Alabama
State Trail Plan Summary
2008
Little River Canyon
Acknowledgements
The preparation of the Alabama Trail Plan, 2008 was financed in part through a planning grant from the National Park Service, United States Department of the Interior, under the provisions of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (Public Law 88-578, as amended).
Sincere appreciation is extended to those persons who attended the public involvement meetings and workshop that were conducted in conjunction with the preparation of the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012 and the Alabama Trail Plan and to those persons who were unable to attend but provided comments and suggestions. These plans are a reflection of your assistance, feedback and comments. The State of Alabama is a richer place because of your commitment to the ongoing improvement of outdoor recreation and trail opportunities.
For additional copies or information, contact:
Mr. Rob Grant
Recreation Programs Director
Alabama Department of
Economic and Community Affairs
401 Adams Avenue P.O. Box 5690
Montgomery, Alabama 36103-5690 334-242-5483
rob.grant@adeca.alabama.gov
SCORP Survey and Analysis by
Dr. Mac Holmes
Center
for Business and
Economic Services
Troy University
102 Bibb Graves Hall Troy, Alabama 36082 334-670-3525
SCORP Document Prepared by
Tracy P. Delaney
South Central Alabama Development Commission
5900 Carmichael Place
Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334-244-6903
A Message From
Governor Riley
Alabama Recreational Trails
Advisory Board
Motorized Trails: Mr. Glenn Myers Munford, Alabama Mr. Robert Fuller Huntsville, Alabama Equestrian Trails: Mr. Bobby Whaley Alabaster, Alabama Mr. Patrick A. Denney Birmingham, Alabama Special Populations: Mr. Jerry Bynum Jackson’s Gap, AlabamaPedestrian and Hiking Trails:
Mr. James K. Lanier Eclectic, Alabama
Mr. William M. (Bill) Matthews Killen, Alabama Urban Trails: Mr. Tom Maxwell Homewood, Alabama Ms. Debbie Quinn Fairhope, Alabama Bicycling: Mr. Bill St. John Cullman, Alabama Mr. Richard Martin Elkmont, Alabama
Gateway at Monte Sano State Park Photo by Tracy Delaney
The Alabama Trail Vision:
Establish a well-defined and accessible
statewide trail infrastructure
through an interconnecting system
that provides a variety of safe
and unique trail opportunities;
creating quality educational and
interpretive experiences
that result in increased use,
sustainable development
and additional tourism.
Connectivity
Sustainability
and
Maintenance
Distribution
Of Information
Conservation
and Promotion
of Resources
Trail
Partnerships and
Collaboration
Increase
Accessibility
Alabama Trail System Goals and Strategies:
Work with trail organizations to develop framework for a proposed trail system infrastructure.
Promote interconnection of trails whenever possible. Promote development of trails near population centers. Pursue development of side trails that connect rural areas to urban areas.
Utilize best management practices in trail construction and maintenance to ensure trail longevity and minimal impact on surroundings.
Conduct training workshop on sustainable construction methods and practices.
Investigate feasibility of statewide standards for trail
development to be considered part of Alabama Trail System.
Develop an online statewide database of all trails in Alabama. Prepare a distribution brochure to inform public of existing and proposed trails.
Build a “one-stop” shop for trail information in Alabama. Work with trail organizations to circulate information.
Work with conservation organizations to utilize trails as a means to protect natural resources.
Properly utilize wetlands and floodplains for trail development to protect them from development.
Promote the beauty of unique trails to mark their special place in Alabama’s landscape.
Foster partnerships through regular convening of various
trail user groups.
Investigate resources for all organizations to determine
how funds can be leveraged to everyone’s benefit.
Establish common ground among trail stakeholder
groups to begin collaboration process.
Pursue accessibility within connectivity concept to
promote trail use at all levels and abilities.
Investigate, through design and construction, innovative
and cost-efficient means of making trails more
The Alabama Trail Plan
Trails are an integral part of our history. From animal paths through the woods to the exploration of our country to planned and designed long-distance recreational treks, trails have moved us from Point A to Point B for any number of reasons. As old as the trail concept may be, each new trail brings an excitement that comes with a first discovery. In the last 25 years, Alabamians have embraced the resurgence of the recreational trail movement that has swept the United States following the creation of the National Trails System by Congress in 1968.
This year, Alabama celebrated a new addition to the National Trails System – the Alabama Scenic River Trail. On June 4, 2008, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne designated the Alabama Scenic River Trail, along with 23 other trails, as a National Recreational Trail (NRT). The NRT designation officially recognized the Alabama Scenic River Trail as the longest one-state river trail in the nation. Secretary Kempthorne stated, “The National Trails System, including these additions, provides an excellent link to the outdoors, particularly for children. National Trails
exemplify partnerships and are providing a path to fitness and stewardship for Americans of all ages.” Secretary Kemp’s words echo the feelings of trail enthusiasts across Alabama. A renewed connection to the outdoors, fitness, environmental stewardship and trail partnerships are all part of the Alabama Trail System Concept. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is producing the Alabama Trail Plan to guide the development, expansion, and connection of recreational trails in the state.
The Alabama Trail Plan has been prepared as a companion document to the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012 and thereby has been prepared according with the guidelines set forth in the Land and Water Conservation Fund State Assistance Program Federal Financial Assistance Manual, Volume 69
(effective October 1, 2008), Chapter 2: Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan and Open Project Selection Process. The public involvement process for the Alabama Trail Plan and the Alabama SCORP were conducted simultaneously using four methods to obtain public participation the planning process: coordination with related agencies and organizations, an extensive telephone survey, public meetings, and websites.
The Alabama Trail Plan includes six separate components, organized as chapters:
trail definitions, a trail inventory, trail demand and resources, trail benefits, identification of trail issues and barriers to use, and the trail strategy. The trail definitions chapter discusses the differences between recreational trails and other types of trails, what characteristics constitute a recreational trail, and categorizes trails by use into categories for trail planning purposes. The inventory is an initial compilation of existing recreational trails in Alabama. A chapter on trail demand and resources is included to insure that future trails meet the needs of Alabama citizens. Discussion of trail benefits provides information that may encourage more active participation in recreational trail use and development by various groups, while the discussion of trail issues and barriers is designed to determine how barriers can be minimized or eliminated to make trails more accessible to use by all population groups.
The planning boundary areas of Alabama’s 12 Regional Planning Commissions (RPCs) were used for the analysis and evaluation of demographic, physical characteristics, trail inventory information, and demand and need data. These regional areas segment the state into smaller, more manageable planning units.
Defining Trails
So what makes a trail a trail? Trail, path, track, route, trek, trace. These all are words that refer to a trail, but what exactly is a trail? For some, a trail has to have a destination, or a Point A and a Point B. In other words, to be a trail it has to go somewhere. For others, a short loop around a park constitutes a trail. And, for still others, a trail can be a waterway. When someone says the word trail, many different pictures come to mind. Most all of them will be correct. It may simply be a matter of how an individual is going to use a trail that defines what a trail actually is. A general definition of a “trail” that was developed for the purposes of the Alabama Trail Plan and agreed upon by
stakeholders in public meetings is, as follows:
A designated land corridor or body of water that provides recreational, aesthetic, alternate transportation or educational opportunities to both motorized and non-motorized users, for all ages and abilities.
