What’s Next for the Buckeye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study?

What’s next

Now that the Public Comment Period for the Buckeye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study has concluded, the quest for the Buckeye Trail to become the nation’s twelfth National Scenic Trail enters a new phase: advocacy.

The Buckeye Trail Association (BTA) reports strong engagement from supporters across the state, with an estimated 300 people attending the five in-person meetings and another 200 participating virtually on January 23.

A new phase begins

The Buckeye National Scenic Trail Advocacy Campaign officially launches today. BTA volunteers will begin reaching out to members and the public to build widespread support for the Buckeye Trail’s designation as a National Scenic Trail.

Each of the ten BTA Chapters will be encouraged to establish a Chapter Advocacy Committee, forming a coordinated, statewide network of Ohioans united behind this historic effort.

Building support over the next 22 months

Over the next 22 months, BTA volunteers will engage with state and federal legislators, community leaders, and advocacy partners to build momentum for the designation.

Once the National Park Service completes its feasibility study and submits it to the U.S. Congress, the BTA’s focus will shift to convincing members of Congress and the U.S. Senate that the Buckeye Trail deserves National Scenic Trail status.