The Grand River is the first State Designated Water Trail

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) is planning to name the Grand River as the first State Designated Water Trail. 
 
The Middle Grand River Organization of Watersheds, the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds, the Upper Grand River Watershed Alliance, and several local governments and parks agencies in the Grand River Watershed have been meeting with MDNR to help determine the criteria for designation and other aspects of the program.  Much work still needs to be done to fully describe the program and the designation criteria. 
 
Over the years, a variety of governmental and non-governmental organizations have identified and developed numerous water trails on rivers, lakes, and other waterways throughout the United States.  This is a popular and growing trend, embraced by recreational, conservation, and economic interests. 
 
Water trails are recreational routes on waterways with a network of public access points supported by broad-based community partnerships.  Water trails provide recreational, conservation, and educational opportunities, and can promote economic development.  Water trails can be a central part of community place-making strategies. 
 
Michigan Designated Water Trails will be a distinctive network of exemplary water trails that are cooperatively supported and sustained.  More specifically, the Water Trails will be established to  
This program will uniquely connect the state’s waterways and strengthen the conservation and restoration efforts along these waterways through the mutual support and cooperation of federal, state, local, and nonprofit entities.  Water trails will become a catalyst for protecting and restoring the health of local waterways and surrounding lands. 

By Fred Cowles
Vice President
Middle Grand River Organization of Watersheds