Appalachian Trail Centennial Act Proposed in Congress

The Appalachian Trail Centennial Act, introduced in Congress this month by Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) and U.S. Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY) and Don Beyer (D-VA), aims to affirm the relationship between National Trails and their non-profit partners in celebration of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s 100th birthday in 2025.

What will the Centennial Act do for the AT?

The Centennial Act has a few key goals to help National Scenic Trails continue effective management in the future. In a summary posted to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s website, several are outlined. 

The primary goal is to establish standards for  Designated Operating Partners (DOPs) for National Scenic and Historic Trails. Due to the ATC’s success over the past hundred years, it is going to be used as a model for DOPs where appropriate.  These DOPs will be organizations that demonstrate “experience in the management, maintenance, and preservation of the trail.” 

These DOPs will work with the National Park Service (NPS), United States Forest Service (USFS), tribal and state agencies to coordinate and streamline resource management within the trail corridor.  This includes trail maintenance, outreach and education, improving land protections,  visitor use studies, and volunteer management. 

The Act also allows excess resources from federal agencies, such as tools and equipment, to be available to volunteer trail maintenance groups. 

Requirements for Designated Operating Partners

The Centennial Act specifically designates the ATC as the Designated Operating Partner for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and outlines the requirements for others. While there are others, the key requirements are that the organization must be a nonprofit, have a record of trail management, and have a plan for managing volunteers for trail stewardship.  

Though not specified, the Pacific Crest Trail Association and Continental Divide Trail coalition will likely be the choices for the PCT and CDT respectively.

What Does the Act Need Now

The Centennial Act is still in the early stages of legislation and needs support to make it through both houses. If you’re living in the United States, you can look up your representatives in Congress to call and express your support. Otherwise, talking about it with other hikers and online helps to bring attention to the Act.

If you are curious about the full text of the Act, it’s available on Senator Kaine’s website.