S. 1470: Continental Divide National Scenic Trail Completion Act

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail Completion Act aims to expedite the completion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, a long hiking route that runs along the Continental Divide in the United States. Here are the key components of the bill:

Objective

The main goal of the bill is for the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior to prioritize finishing the Trail as a continuous pathway within a ten-year timeframe after the bill is enacted.

Definitions

• Secretary: Refers to the Secretary of Agriculture.
• Ttrail: The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail itself.
• Trail Completion Team: A joint team formed by the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to assist in completing the Trail.

Establishment of Trail Completion Team

A Trail Completion Team will be established within one year of the bill's enactment. This team is responsible for:

• Facilitating the completion and optimization of the Trail.
• Helping develop a comprehensive plan for the Trail's completion.

The team will consult with federal agencies, state and local governments, landowners, and other interested parties to ensure collaboration and gather necessary input.

Comprehensive Development Plan

Within three years of the Trail Completion Team’s formation, a comprehensive development plan for the Trail must be created. This plan will include:

• Identification of any gaps in the Trail that cannot be completed due to land acquisition issues.
• Opportunities to use easements from willing sellers to help complete the Trail.
• General and specific plans for Trail development, including cost estimates.

Partnerships

The Secretaries are encouraged to form agreements with volunteer and nonprofit organizations to support the administration and completion of the Trail.

Limitation on Authority

The bill specifies that it does not grant any new authority to acquire land for the Trail beyond what is already permitted under existing laws. It also does not prioritize Trail-related land acquisition over other land acquisition needs.

Relevant Companies

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