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The American Trails organization has proclaimed Florida the "Best Trails" state, recognizing the Sunshine State for "its vision, initiatives and management of its statewide trails system."
The award is given by the organization every two years in recognition of "contributions of volunteers, professionals, agencies and other leaders who are working to create a national system of trails for all Americans," notes a press release issued by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
"Receiving the award from American Trails is an incredible honor and recognizes the importance of connecting communities with green spaces to our environment and our economy," said DEP Deputy Secretary for Land and Recreation Bob Ballard. "Our state is known throughout the world for its pristine environment, and the state's trails are a perfect showcase of those natural resources and recreational opportunities."
According to an article in the North Florida News Daily, the state DEP currently manages approximately 80,000 acres of greenways and eight state trails. Six of those eight trails were part of the nationwide "Rails to Trails" program, which are old railroad corridors that now host wide paths suitable for walkers/joggers, bicycle riders, and inline skaters. An estimated three million visitors per year use Florida's greenways and trails for recreation.
"Florida has embraced the value of greenways and trails with an enthusiasm and level of quality that is a model for the nation," noted Bob Searns, Chairman, Board of Directors for American Trails. "Exemplary programs like the [DEP] Office of Greenways and Trails' online trails database and regional trails forums have set a standard. Local and regional projects, trails on land and on water, are delivering a first class infrastructure for residents and an example for tourists to take back home."
The state and its employees won several other individual awards presented this year by American Trails, including a "Trails and the Arts" award given to Pinellas County.