Page 51 - High Knob Master Plan

HIGH KNOB REGIONAL INITIATIVE CHAPTER 8: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS 51
HIGH KNOB NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
Establishing the potential High Knob National Recreation Area will acknowledge regional efforts to prioritize and promote outdoor recreation. A National Recreation Area (NRA) is a federal designation bestowed on lands recognized for their exceptional outdoor resources. These areas combine outdoor recreation opportunities and natural scenic beauty, while being within easy driving distance to population centers. The President’s Recreation Advisory Council, established in 1963, requires National Recreation Areas to be established by acts of the United States Congress. These areas are managed by various federal agencies, most of which are part of the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture. For example, Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, located in Southwest Virginia near the border with Tennessee and North Carolina is under the jurisdiction of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Similarly, in the High Knob region, The US Forest Service could potentially manage the US Forest Service lands of the High Knob National Recreation Area. To address capacity issues, the he USFS may study partnerships for management of the NRA. This distinction as a National Recreation Area will formally recognize the efforts made to date by High Knob Region communities, help promote stewardship of natural resources, and continue positive momentum into the future.
NEXT STEPS
1. Working with coordinated materials from the Entity, embark on an educational campaign to all High Knob communities, explaining benefits of recognized National Recreational Areas , and reasons for considering High Knob.
2. Once there is significant local business and citizen support, work with local and state leaders. Have designation requested by local municipal boards.
3. Work with local congressional staff (both US Representative and US Senators) to demonstrate local support and make a formal request.
4. With local congressional staff support, make a formal request to Congressional representative and Senators to designate the High Knob National Recreational Area.
5. Support USFS in their subsequent studies to verify that the High Knob Region can meet this distinction.
National Recreation Areas are recognized places with significant outdoor recreation opportunities, natural aesthetic attractions, and cultural resource potential.
REGIONAL INITIATIVES