The Alabama Trail Plan defines and discusses different types of trails based their use, their similarities and their differences. Ten trail definitions have been included based primarily on how a trail is traveled. The first trail category is to help define the distance or segmented trails that cross Alabama. The remaining nine use categories include: multi-use trails, walking trails, hiking trails, bicycle trails, mountain biking trails, all terrain vehicle / off-road vehicle (OHV/ATV) trails, water trails, equestrian trails, and interpretive trails.
Trail Type Definition
Distance and Segmented Trails
any type that is of considerable length, usually more than 25 miles, and passing through multiple jurisdictional areas; Segmented trails may be a group of short trails or sites that form a distance trail by virtue of their connectivity through use or theme.
ATV / OHV Trails
usually either a dedicated or multi-use unpaved trail and is typically eight to ten miles long. ATV trails, like other trails, can be developed as regional or distance trails stretching a 100 miles or more and crossing several jurisdictions. An ATV (all-terrain vehicle) is a small four-wheeled vehicle equipped with low-pressure balloon tires and intended only for off-highway use. An OHV (off-highway vehicle) is any motorized vehicle used for travel in areas normally considered inaccessible to conventional highway vehicles. OHVs may include dirt motorcycles, dune buggies, jeeps, 4-wheel drive vehicles.
Bicycle Trail
any corridor that is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or barrier. A bike trail is usually within the highway right-of-way or within an independent right-of-way. A bicycle trail is usually paved, but may be unpaved as well.
Equestrian Trail a single dedicated use trail or a multi-use trail constructed of a stable unpaved surface for use by horses
Hiking Trail moderate to long distance trail with the primary function of providing long-distance
walking experiences (usually two miles or more).
Interpretive Trails
a short to moderate length trail (1/2 to 1 mile) with a primary function of providing an opportunity to walk or paddle and study interesting or unusual plants or natural features at user's pleasure.
Mountain Bike Trails
corridor that is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or barrier and is usually unpaved, and often rocky, with various challenges in terms of hill, jumps and climbs.
Multi-Use Trails trail corridors that are physically separated from vehicular traffic and can be accessed by multiple users, such as cyclists, walkers, runners, wheelchairs, rollerbladers, etc. Walking Trail A separated path used for walking
Water Trails
A recreational waterway on lake, river, or ocean between specific points usually within 15 miles of one another, containing access points and day use and/or camping sites for the nonmotorized boating public.
Trail Inventory
In taking advantage of the opportunities at hand, Alabamians have already constructed more than 1,400 miles of trails throughout the state. The great majority of these trails are local, ranging from one-half mile to 20 miles for longer treks. Some, however, are much longer and cross several jurisdictional boundaries. Many are located within Alabama’s national and state forests, national preserves and refuges, and in state parks. Still others are located on land owned and/or managed by local units of government, nonprofit organizations, land trusts, utility companies, and private
companies and individuals. It is expected that there are many more trails in Alabama that have not yet been included in the current inventory. The inventory categorized trails into one of nine types of trails: multi-use trails, walking trails, hiking trails, bicycle trails, mountain biking trails, all terrain vehicle / off-road vehicle (OHV/ATV) trails, water trails, equestrian trails, and interpretive trails. Information that was collected, as much as possible, included the following: trail name, location, address and directions, longitude and latitude, state planning region, tourism region, trail type, length, level of difficulty, surface material, owner and contact information, accessibility information,
restrictions, other facilities present, hours, and any applicable fees.
To date, 406 trails have been inventoried, representing just under 1,419 trail miles across the state. It is estimated that the inventory includes between 50 percent and 75 percent of the existing recreational trails in Alabama. Two major components that are still missing include walking / fitness trails and trails funded with Transportation Enhancement funds. It is expected that a large number of walking/fitness trails that have been constructed in conjunction with park development are not yet included on the inventory. Walking trails that have been funded with RTP funds, however, are included. Many trails that have been developed with Transportation Enhancement funds are
transportation-oriented, such as sidewalks, rather than recreation. A thorough inventory of these trails will require a case by case survey to determine the nature of the trail.
Alabama Trail Inventory Summary by Region
Region Name # of Counties # of Trails Miles of Trails Avg. Length 1 Northwest Alabama Council
of Local Governments 5 37 174.21 4.71
2 West Alabama Regional Commission 7 23 52.19 2.27
3 Regional Planning Commission
of Greater Birmingham 6 67 171.92 2.57
4 East Alabama Regional Planning
and Development Commission 10 49 287.96 5.88
5 South Central Alabama
Development Commission 6 12 93.6 7.80
6 Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission 10 29 29.51 1.02
7 Southeast Alabama Regional Planning
and Development Commission 7 37 100.75 2.72
8 South Alabama Regional Planning Commission 3 44 207.68 4.72 9 Central Alabama Regional Planning
and Development Commission 3 8 11.35 1.42
10 Lee-Russell Council of Governments 2 11 19.19 1.74
11 North-central Alabama Regional
Council of Governments 3 19 52.55 2.77
12 Top of Alabama Regional
Council of Governments 5 70 218.03 3.11
Trail Demand
The demand and pursuit of more and varying trails in Alabama is steadily increasing. Not only do survey results show more and more people participating in trail activities, but they are participating more frequently. In joint public meetings conducted during the preparation of the Alabama Trail Plan and the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, stakeholders were asked to identify both outdoor recreation and trail needs. Not surprisingly, many of the outdoor recreation needs were related to trail development. With so many Alabamians utilizing trails that have been constructed during the last 25 years, a large number of support organizations have formed and partnerships have developed at the grassroots level. These past coordination and collaboration efforts are a step in the right direction for Alabama’s future trails. Still, many of those organizations are continually looking for both planning and technical guidance and, even more, looking for funding.
The rate of participation in both trail-related and outdoor recreation varies from one region of the state to another and in comparison to the statewide participation rates. Walking for pleasure was the activity in which the highest percent of the population participated in all but one region. In Region 8, freshwater beach activities has the highest percentage of the population participating. The percentage of the population that participates in walking for pleasure is highest in Region 1: Northwest Alabama and lowest in Region 11: North-central Alabama. There does not appear to be a geographical reason for this discrepancy since both regions are located across the northern part of the State.
Five other trail-related activities were in the top ten in at least one of the regions in terms of the percentage of population participating. These activities are, in addition to walking for pleasure, visiting historical sites, camping at developed sites, trail hiking, ATV trail use, and driving for pleasure. Visiting historical sites is the number two activity in Region 11 and the number three activity in three regions (Region 1, Region 3 and Region 12).
