OutdoorNebraska

CANOEING AND KAYAKING ON LOGAN CREEK Floating The Good Life • Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 53 S P E C I A L E V E N T S It is very important that a number of events be held on the water trail every year. These events help keep the water trail in the public's mind and show locals that the trail is appreciated and regularly used. These events can range from canoe and kayak races, paddling trips, or water festivals. The business these events can draw to towns along the water trail can help garner public support. There are many places to list details of your special events on your water trail in print form and online. Utilize these as much as possible. S O C I A L M E D I A This type of marketing has become a popular and effective tool for water trails. A Facebook page can replace the need for a website. A Facebook page allows you to interact with water trail users more effectively and post important updates, such as current water levels, flow speeds, closures, events, and meetings. Water trail users can post photos and share their experience with their friends, further spreading the word about the water trail. Maintaining a Facebook page can be time intensive, but, with a little work, you have an inexpensive marketing tool to reach the masses. Utilize other forms of social media, as well, such as Instagram, Twitter, and Vine among others, and publish content regularly. There is no magic formula to successful social media marketing, just try to be creative with your content and be interactive with your audience. P R I N T Brochures still can be an effective tool for marketing a water trail if they are done right. It is worth investing the time and money creating an informative yet creative brochure design for your water trail. If funding is needed for brochures, try seeking grant funding from the Nebraska Tourism Commission or your local Visitors Bureau. Be sure to keep the water trail listing in the local and state travel guides updated and provide good hi-resolution pictures they can use if a photo is needed. Here are some items to include in a water trail guide: • Distance and average travel time between points of interest • Points of interest • Put-ins and take-outs • Hazards • Map, including points of interest • Description of the wildlife and foliage along trail • Area history • Safety tips • Reminder to respect private property • Annual events

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