trail Association

www.susquehannarivertrail.org

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The Susquehanna River Trail tremored theimaginations of others in Pennsylvania andsurrounding states starting a ripple that roseto a regional water trail wave. Today, twoNational Park Service programs—theChesapeake Bay Gateways Network and theRivers and Trails Conservation AssistanceProgram—provide support for water trailefforts throughout the 64,000 square-mileChesapeake Bay watershed in partnershipwith the Pennsylvania Department ofConservation and Natural Resources,Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission,and the Pennsylvania EnvironmentalCouncil, which work together to coordinatea statewide water trail program.

The Susquehanna Water Trail has grown toan interconnected system of locally managedtrails covering nearly every reach of theriver. While the other trails haven’t yetpursued the SRTA’s island campsite model,informative trail guides and signage unifythe segments encouraging river exploration

for all. In 2005, the American CanoeAssociation recognized the collectiveSusquehanna Water Trail as one itsnationally recommended water trails.

We revel in our accomplishments butknow much work remains. The SRTA is

still in school, a secondary student at NGOJunior High struggling in organizationalpuberty, striving to improve at memberrecruitment, fundraising and the efficiencyof its maintenance duties. With continueddedication, time and creativity, graduationday is on the horizon. The barrel can beopened.

To others on this watery trail, I share thisparting wisdom: be promiscuous andproactive in your water trail thinking;accept medicine judiciously andappreciatively; stay in school and learnaggressively; and, eventually, drink in theshared blame for the wonderful things thathave happened.

Brook Lenker is the co-founder of theSusquehanna River Trail and a past President ofNorth American Water Trails, Inc. He lives inCamp Hill, Pennsylvania and serves as theDirector of Community Relations for thePennsylvania Department of Conservation andNatural Resources.

provides design guidance for developingcanoe and kayak launches; case examples,designs and photos are included.www.nps.gov/ncrc/programs/rtca/helpfultools/ht_launch_guide.html

Case Studies of Water Trail Impacts onRural Communities by Lindsy Johnson.This paper examines the economic benefitsand social impacts of water trails in ruralcommunities. It includes a literature review,several case studies from across the countryand recommendations for rural economicdevelopment. This paper was completed withthe help of RTCA staff input.www.nps.gov/ncrc/programs/rtca/helpfultools/wtimpacts.pdf

Survey of Sea Kayak Owners inMinnesota: Kayaking the North Shore ofLake Superior. In an effort to understandthe demographics, needs and user patternsof sea kayakers along the North Shore ofLake Superior, Minnesota Department ofNatural Resources surveyed a sample ofMinnesota’s registered sea kayak owners.www.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/reports/kayaking_study.html

Use and Economic Importance of theChattooga River by Roger Moore and ChrisSiderelis, North Carolina State University.This report presents the results of acomprehensive study of the 57 miles of theWild and Scenic Chattooga River, flowingthrough northwestern South Carolina,northeastern Georgia and southwesternNorth Carolina. www.ncrc.nps.gov/portals/rivers/projpg/chatt.pdf

STATE SPECIFIC ONLINE TOOLSHow to build a paddle trail in yourcommunity. North Carolina’s TourismExtension has partnered with the NC DENRState Trails program to develop avideoconference series on building paddletrails in North Carolina, along with the NCPaddle Trails Association. Online atwww4.ncsu.edu/~cskline/index.htm.

Pennsylvania’s water trail website. This website, developed by Pennsylvania Fish andBoat Commission, is an excellent source ofinformation on boating safety and Leave No


ORGANIZATIONSAmerica’s Watertrails is a forward-thinkingcommunications and support project topromote and publicize the development ofwater trails throughout the Americas.www.americaswatertrails.org

American Trails is the only national,nonprofit organization working on behalf ofall trail interests—including water trails. Theysupport local, regional and long-distancetrails and greenways, whether they be inbackcountry, rural or urban areas. Their goalis to support America’s trails by findingcommon ground and promoting cooperationamong all trail interests. www.americantrails.org/resources/trailbuilding/index.html

The National Park Service’s Rivers Trails andConservation Assistance Program is thecommunity assistance arm of the NationalPark Service. NPS RTCA staff providetechnical assistance to community groups andlocal, state and federal government agencies,so they can conserve rivers, preserve openspace and develop trails and greenways. RTCAhas been working to develop partnerships forwater trails for the past 13 years.www.nps.gov/rtca

The National Park Service has an onlinewater trails resource page. This page providesnarrative examples of water trail projects andlists several valuable online resources forwater trails. www.nps.gov/ncrc/portals/rivers/projpg/watertrails.htm

The National Park Service Rivers andTrails Program has a list of referencematerials at www.nps.gov/ncrc/programs/rtca/helpfultools/ht_publications.html

Your state park, natural resource,environmental or ecology agency is sure tohave some good references. The WashingtonDepartment of Ecology has a wide range ofguides and educational materials at www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/sea/publications.htm

TOOLS AND STUDIESLogical Lasting Launches - this guide

Resources & ReferencesTrace principles. Some of its sectionheadings include: Important Boating SafetyInformation, Know the Law - BoatingRegulations, Low Impact Use Information,Human Waste Disposal Guidelines andCanoe Camping checklist. http://sites.state.pa.us/PA_Exec/Fish_Boat/watertrails/trailindex.htm

The River Alliance of Wisconsin hasinformation on their website about watertrails, which addresses the basic what, whyand how questions, as well as, providinglinks to other water trail sites, links tofunding resources and links to technicalresources. www.wisconsinrivers.org

Your state park, natural resource,environmental or ecology agency is sure tohave some good references. TheWashington Department of Ecology has awide range of guides and educationalmaterials. www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/sea/publications.htm

Water Trails: Building A Statewide Systemis a PowerPoint presentation developed aspart of the Pennsylvania Water TrailsProgram that walks you through the ins andouts of developing a statewide water trailssystem. www.pecwest.org/WaterTrailsPresentation.pdf

Water Trail Toolbox: How to Plan, Build,and Manage a Water Trail. The ChesapeakeBay Gateways Network provides step-by-stepguidelines—the ABCs of planning, buildingand managing a water trail. Each of the threesections has a brief opening page and a listof links that examine the subjects in greaterdetail. The additional resources includesupporting background information. Onlineat www.baygateways.net/watertrailtools.cfm

For information on invasives, contact yourlocal county extension service, weed boardor download The Watershed Project’s WeedWorkers’ Handbook.www.cal-ipc.org/ww_handbook/


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Documents

The History of the Water Trail Systems What is a Water ... · Susan Schwartz Stephen Twelker Wendy Wilson Alanna Woodward ... by Jordan Sector ... creating a water trail. Many believe