Percentage of Population Participating in Trail-Related Recreation Activities Regions In Comparison To State
Key #1 Activity #2 Activity #3 Activity # 4 to #10 Activities REGION
Activity STATE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Walking for pleasure 65.3 72.2 64.2 72.0 67.1 56.7 70.8 63.8 63.2 65.2 71.6 55.7 59.5 Visit historical sites 41.6 50.0 46.6 51.0 42.0 25.0 16.3 39.4 43.4 37.5 42.0 54.2 42.7 Camping- dev. sites 20.1 19.3 13.5 19.8 24.7 9.6 18.0 26.2 27.4 18.4 26.3 20.1 14.5 Trail hiking 15.8 10.3 8.6 18.1 15.2 12.6 13.2 17.9 17.1 16.5 25.4 17.3 17.8 ATV trail 14.4 14.9 18.6 12.4 19.6 16.2 23.6 15.3 13.4 9.2 16.7 10.7 9.7 Jogging 14.4 8.2 11.1 13.9 11.7 11.1 19.4 16.8 19.4 17.3 20.0 4.0 14.7 Driving for pleasure 12.8 8.9 7.3 11.9 13.3 19.9 19.5 14.4 13.8 18.9 13.1 6.3 6.8 Canoeing / rafting 9.1 5.9 5.1 7.3 11.2 9.7 8.0 9.7 18.2 10.3 11.9 10.1 5.2 Bird watching 8.4 6.4 7.7 7.8 6.7 14.8 9.4 11.6 9.0 10.1 10.1 3.7 2.7 Nature photography 5.8 2.0 3.0 3.1 8.2 5.6 5.9 9.4 7.5 10.1 7.5 3.9 3.6 Roller skating outdoors 5.1 1.7 1.8 7.0 5.8 3.8 3.7 5.3 7.4 3.4 10.4 4.0 5.8 Horse trail riding 4.8 4.5 6.7 3.2 6.6 6.3 4.1 7.3 3.5 4.6 7.2 3.5 4.6 Camping primitive sites 3.2 2.8 0.4 2.6 6.0 4.4 1.0 4.3 4.7 2.5 6.7 1.6 2.2 Mountain bike trail 2.8 0.8 3.3 4.9 0.9 0.2 2.0 2.2 3.2 3.8 5.3 1.4 2.4 Bicycling on roads 2.7 2.7 7.2 1.3 0.7 2.2 2.3 5.4 1.0 3.0 4.7 1.3 3.0 Other horse riding 2.3 0.4 0.7 0.5 1.9 4.2 5.1 2.6 4.6 3.4 4.6 1.3 0.5 Motorcycle trail 2.2 2.2 1.1 3.2 2.1 2.4 2.0 2.8 1.5 2.9 2.6 3.2 0.6 Truck trail 1.7 2.5 0.3 1.1 0.5 4.5 0.7 4.8 0.0 2.4 2.0 1.2 2.1
The frequency with which Alabama residents participated in trail-related activities presents an even higher level of demand than citizen participation rates. The survey shows that of the 65.3 percent of the population that participated in walking for pleasure, the average number of occasions in which they participated in the activity was 106.1 times per year. Likewise, jogging, which has a 14.4 percent participation rate, has an average frequency of 74.8 times per year; and, camping at developed sites, which has a participation rate of 20.1 percent of the population, has an average frequency rate of 9.2 times per year.
Some trail-related activities that have a lower participation rate, of less than 10 percent of the population, have a relatively high average frequency rate. In other words, only a small group
participates in an activity, but that small group engages in the activity on a regular basis. Examples of this situation include motorcycle trail riding, nature photography, bird watching, horse trail riding, and mountain bike trail riding. The participation rate for these activities ranges between only 2.8 percent to 8.4 percent of the population; however, the persons who partake in these activities do so, on average, of 28.9 times per year or more, which is equivalent to at least 2.4 times per month. This example is the reason why both the participation rate and the frequency rate must be taken into account when planning for trail facilities. It is likely that some trails may actually be used more by a small group of people than other trails in which a large number of people use the facility infrequently. These factors become especially important in working out the details for shared trail facilities or multi-use trails.
The results of the Troy University SCORP survey show that are six outdoor activities in which the State population engages on average at least once a week, with a frequency rate of 52.0 or higher. Of these six activities, four are trail-related activities: walking for pleasure, jogging, driving for pleasure, and ATV trail riding. Of the 25 outdoor recreation activities in which the population participates in approximately every two weeks, with a participation rate of 26.0 or higher, 11 are trail-related activities. The trail activities that have an average annual frequency rate between 26.0 and 52.0 include motorcycle trail riding, outdoor roller skating, nature photography, bird watching, horse trail riding, hiking, and mountain bike trail riding.
It is felt that these high volumes of both participation levels and frequency of participation speak very loudly since participation in trail-related activities generally takes some degree of planning and coordination, if only because the facilities themselves are not always close by to the general
population’s everyday routine of work and home chores/requirements.
Trail Trends
The Troy University SCORP survey gave credence to the observations that there is a huge upward swing in trail use in Alabama, both in the number of people who visit and utilize trails and how often they use trails. Trail facilities ranked high in almost every category throughout the State. This is a remarkable incidence considering that the survey queried activity levels for 40 different outdoor recreation activities. Furthermore, many of the activities were much more traditional recreation activities with greater accessibility than the existing trail system in Alabama’s
communities. The upward swing in trail use was echoed by trail and outdoor recreation stakeholders at a series of public meetings. It is clear that Alabamians want more trails, will use more trails and that they want a greater variety of trails. Currently, Alabama has more than 400 individual local trails stretching some 1,400 miles across the state. That is enough trail mileage to walk from the Gulf Coast to Little River Canyon four times. That trail mileage does not include Alabama’s distance trails, which add approximately another 1,000 miles to the State’s trail inventory.
Trail Issues
Although there are overwhelming positive aspects of trails in Alabama, there are also some painful aspects that must be addressed to the satisfaction of a large percentage of the population. The following trail issues were identified and discussed by trail and outdoor recreation stakeholders. There were often variations on the issues, but the predominant issues remained as accessibility and barriers to use, coordination of and education about trail activities, funding for planning and development, construction and maintenance, and availability, capacity and competing uses.
Trail Benefits
The great appeal of trails lies in the concept of connectivity. Trails multiply the benefits of conservation areas, parks and open spaces by linking them together. They can conserve native ecosystems and landscapes by providing connections that can sustain biodiversity in plant and animal communities. Along waterways they provide natural buffers between water and development. Trails can serve as walking and bicycling routes to work, school, local businesses and restaurants, parks and recreation sites. They can be used to conserve historic and cultural resources such as archaeological and historic sites. Trails in rural areas can be used to showcase working landscapes such as farms, groves and forests. Along scenic roadways, they provide travelers with a glimpse into Alabama’s historic past. Indeed, the connections for Alabamians to their natural surroundings, to their heritage and to each other is the greatest benefit of the trail.
