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River’s new designation expected to spur tourism

Water trails designation may boost paddle sports in region

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By Ken McCall, Staff Writer Updated 11:04 PM Thursday, August 26, 2010

DAYTON — The Miami Valley’s three main rivers were designated state water trails Thursday, a move that will help boost economic development and tourism along the rivers, officials said.

More than 50 officials from five counties, plus Five Rivers Metroparks, the Miami Conservancy District, University of Dayton and the City of Dayton gathered at the convergence of the three rivers just north of Riverscape Metropark for the designation ceremony Thursday evening.

The official announcement was accompanied by a ceremonial launch of kayaks down the now state recognized water trail.

“We know from water trail programs across the country that this type of designation spurs local ecotourism and gets added attention where communities have access points,” said Pam Dillon, director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Watercraft, who came to town Thursday, Aug. 26, for the dedication.

“They may not only see more people launching on the river, but people will also come in from across the state and even from other states to check out designated water trails.”

The three rivers essentially converge downtown, and proponents believes attracting people to the rivers is key to reviving downtown.

Together, the Great Miami, Stillwater and Mad rivers make up the largest water trail system in Ohio — a total of 265 miles of rivers winding through 11 counties, involving 32 partner agencies who will maintain 150 different river access facilities, said Sarah Hippensteel, program development director with the Miami Conservancy District.

Ohio has only four other designated water trails.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2393 or kmccall@DaytonDailyNews.com.

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