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Metacomet Monadnock Mattabesett Trail Feasibility Study
Northeast Regional Office » Metacomet Monadnock Mattabesett Trail Feasibility Study » Document List
Responding to the perceived threats to the long-term viability of the trail system, Congressman John Olver of Massachusetts and Congresswoman Nancy Johnson of Connecticut sponsored federal legislation to study the Metacomet Monadnock Mattabesett Trail System in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Two goals were established for the study that became Public Law 107-338 in December 2002.
Primary Goal - To determine the best way to ensure the long-term viability of a continuous public-use trail system from Long Island Sound through Connecticut to the Massachusetts/New Hampshire border.
Secondary Goal - To determine whether or not designation as a National Scenic Trail makes sense as a means of achieving the primary goals of trail system viability.
In addition, the study had four guiding principles:
1. Meaningful investigation of the trail system's long-term viability can only occur with involvement of a wide range of trail advocates, landowners, and other interested parties;
2. Emphasis will be on strengthening existing trail system partnerships and characteristics of use, maintenance, ownership, and voluntary stewardship;
3. Respect for private property rights is a fundamental component of a successful project; and
4. Federal condemnation of land will not be considered as an option in establishing or protecting the trail system.
Primary Goal - To determine the best way to ensure the long-term viability of a continuous public-use trail system from Long Island Sound through Connecticut to the Massachusetts/New Hampshire border.
Secondary Goal - To determine whether or not designation as a National Scenic Trail makes sense as a means of achieving the primary goals of trail system viability.
In addition, the study had four guiding principles:
1. Meaningful investigation of the trail system's long-term viability can only occur with involvement of a wide range of trail advocates, landowners, and other interested parties;
2. Emphasis will be on strengthening existing trail system partnerships and characteristics of use, maintenance, ownership, and voluntary stewardship;
3. Respect for private property rights is a fundamental component of a successful project; and
4. Federal condemnation of land will not be considered as an option in establishing or protecting the trail system.