Following connectivity, five categories of trail benefits were identified by trail stakeholders through discussion in public meetings: education, conservation, health and safety, feeding the soul, and economics.
Atwood Linear Park Greenway, Huntsville
Courtesy of the City of Huntsville
Alabama
State Trail Plan
2008
Tuscaloosa Warrior Riverwalk
Table of Contents
Alabama Trail Plan Summary ... i
Acknowledgements
Letter from Governor Bob Riley
Alabama Recreational Trail Advisory Committee
Vision1. Introduction... 1
Recreational Trail Program
Land and Water Conservation Fund
Planning Process2. Defining Trails... 7
Distance and Segmented Trails
ATV / OHV Trails
Bicycle Trails
Equestrian Trails
Hiking Trails
Interpretive Trails
Mountain Bike Trails
Multi-Use Trails
Walking Trails
Water Trails 3. Trail Inventory ... 19
Distance Trails
Water Trails
Outdoor Recreation Segmented Trails
Inventory of Existing Trails4. Demand and Resources ... 51
Trail Demand
Trail Resources5. Trends, Benefits & Issues ... 65
Trail Trends
Trail Benefits
Trail Issues6. Alabama Trail Development Strategy... 71
The Alabama Trail VisionAlabama
State Trail Plan Summary
2008
Little River Canyon
Acknowledgements
The preparation of the Alabama Trail Plan, 2008 was financed in part through a planning grant from the National Park Service, United States Department of the Interior, under the provisions of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (Public Law 88-578, as amended).
Sincere appreciation is extended to those persons who attended the public involvement meetings and workshop that were conducted in conjunction with the preparation of the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012 and the Alabama Trail Plan and to those persons who were unable to attend but provided comments and suggestions. These plans are a reflection of your assistance, feedback and comments. The State of Alabama is a richer place because of your commitment to the ongoing improvement of outdoor recreation and trail opportunities.
For additional copies or information, contact:
Mr. Rob Grant
Recreation Programs Director
Alabama Department of
Economic and Community Affairs
401 Adams Avenue P.O. Box 5690
Montgomery, Alabama 36103-5690 334-242-5483
rob.grant@adeca.alabama.gov
SCORP Survey and Analysis by
Dr. Mac Holmes
Center
for Business and
Economic Services
Troy University
102 Bibb Graves Hall Troy, Alabama 36082 334-670-3525
SCORP Document Prepared by
Tracy P. Delaney
South Central Alabama Development Commission
5900 Carmichael Place
Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334-244-6903
A Message From
Governor Riley
Alabama Recreational Trails
Advisory Board
Motorized Trails: Mr. Glenn Myers Munford, Alabama Mr. Robert Fuller Huntsville, Alabama Equestrian Trails: Mr. Bobby Whaley Alabaster, Alabama Mr. Patrick A. Denney Birmingham, Alabama Special Populations: Mr. Jerry Bynum Jackson’s Gap, AlabamaPedestrian and Hiking Trails:
Mr. James K. Lanier Eclectic, Alabama
Mr. William M. (Bill) Matthews Killen, Alabama Urban Trails: Mr. Tom Maxwell Homewood, Alabama Ms. Debbie Quinn Fairhope, Alabama Bicycling: Mr. Bill St. John Cullman, Alabama Mr. Richard Martin Elkmont, Alabama
Gateway at Monte Sano State Park Photo by Tracy Delaney
The Alabama Trail Vision:
Establish a well-defined and accessible
statewide trail infrastructure
through an interconnecting system
that provides a variety of safe
and unique trail opportunities;
creating quality educational and
interpretive experiences
that result in increased use,
sustainable development
and additional tourism.
Connectivity
Sustainability
and
Maintenance
Distribution
Of Information
Conservation
and Promotion
of Resources
Trail
Partnerships and
Collaboration
Increase
Accessibility
Alabama Trail System Goals and Strategies
Work with trail organizations to develop framework for a proposed trail system infrastructure.
Promote interconnection of trails whenever possible. Promote development of trails near population centers. Pursue development of side trails that connect rural areas to urban areas.
Utilize best management practices in trail construction and maintenance to ensure trail longevity and minimal impact on surroundings.
Conduct training workshop on sustainable construction methods and practices.
Investigate feasibility of statewide standards for trail
development to be considered part of Alabama Trail System.
Develop an online statewide database of all trails in Alabama. Prepare a distribution brochure to inform public of existing and proposed trails.
Build a “one-stop” shop for trail information in Alabama. Work with trail organizations to circulate information.
Work with conservation organizations to utilize trails as a means to protect natural resources.
Properly utilize wetlands and floodplains for trail development to protect them from development.
Promote the beauty of unique trails to mark their special place in Alabama’s landscape.
Foster partnerships through regular convening of various
trail user groups.
Investigate resources for all organizations to determine
how funds can be leveraged to everyone’s benefit.
Establish common ground among trail stakeholder
groups to begin collaboration process.
Pursue accessibility within connectivity concept to
promote trail use at all levels and abilities.
Investigate, through design and construction, innovative
and cost-efficient means of making trails more
The Alabama Trail Plan
Trails are an integral part of our history. From animal paths through the woods to the exploration of our country to planned and designed long-distance recreational treks, trails have moved us from Point A to Point B for any number of reasons. As old as the trail concept may be, each new trail brings an excitement that comes with a first discovery. In the last 25 years, Alabamians have embraced the resurgence of the recreational trail movement that has swept the United States following the creation of the National Trails System by Congress in 1968.
This year, Alabama celebrated a new addition to the National Trails System – the Alabama Scenic River Trail. On June 4, 2008, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne designated the Alabama Scenic River Trail, along with 23 other trails, as a National Recreational Trail (NRT). The NRT designation officially recognized the Alabama Scenic River Trail as the longest one-state river trail in the nation. Secretary Kempthorne stated, “The National Trails System, including these additions, provides an excellent link to the outdoors, particularly for children. National Trails
exemplify partnerships and are providing a path to fitness and stewardship for Americans of all ages.” Secretary Kemp’s words echo the feelings of trail enthusiasts across Alabama. A renewed connection to the outdoors, fitness, environmental stewardship and trail partnerships are all part of the Alabama Trail System Concept. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is producing the Alabama Trail Plan to guide the development, expansion, and connection of recreational trails in the state.
The Alabama Trail Plan has been prepared as a companion document to the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012 and thereby has been prepared according with the guidelines set forth in the Land and Water Conservation Fund State Assistance Program Federal Financial Assistance Manual, Volume 69
(effective October 1, 2008), Chapter 2: Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan and Open Project Selection Process. The public involvement process for the Alabama Trail Plan and the Alabama SCORP were conducted simultaneously using four methods to obtain public participation the planning process: coordination with related agencies and organizations, an extensive telephone survey, public meetings, and websites.
