Draft Interpretive Plan Join the adventure! - Captain John Smith ...

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2. The need for cohesiveness – The ultimate goal of the Trail is to provide a
continuum of quality visitor experiences that will inspire an ethic of stewardship
among Trail users. It will be important to maintain a cohesive story, a high
standard of quality visitor experiences, and some level of Trail identity along the
3,000-mile route.
3. User conflicts – The Trail serves diverse audiences with specialized needs and
expectations. While some visitors seek solitude and connectivity with nature,
other users want adventure and excitement. It will be important to provide a
range of quality experiences along the Trail and minimize user conflicts as much
as possible when planning and implementing interpretive and recreational
opportunities.
4. A broad range of partners and providers – Trail sites and segments are
administered by a range of federal, state, county and municipal agencies, and nonprofit
groups. Numerous commercial entities provide services along the Trail.
Each partner organization and provider operates within the context of their own
organizational goals and policies, as well as with those identified with the Trail.
It will be vital to properly coordinate the differing policies in order to provide
seamless visitor experiences along the Trail. A variety of personnel manage Trail
sites and segments; some locations have professional staff, while others are run
solely by volunteers. Staff training and networking will be essential elements of
the Trail interpretive program.
5. Protection of archeological resources and Native American lands and sacred
sites – Numerous archeological sites and Native American lands and sacred
places are located along the Trail. It is critically important to convey to visitors
the sanctity of these sites and the associated artifacts. Relevant regulations and
policies must be noted to make visitors aware of prohibitions associated with
disturbing or collecting artifacts, and entering protected places. The Trail
provides opportunities to sensitize visitors to the methods, benefits and
importance of protecting these sites and artifacts, and respecting Native American
traditions.
6. Protection of wildlife and sensitive habitats – Threatened and endangered plant
and animal species and sensitive habitats are found along the Trail. It is critically
important to make visitors aware of the fragility of some species and habitats.
Relevant regulations and policies must be noted to alert visitors to prohibitions
associated with interacting with wildlife and entering protected places. The Trail
provides opportunities to convey wildlife conservation messages and engage
visitors in conservation and restoration activities.
7. Private property rights – Much of the land associated with the Trail is privately
owned. It is imperative to safeguard private property and the rights of landowners
by conveying clear messages to visitors regarding land ownership and restrictions
associated with private property. The Trail provides opportunities to instill in
visitors respect for the rights of private landowners, and also opens the door for
partnerships involving landowners.
8. Leave No Trace and “going green” – The Trail is an excellent forum to
demonstrate how people can live in balance with nature and minimize their