Arizona Trail Feasibility Study bill introduced

Senator McCain (R-AZ) and Representative Kolbe (R-AZ), along with the entire Arizona delegation, introduced the Arizona Trail Feasibility Study Act. This bill would authorize the Secretaries of Agriculture and Interior to conduct a joint study to determine the feasibility of designating the Arizona Trail as a National Scenic or Historic Trail.

Since 1968, when the National Trails System Act was established, Congress has designated twenty national trails. This legislation is the first step in the process of national trail designation for the Arizona Trail. If the study concludes that including the Arizona Trail as a part of the national trail system is feasible, subsequent legislation will be introduced to designate the Arizona Trail as either a National Scenic or Historic Trail.

Senator McCain stated, "The Arizona Trail is a beautifully diverse stretch of public lands, mountains, canyons, deserts, forests, historic sites, and communities. For the past 10 years, over 16 Federal, state and local agencies, as well as community and business organizations, have worked to form a partnership to create, develop, and manage the Arizona Trail. Designating the Arizona Trail as a national trail would enhance the management of the Trail to ensure that this pristine stretch of diverse land is preserved for future generations to enjoy."

"The Arizona Trail is a magnificent stretch of scenic land encompassing diverse ecosystems including the Sonora Desert and the Grand Canyon," said Congressman Kolbe. "I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in the Arizona delegation to protect this unique and valuable open space corridor, which connects four National Forests, two National Parks and 30 outdoor recreation areas. This legislation is an important step in designating the Arizona Trail as a National Scenic or Historic Trail for Arizonans and all Americans to enjoy and appreciate."