Why is New England National Scenic Trail designation important, and what specific changes will result?
National Scenic Trail designation provides the following benefits: • Opportunity for administrative and financial support, which will be dependent on federal appropriations and could include: • Federal funds to buy land from willing sellers to permanently protect public access. The NPS will not own land along the Trail, but instead will partner with local public and non-profit organizations for the Trail’s protection and management. • Part-time staff to provide technical assistance in managing the Trail and maintaining regular communications among stakeholders, including website maintenance and meeting coordination, and to provide public information on the Trail. • Resources for completion of the final route in Massachusetts and Connecticut. • Formation of a Stewardship Council to implement Blueprint for Management • The formalized Stewardship Council, including representation from landowners, would prioritize next steps in implementing the Blueprint for Management. Local organizations
