NJ Pine Barrens Maritime-Culture-Landscape 1 1 2024

National Water Trails, Fusion for a Healthy Community
The National Water Trails System is a network of waterways that increase public access to water-based outdoor recreation, encourage community
involvement in clean waterways and conservation and promote tourism to these places. The rivers and other waterway trails designated National
Water Trails become the newest addition to the class of national recreational trails under the National Trails System Act of 1968.
Chattahoochee River in Georgia is the first National Water Trail. Sec of Interior Kenneth Salazar said. “Is a wonderful example of what we can do
with our rivers when a community embraces them, and looks to them for all of the benefits that brings to conservation, as well as the economics of
the local community and the health of the community.” Water Trails increase access to water-based outdoor recreation, encourage community
stewardship of local waterways, and promote tourism that fuels local economies across America. National Water Trails spotlight communitydriven
conservation and stewardship.
“Rivers, lakes, and other waterways are the lifeblood of our communities, connecting us to our environment, our culture, our economy, and our
way of life,” Salazar. National Water Trail designation brings signage, technical assistance and resources is provided to build on and promote the
development of quality water trails. Water trails become catalysts for restoring the health of local waterways throughout the community. National
Water Trails may be designated by the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture.
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