lining up funding for a universal-access trail around Bicentennial Pond.” She adds, “And beyond those proj- ects, the town plan now states clearly that Mansfield’s park and preserve sys- tem, including natural and active recre- ation areas, provides access to and meet the needs of all residents.” Vicky Wetherell, longtime leader of

WRA, appreciates how each step built on past accomplishments. “It has been a steady progression. The Willimantic River Yacht Club— volunteers who organized a river race for 27 years— did the wet and sweaty work of clear- ing obstructions. We distributed their one-page guide for many years. Then we created a web-based guide.” She adds, “Working with the National Park Service Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, we used a four-step process to get NRT designation. First, our volunteers inven- toried every launch site and reach of the Willi. Second, we used that data to write one-page stewardship plans for each launch— to control erosion and invasive plants for example.

Next, we wrote a paddle guide with lots of safety and logistical suggestions for novice paddlers and families.” TLGV repeated the process on the Quinebaug two years later. Next up is the Shetucket River.

In 2014, dozens of on-the-water events will acquaint more people with the beauty of the Quinebaug and Willimantic.

Information sign for a water trail access point

Rivers. Larry Diamond enjoys the com- pany on the water. “Everybody is smil- ing and happy as we pass. Now I won- der: How do we get kids and adults away from electronic gadgets to enjoy these treasures for real?”

Learn more about visiting and paddling the area at www.thelastgreenvalley.org.

Engineering

Our award-winning Dunnellon Trail Bridge design includes sustainable features that pay homage to the historic railroad bridge that previously occupied the site.

Bridging the gap

At Atkins, our designs are transformed with careful consideration to aesthetics, historical signifi cance, and community collaboration. The new Dunnellon Trail Bridge connects the Withlacoochee State Trail with the Cross Florida Greenway and furthers economic opportunity focused on ecotourism.

www.atkinsglobal.com/northamerica 800.284.5182 19 Environmental

Landscape architecture Planning