The Alabama Trail Plan includes six separate components, organized as chapters:
trail definitions, a trail inventory, trail demand and resources, trail benefits, identification of trail issues and barriers to use, and the trail strategy. The trail definitions chapter discusses the differences between recreational trails and other types of trails, what characteristics constitute a recreational trail, and categorizes trails by use into categories for trail planning purposes. The inventory is an initial compilation of existing recreational trails in Alabama. A chapter on trail demand and resources is included to insure that future trails meet the needs of Alabama citizens. Discussion of trail benefits provides information that may encourage more active participation in recreational trail use and development by various groups, while the discussion of trail issues and barriers is designed to determine how barriers can be minimized or eliminated to make trails more accessible to use by all population groups.
The planning boundary areas of Alabama’s 12 Regional Planning Commissions (RPCs) were used for the analysis and evaluation of demographic, physical characteristics, trail inventory information, and demand and need data. These regional areas segment the state into smaller, more manageable planning units.
Defining Trails
So what makes a trail a trail? Trail, path, track, route, trek, trace. These all are words that refer to a trail, but what exactly is a trail? For some, a trail has to have a destination, or a Point A and a Point B. In other words, to be a trail it has to go somewhere. For others, a short loop around a park constitutes a trail. And, for still others, a trail can be a waterway. When someone says the word trail, many different pictures come to mind. Most all of them will be correct. It may simply be a matter of how an individual is going to use a trail that defines what a trail actually is. A general definition of a “trail” that was developed for the purposes of the Alabama Trail Plan and agreed upon by
stakeholders in public meetings is, as follows:
A designated land corridor or body of water that provides recreational, aesthetic, alternate transportation or educational opportunities to both motorized and non-motorized users, for all ages and abilities.
The Alabama Trail Plan defines and discusses different types of trails based their use, their similarities and their differences. Ten trail definitions have been included based primarily on how a trail is traveled. The first trail category is to help define the distance or segmented trails that cross Alabama. The remaining nine use categories include: multi-use trails, walking trails, hiking trails, bicycle trails, mountain biking trails, all terrain vehicle / off-road vehicle (OHV/ATV) trails, water trails, equestrian trails, and interpretive trails.
Trail Type Definition
Distance and Segmented Trails
any type that is of considerable length, usually more than 25 miles, and passing through multiple jurisdictional areas; Segmented trails may be a group of short trails or sites that form a distance trail by virtue of their connectivity through use or theme.
ATV / OHV Trails
usually either a dedicated or multi-use unpaved trail and is typically eight to ten miles long. ATV trails, like other trails, can be developed as regional or distance trails stretching a 100 miles or more and crossing several jurisdictions. An ATV (all-terrain vehicle) is a small four-wheeled vehicle equipped with low-pressure balloon tires and intended only for off-highway use. An OHV (off-highway vehicle) is any motorized vehicle used for travel in areas normally considered inaccessible to conventional highway vehicles. OHVs may include dirt motorcycles, dune buggies, jeeps, 4-wheel drive vehicles.
Bicycle Trail
any corridor that is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or barrier. A bike trail is usually within the highway right-of-way or within an independent right-of-way. A bicycle trail is usually paved, but may be unpaved as well.
Equestrian Trail a single dedicated use trail or a multi-use trail constructed of a stable unpaved surface for use by horses
Hiking Trail moderate to long distance trail with the primary function of providing long-distance
walking experiences (usually two miles or more).
Interpretive Trails
a short to moderate length trail (1/2 to 1 mile) with a primary function of providing an opportunity to walk or paddle and study interesting or unusual plants or natural features at user's pleasure.
Mountain Bike Trails
corridor that is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or barrier and is usually unpaved, and often rocky, with various challenges in terms of hill, jumps and climbs.
Multi-Use Trails trail corridors that are physically separated from vehicular traffic and can be accessed by multiple users, such as cyclists, walkers, runners, wheelchairs, rollerbladers, etc. Walking Trail A separated path used for walking
Water Trails
A recreational waterway on lake, river, or ocean between specific points usually within 15 miles of one another, containing access points and day use and/or camping sites for the nonmotorized boating public.
Trail Inventory
In taking advantage of the opportunities at hand, Alabamians have already constructed more than 1,400 miles of trails throughout the state. The great majority of these trails are local, ranging from one-half mile to 20 miles for longer treks. Some, however, are much longer and cross several jurisdictional boundaries. Many are located within Alabama’s national and state forests, national preserves and refuges, and in state parks. Still others are located on land owned and/or managed by local units of government, nonprofit organizations, land trusts, utility companies, and private
companies and individuals. It is expected that there are many more trails in Alabama that have not yet been included in the current inventory. The inventory categorized trails into one of nine types of trails: multi-use trails, walking trails, hiking trails, bicycle trails, mountain biking trails, all terrain vehicle / off-road vehicle (OHV/ATV) trails, water trails, equestrian trails, and interpretive trails. Information that was collected, as much as possible, included the following: trail name, location, address and directions, longitude and latitude, state planning region, tourism region, trail type, length, level of difficulty, surface material, owner and contact information, accessibility information,
restrictions, other facilities present, hours, and any applicable fees.
To date, 406 trails have been inventoried, representing just under 1,419 trail miles across the state. It is estimated that the inventory includes between 50 percent and 75 percent of the existing recreational trails in Alabama. Two major components that are still missing include walking / fitness trails and trails funded with Transportation Enhancement funds. It is expected that a large number of walking/fitness trails that have been constructed in conjunction with park development are not yet included on the inventory. Walking trails that have been funded with RTP funds, however, are included. Many trails that have been developed with Transportation Enhancement funds are
transportation-oriented, such as sidewalks, rather than recreation. A thorough inventory of these trails will require a case by case survey to determine the nature of the trail.
Alabama Trail Inventory Summary by Region
Region Name # of Counties # of Trails Miles of Trails Avg. Length 1 Northwest Alabama Council
of Local Governments 5 37 174.21 4.71
2 West Alabama Regional Commission 7 23 52.19 2.27
3 Regional Planning Commission
of Greater Birmingham 6 67 171.92 2.57
4 East Alabama Regional Planning
and Development Commission 10 49 287.96 5.88
5 South Central Alabama
Development Commission 6 12 93.6 7.80
6 Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission 10 29 29.51 1.02
7 Southeast Alabama Regional Planning
and Development Commission 7 37 100.75 2.72
8 South Alabama Regional Planning Commission 3 44 207.68 4.72 9 Central Alabama Regional Planning
and Development Commission 3 8 11.35 1.42
10 Lee-Russell Council of Governments 2 11 19.19 1.74
11 North-central Alabama Regional
Council of Governments 3 19 52.55 2.77
12 Top of Alabama Regional
Council of Governments 5 70 218.03 3.11
Trail Demand
The demand and pursuit of more and varying trails in Alabama is steadily increasing. Not only do survey results show more and more people participating in trail activities, but they are participating more frequently. In joint public meetings conducted during the preparation of the Alabama Trail Plan and the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, stakeholders were asked to identify both outdoor recreation and trail needs. Not surprisingly, many of the outdoor recreation needs were related to trail development. With so many Alabamians utilizing trails that have been constructed during the last 25 years, a large number of support organizations have formed and partnerships have developed at the grassroots level. These past coordination and collaboration efforts are a step in the right direction for Alabama’s future trails. Still, many of those organizations are continually looking for both planning and technical guidance and, even more, looking for funding.
