September 17, 2024
Assertion in Assist of Appalachian Path Centennial Act (H.R. 9159)
Chairman Tiffany, Rating Member Neguse, and Members of the Committee:
On behalf of American Mountain climbing Society and the 59 million sturdy mountain climbing group who benefit from the trails and inexperienced areas throughout public lands and contribute to the out of doors recreation financial system, we write in help of the committee’s consideration of and additional enhancements to the Appalachian Path Centennial Act (ATCA), H.R. 9159, which is able to help hikers, the Nationwide Trails System, and public lands.
With the Appalachian Path celebrating its one hundredth Anniversary in 2025, now could be the time to advance the event of Nationwide Scenic and Historic Trails (NSHTs) by clarifying present coverage, recognizing “Designated Operational Companions,” and offering experience-based steering on the best way to additional advance the Nationwide Trails System. ATCA will probably be a worthwhile device for strengthening cooperative administration, additional securing the roles of volunteers and volunteer organizations who’ve leveraged minimal federal funding to contribute over $835M to help the Nationwide Trails System during the last three a long time.
ATCA will present invaluable data on visitation and financial information for the Nationwide Trails System and establish methods to additional develop the system to display its worth as a part of the out of doors recreation financial system. The easiest way Congress can honor the 100-year legacy of the Appalachian Nationwide Scenic Path is by strengthening what has made the path profitable for the previous century and search to duplicate this help for all Nationwide Scenic and Historic Trails.
Essential to the mountain climbing group, a well-managed Appalachian Nationwide Scenic Path supported by an array of federal, state, native and nonprofit companions and utilizing the very best accessible information will guarantee a continued world-class recreation expertise for the roughly three million guests every year. It will probably additionally improve the expertise of hikers who might have extra choices to benefit from the Path in suitable methods, resembling various tenting websites and improved entry.
We thank the subcommittee for holding this vital listening to and urge consideration by the complete committee and on the home flooring. We encourage the committee to work with all nonprofit path companions of the Nationwide Trails System to additional strengthen this vital piece of laws.
Sincerely,
Tyler Ray
Senior Director for Packages and Advocacy
American Mountain climbing Society
This article provides a thorough overview of the importance of the Appalachian Path Centennial Act. It’s good to see support for outdoor recreation and preservation efforts.
The points made about volunteer contributions are significant. It really highlights how much community support plays a role in maintaining our trails.
I appreciate the focus on improving access for hikers. More options for camping and exploring can only enhance the outdoor experience.
It’s great to see legislation aimed at protecting such an iconic trail. Hopefully, this act will encourage more people to enjoy and respect our natural spaces.
The mention of data collection for visitation is interesting. Having solid information can help guide future enhancements and ensure sustainability in trail management.