Access digital copies of guides and regulations publications from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
Issue link: http://digital.outdoornebraska.gov/i/1521208
TIME TO PAUSE Do you have a solid understanding of where you are starting? Are there questions that came up in the process that still need answers? If you are feeling good with where you are, then it's time to move forward! Hiking at Chadron State Park. ASSESS WHERE YOU ARE As on any adventure, to reach your destination you must first know your starting point: the "You Are Here" indicator on the map. To begin, assess where you, your group, and community are regarding your trail project. The following questions will help guide your thinking. Use the answers to these questions to guide your next steps: • Why do you want this trail? » This will serve as your objective as you navigate the trail planning and development process. • Who already supports the new trail idea, who doesn't? Who is on your team, who isn't? • Have you, or anyone on your team, been involved in building a trail before? If yes, what went well and what did you learn? • What trails does your community currently have? » What trail user types do they serve? » What entities manage these trails? • What public land spaces exist in your community? (Parks, Road ROW, powerline easements, waterways, utility corridors, etc.) » Would you like to use any of these for your trail? • Who owns and manages the land you want to use? » What are the existing conditions, landscape, environmental and cultural resources? » Engage the land manager early on; set the stage for a good relationship. • What existing planning documents does your community have? Are trails or recreation included? » At the community level, look for and ask about Comprehensive plans, Park or Recreation plans, Transportation plans, Trail, or Trail System plans. » For Federal or State lands look for Forest plans, Resource Management plans, or Master Plans. » Are there opportunities for your trail project to be incorporated into long-range plans? • Assess legislative support for trails, call your local representative and discuss the topic generally to get a sense of not only their personal feelings but a broader sense of the state legislature. 9