The rate of participation in both trail-related and outdoor recreation varies from one region of the state to another and in comparison to the statewide participation rates. Walking for pleasure was the activity in which the highest percent of the population participated in all but one region. In Region 8, freshwater beach activities has the highest percentage of the population participating. The percentage of the population that participates in walking for pleasure is highest in Region 1: Northwest Alabama and lowest in Region 11: North-central Alabama. There does not appear to be a geographical reason for this discrepancy since both regions are located across the northern part of the State.
Five other trail-related activities were in the top ten in at least one of the regions in terms of the percentage of population participating. These activities are, in addition to walking for pleasure, visiting historical sites, camping at developed sites, trail hiking, ATV trail use, and driving for pleasure. Visiting historical sites is the number two activity in Region 11 and the number three activity in three regions (Region 1, Region 3 and Region 12).
Percentage of Population Participating in Trail-Related Recreation Activities Regions In Comparison To State
Key #1 Activity #2 Activity #3 Activity # 4 to #10 Activities REGION
Activity STATE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Walking for pleasure 65.3 72.2 64.2 72.0 67.1 56.7 70.8 63.8 63.2 65.2 71.6 55.7 59.5 Visit historical sites 41.6 50.0 46.6 51.0 42.0 25.0 16.3 39.4 43.4 37.5 42.0 54.2 42.7 Camping- dev. sites 20.1 19.3 13.5 19.8 24.7 9.6 18.0 26.2 27.4 18.4 26.3 20.1 14.5 Trail hiking 15.8 10.3 8.6 18.1 15.2 12.6 13.2 17.9 17.1 16.5 25.4 17.3 17.8 ATV trail 14.4 14.9 18.6 12.4 19.6 16.2 23.6 15.3 13.4 9.2 16.7 10.7 9.7 Jogging 14.4 8.2 11.1 13.9 11.7 11.1 19.4 16.8 19.4 17.3 20.0 4.0 14.7 Driving for pleasure 12.8 8.9 7.3 11.9 13.3 19.9 19.5 14.4 13.8 18.9 13.1 6.3 6.8 Canoeing / rafting 9.1 5.9 5.1 7.3 11.2 9.7 8.0 9.7 18.2 10.3 11.9 10.1 5.2 Bird watching 8.4 6.4 7.7 7.8 6.7 14.8 9.4 11.6 9.0 10.1 10.1 3.7 2.7 Nature photography 5.8 2.0 3.0 3.1 8.2 5.6 5.9 9.4 7.5 10.1 7.5 3.9 3.6 Roller skating outdoors 5.1 1.7 1.8 7.0 5.8 3.8 3.7 5.3 7.4 3.4 10.4 4.0 5.8 Horse trail riding 4.8 4.5 6.7 3.2 6.6 6.3 4.1 7.3 3.5 4.6 7.2 3.5 4.6 Camping primitive sites 3.2 2.8 0.4 2.6 6.0 4.4 1.0 4.3 4.7 2.5 6.7 1.6 2.2 Mountain bike trail 2.8 0.8 3.3 4.9 0.9 0.2 2.0 2.2 3.2 3.8 5.3 1.4 2.4 Bicycling on roads 2.7 2.7 7.2 1.3 0.7 2.2 2.3 5.4 1.0 3.0 4.7 1.3 3.0 Other horse riding 2.3 0.4 0.7 0.5 1.9 4.2 5.1 2.6 4.6 3.4 4.6 1.3 0.5 Motorcycle trail 2.2 2.2 1.1 3.2 2.1 2.4 2.0 2.8 1.5 2.9 2.6 3.2 0.6 Truck trail 1.7 2.5 0.3 1.1 0.5 4.5 0.7 4.8 0.0 2.4 2.0 1.2 2.1
The frequency with which Alabama residents participated in trail-related activities presents an even higher level of demand than citizen participation rates. The survey shows that of the 65.3 percent of the population that participated in walking for pleasure, the average number of occasions in which they participated in the activity was 106.1 times per year. Likewise, jogging, which has a 14.4 percent participation rate, has an average frequency of 74.8 times per year; and, camping at developed sites, which has a participation rate of 20.1 percent of the population, has an average frequency rate of 9.2 times per year.
Some trail-related activities that have a lower participation rate, of less than 10 percent of the population, have a relatively high average frequency rate. In other words, only a small group
participates in an activity, but that small group engages in the activity on a regular basis. Examples of this situation include motorcycle trail riding, nature photography, bird watching, horse trail riding, and mountain bike trail riding. The participation rate for these activities ranges between only 2.8 percent to 8.4 percent of the population; however, the persons who partake in these activities do so, on average, of 28.9 times per year or more, which is equivalent to at least 2.4 times per month. This example is the reason why both the participation rate and the frequency rate must be taken into account when planning for trail facilities. It is likely that some trails may actually be used more by a small group of people than other trails in which a large number of people use the facility infrequently. These factors become especially important in working out the details for shared trail facilities or multi-use trails.
The results of the Troy University SCORP survey show that are six outdoor activities in which the State population engages on average at least once a week, with a frequency rate of 52.0 or higher. Of these six activities, four are trail-related activities: walking for pleasure, jogging, driving for pleasure, and ATV trail riding. Of the 25 outdoor recreation activities in which the population participates in approximately every two weeks, with a participation rate of 26.0 or higher, 11 are trail-related activities. The trail activities that have an average annual frequency rate between 26.0 and 52.0 include motorcycle trail riding, outdoor roller skating, nature photography, bird watching, horse trail riding, hiking, and mountain bike trail riding.
It is felt that these high volumes of both participation levels and frequency of participation speak very loudly since participation in trail-related activities generally takes some degree of planning and coordination, if only because the facilities themselves are not always close by to the general
population’s everyday routine of work and home chores/requirements.
Trail Trends
The Troy University SCORP survey gave credence to the observations that there is a huge upward swing in trail use in Alabama, both in the number of people who visit and utilize trails and how often they use trails. Trail facilities ranked high in almost every category throughout the State. This is a remarkable incidence considering that the survey queried activity levels for 40 different outdoor recreation activities. Furthermore, many of the activities were much more traditional recreation activities with greater accessibility than the existing trail system in Alabama’s
communities. The upward swing in trail use was echoed by trail and outdoor recreation stakeholders at a series of public meetings. It is clear that Alabamians want more trails, will use more trails and that they want a greater variety of trails. Currently, Alabama has more than 400 individual local trails stretching some 1,400 miles across the state. That is enough trail mileage to walk from the Gulf Coast to Little River Canyon four times. That trail mileage does not include Alabama’s distance trails, which add approximately another 1,000 miles to the State’s trail inventory.
