Access digital copies of guides and regulations publications from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
Issue link: http://digital.outdoornebraska.gov/i/955314
Floating The Good Life • Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 7 Trails in the National Water Trails System must meet four criteria for designation: 1. The trail (and its access points) must be open to public use and be designed, constructed, and maintained according to best management practices (see below), in keeping with the anticipated use. Trail access points that demonstrate state-of-the- art design and management are especially encouraged to apply for national water trail designation. 2. The trail must comply with applicable land use plans and environmental laws. 3. The trail must be open for public use for at least 10 consecutive years after designation. 4. The trail designation must be supported by the public or private landowner(s) on which access points exist. Along with these criteria, a designated water trail must also incorporate the following best management practices: In order to be designated a water trail with NGPC, a community will need to meet the same criteria as a national designation aside from the 10-year guarantee and show they have sufficient community support, and operation/maintenance capacities to operate the trail. NGPC would like communities to think big and use these water trails as a way to promote our state to the rest of the nation with our beautiful natural landscapes and waterways. Nebraska has miles of beautiful rivers and streams as well as numerous lakes and reservoirs, all of which makes for excellent paddling opportunities. Now is the time to organize your stakeholders, take an inventory of your water trail assets and plan for the next great Nebraska water trail. • Recreation Opportunities: The water trail route has established public- access points that accommodate a diversity of trip lengths and provide access to a variety of opportunities for recreation and education. • Education: The water trail users are provided with opportunities to learn about the value of water resources, cultural heritage, boating skills, and outdoor ethics. • Conservation: The water trail provides opportunities for communities to develop and implement strategies that enhance and restore the health of local waterways and surrounding lands. • Community Support: Local communities provide support and advocacy for maintenance and stewardship of the water trail. • Public Information: The public is provided with accessible and understandable water trail information, including details for identifying access and trail routes; cultural, historic, and natural features; hazards, and water quality. The water trail is promoted to the community and broad national audience. • Trail Maintenance: There is a demonstrated ability to support routine and long-term maintenance investments on the water trail. Facilities are designed, constructed, and maintained by incorporating sustainability principles. • Planning: Maintain a water trail plan that describes a vision, desired future conditions, and strategies to strengthen best management practices.