Trail Issues
Although there are overwhelming positive aspects of trails in Alabama, there are also some painful aspects that must be addressed to the satisfaction of a large percentage of the population. The following trail issues were identified and discussed by trail and outdoor recreation stakeholders. There were often variations on the issues, but the predominant issues remained as accessibility and barriers to use, coordination of and education about trail activities, funding for planning and development, construction and maintenance, and availability, capacity and competing uses.
Trail Benefits
The great appeal of trails lies in the concept of connectivity. Trails multiply the benefits of conservation areas, parks and open spaces by linking them together. They can conserve native ecosystems and landscapes by providing connections that can sustain biodiversity in plant and animal communities. Along waterways they provide natural buffers between water and development. Trails can serve as walking and bicycling routes to work, school, local businesses and restaurants, parks and recreation sites. They can be used to conserve historic and cultural resources such as archaeological and historic sites. Trails in rural areas can be used to showcase working landscapes such as farms, groves and forests. Along scenic roadways, they provide travelers with a glimpse into Alabama’s historic past. Indeed, the connections for Alabamians to their natural surroundings, to their heritage and to each other is the greatest benefit of the trail.
Following connectivity, five categories of trail benefits were identified by trail stakeholders through discussion in public meetings: education, conservation, health and safety, feeding the soul, and economics.
Atwood Linear Park Greenway, Huntsville
Courtesy of the City of Huntsville
Introduction
Hiking Alabama
Photo Courtesy of Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel
Trails are an integral part of our history. From animal paths through the woods to the exploration of our country to planned and designed long-distance recreational treks, trails have moved us from Point A to Point B for any number of reasons. As old as the trail concept may be, each new trail brings an excitement that comes with a first discovery. In the last 25 years, Alabamians have embraced the resurgence of the recreational trail movement that has swept the United States following the creation of the National Trails System by Congress in 1968.
This year, Alabama celebrated a new addition to the National Trails System – the Alabama Scenic River Trail. On June 4, 2008. Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne designated the Alabama Scenic River Trail, along with 23 other trails, as a National Recreational Trail (NRT). The NRT designation officially recognized the Alabama Scenic River Trail as the longest one-state river trail in the nation. Secretary Kempthorne stated, “The National Trails System, including these additions, provides an excellent link to the outdoors, particularly for children. National Trails exemplify partnerships and are providing a path to fitness and stewardship for Americans of all ages.”
Secretary Kemp’s words echo the feelings of trail enthusiasts across Alabama. A renewed connection to the outdoors, fitness, environmental stewardship and trail partnerships are all part of the Alabama Trail System Concept. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is producing this trail plan to guide the development, expansion, and connection of recreational trails in the state. The Alabama Trail Plan is a companion document to the 2008 Alabama Statewide
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) which outlines the State’s priorities and strategies for the provision of outdoor recreation facilities and opportunities through 2012.
Recreational Trails Program
The Recreational Trails Program (RTP), which is administered by the Federal Highway
Administration at the national level, provides funds to States to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. The program provides funds for all kinds of recreational trail uses, such as pedestrian uses (hiking, running, wheelchair use), bicycling, in-line skating, equestrian use, cross-country skiing,
snowmobiling, off-road motorcycling, all-terrain vehicle riding, four-wheel driving, or using other off-road motorized vehicles. RTP funds come from the Federal Highway Trust Fund, and represent a portion of the motor fuel excise tax collected from non-highway recreational fuel use: fuel used for off-highway recreation by all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles, and off-highway light trucks.
The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) authorized the Recreational Trails Program as a Federal-aid highway program in 1996 and codified it in 23 U.S.C. 206. The
Recreational Trails Program (RTP) replaced the National Recreational Trails Funding Program. In 2005, the RTP was reauthorized under the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU). The federal legislation for the RTP {23 U.S.C. 206 (d)} requires that, while each state is responsible for developing its own plans, laws, policies, and administrative procedures to administer the RTP, as long as the intent of the program is met, RTP projects must be identified in, or further a specific goal of, a trail plan included or referenced in a Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan or to be identified in or further a specific goal of a State recreational trail plan. Either way, states need to have a state trail policy plan. Selected RTP projects must also be incorporated into State and metropolitan transportation improvement programs. The State of Alabama has elected to prepare the 2008 Alabama Trail Plan as a companion document to the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008 – 2012, or SCORP.
In Alabama, the RTP is administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) Recreation Division, which conducts an annual grant funding cycle. To date, Alabama has received $12,869,214 in RTP funds, which has resulted in 190 projects with a commitment of $9,662,593 in RTP funds and $2,704,703 in other funding.
Land and Water Conservation Fund
The LWCF State Assistance Program was established by the LWCF Act of 1965 (Section 6, Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965, as amended; Public Law 88-578; 16 U.S.C. 4601-4 et seq.) to stimulate a nationwide action program to assist in preserving, developing, and assuring to all citizens of the United States of present and future generations such quality and quantity of outdoor recreation resources as may be available and are necessary and desirable for individual active participation. The program provides matching grants to States and through States to local units of government, for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation sites and facilities. Grant funds are also available, to States only, for fulfilling the statewide comprehensive outdoor recreation planning requirements of the program. More than 40,000 projects have been approved to assist state and local efforts to acquire land and develop facilities for public outdoor recreation purposes. The federal investment has been matched by state and local contributions for a total LWCF grant investment of over $7.4 billion. A LWCF-assisted park is located in over 98 percent of counties in the United States. In Alabama, a total of 833 projects have been funded with LWCF monies with at least one project located in each county of the state. Since 1966, Alabama has received more than $62 million in LWCF monies.
Planning Process
The Alabama Trail Plan has been prepared as a companion document to the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012 and thereby has been prepared according with the guidelines set forth in the Land and Water Conservation Fund State Assistance Program Federal Financial Assistance Manual, Volume 69 (effective October 1, 2008), Chapter 2: Statewide
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan and Open Project Selection Process.
The public involvement process for both the Alabama Trail Plan and the Alabama SCORP were conducted simultaneously. As much as possible, public involvement efforts addressed both plans to maximize participation and decrease the burden for recreation and trail stakeholders in terms of time and travel. Four methods were used to obtain public participation in the SCORP planning process: coordination with related agencies and organizations, an extensive telephone survey, public meetings, and websites.
Recreation Stakeholder Identification and Coordination
As stated previously, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs' Recreation Programs Section of the Director’s Office is primarily responsible for comprehensive statewide recreation planning in Alabama. In addition to outdoor recreation planning, it is responsible for wetlands, trail, river, and open space
planning. Clearly, the need for participation by all agencies and persons that are considered to be recreation stakeholders by virtue of their employment or their
community involvement is necessary to comprehensively plan for outdoor recreation development on a
statewide basis. Therefore, an outdoor recreation stakeholder database was developed and is included as Appendix B. The recreation stakeholder database includes contact information for approximately 1,400 recreation and trail stakeholders from the following groups:
Federal Agencies:U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, Agricultural Extension Service, Tennessee Valley Authority, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Resource Conservation and Development Districts (RC&D's), Bureau of Land Management, and U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
State Departments:Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Alabama Department of Environmental Management, Alabama Department of Public Health, Regional and County Public Health
Departments, Alabama Forestry Commission, Alabama Historical Commission, State Colleges and Universities, and State Commissions and Authorities, and Alabama Bureau of Travel and Tourism.
Local Governments and Affiliations:Chief elected officials of all Alabama counties and municipalities, county and municipal recreation departments and authorities, regional planning commissions, metropolitan planning organizations, Alabama League of Municipalities, Association of County Commissions of Alabama.
Non Profits, Private Sector Organizations and Individuals:Alabama Recreation and Parks Association, Alabama Wildlife Federation, The Nature Conservancy; Sierra Club, Alabama Power Company, campground owners, tourist associations, recreation
organizations, trail organizations, conservation organizations, land trusts, clean water partnerships, historical organizations, planners and grant consultants, regional heritage areas, local newspapers, home builders associations, chambers of commerce, hiking organizations, biking organizations, paddling organizations, birding organizations, equestrian organizations, recreation supplier businesses, private recreation providers, and non affiliated citizens throughout the state.
Telephone Survey
An extensive telephone survey was conducted by Troy University’s Center for Business and Economic Services, located in the Sorrell College of Business, between July 2007 and June 2008. Over 2,500 surveys of Alabama households were completed by calling randomly drawn residential telephone numbers across the state. Sample numbers were based on the square roots of the
populations of the 12 planning regions across the state in order to keep the sample from being overly concentrated in the urban planning regions. Within each planning region, county samples were based on each county’s percentage share of the planning region’s population.
The telephone survey collected data regarding the number of participants and the number of participation occasions for more than 40 outdoor recreation activities, the importance of outdoor recreation, felt needs, greatest recreational needs, perceived barriers to use of outdoor recreation facilities and the level of responsibility of state and local governments to provide outdoor recreational facilities and opportunities. The survey did specifically include questions regarding trail use. A copy of the survey instrument is included in Appendix C. The Center for Business and Economic Services provided an analysis of the survey results for the State and for each of the 12 regional planning commissions in Alabama. The 2008 SCORP Survey Analysis document is available as a companion document to the Alabama SCORP, 2008-2012 and is also
available on the ADECA website at www.adeca.alabama.gov.
Public Meetings and Websites
Two rounds of public meetings were conducted in July and September 2008 to bring recreation and trail stakeholders together to present information collected, review survey results, identify recreation and trail issues, and receive citizen comments and suggestions regarding the development of the Alabama SCORP 2008-2012 and the Alabama Trail Plan. Recreation and trail stakeholders were notified of the meetings by a postcard that was mailed to all 1,200 stakeholders listed in the recreation stakeholder database and by posting the meeting notification on the ADECA website and the Alabama Trails website.
Additionally, e-mail notification was sent too approximately 900 stakeholders through
information obtained in the stakeholder database and through the assistance of the Alabama Recreation and Parks Association to members.
The first round of public meetings were conducted at state parks and lands, and at a meeting house in a residential development in four different geographical regions of the State: at Monte Sano State Park in the north, at Cheaha State Park in the north central area, at The Waters Meeting House in central Alabama, and at the 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center in south Alabama. Each of the four regional meetings was attended by 15 to 30 recreation and trail stakeholders. During the second round of public meetings, one statewide meeting was conducted at the Alabama Power Clanton Conference Center in Clanton, Alabama. The meeting was attended by 50 stakeholders. At all of the public meetings, attendees were afforded the opportunity to discuss their outdoor recreation needs and concerns, along with suggestions for future outdoor recreation development, both locally and
statewide. Meeting participants were also asked to complete written comment forms which were used to further define outdoor recreation issues and suggestions. For those persons who were unable to attend the public meetings, information was made available on the Alabama Trails website for review. The meeting comment form was also posted with directions for return by mail, fax or e-mail.
Final production of the Alabama Outdoor Recreation and Trail documents included four documents bound together in one three-ring binder to facilitate amendments, as necessary. The documents are: (1) the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012, (2) the Alabama Trail Plan, 2008, (3) the Alabama SCORP and Trail Plan Appendices, and (4) the Alabama SCORP Survey Analysis. A limited number of the printed binder documents were produced; however, electronic copies of the full documents are available on disk from ADECA and are posted on the ADECA website at www.adeca.alabama.gov and the Alabama Trails website at
www.alabamatrails.gov. Additionally, summary documents were produced of both the Alabama SCORP and the Alabama Trail Plan for broader distribution.
Organization
The Alabama Trail Plan includes six separate components, organized as chapters: trail definitions, a trail inventory, trail demand and resources, trail benefits, identification of trail issues and barriers to use, and the trail strategy. The trail definitions chapter discusses the differences between recreational trails and other types of trails, what characteristics constitute a recreational trail, and categorizes trails by use into categories for trail planning purposes. The inventory is an initial compilation of existing recreational trails in Alabama. A chapter on trail demand and resources is included to insure that future meet the trail needs of Alabama citizens. Discussion of trail benefits provides information that may encourage more active participation in recreational trail use and development by various groups, while the discussion of trail issues and barriers is designed to determine how barriers can be
minimized or eliminated to make trails more accessible to use by all population groups.
The planning boundary areas of Alabama’s 12 Regional Planning Commissions (RPCs) were used for the analysis and evaluation of demographic, physical characteristics, trail inventory information, and demand and need data. These regional areas segment the state into smaller, more manageable
planning units. Although the boundaries are not perfect, the regions represent distinct segments of the state’s resources and people. A map of the Regional Planning Commission boundaries is included as Figure 1.
REGION 1
Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments
Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Marion and Winston Counties
REGION 2
West Alabama Regional Commission
Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Pickens, and Tuscaloosa Counties
REGION 3
Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham
Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker Counties
REGION 4
East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission Calhoun, Chambers, Cherokee, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Etowah, Randolph, Talladega, and Tallapoosa Counties
REGION 5
South Central Alabama Development Commission Bullock, Butler, Crenshaw, Lowndes, Macon and Pike Counties
REGION 6
Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission
Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Dallas, Marengo, Monroe, Perry, Sumter, Washington, and Wilcox Counties
REGION 7
Southeast Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission
Barbour, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston Counties
REGION 8
South Alabama Regional Planning Commission Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile Counties
REGION 9
Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission
Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery Counties
Figure 1:
Alabama’s
Regional Planning Commission Boundaries
REGION 10
Lee-Russell Council of Governments Lee and Russell Counties
REGION 11
North-central Alabama Regional Council of Governments
Cullman, Lawrence and Morgan Counties
REGION 12
Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments
DeKalb, Jackson, Limestone, Madison, and Marshall Counties
