THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA

SENATE RESOLUTION

INTRODUCED BY PIPPY, FONTANA, SOLOBAY, BOSCOLA, RAFFERTY, ARGALL, ALLOWAY, DINNIMAN AND BREWSTER, JUNE 17, 2011

REFERRED TO ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES AND ENERGY, JUNE 17, 2011  

A RESOLUTION

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study

the economic impact of recreational water trails on local

communities in this Commonwealth.

WHEREAS, The Great Outdoors America report published by the

Outdoor Resources Review Group recommended development of a

nationwide water trails network; and

WHEREAS, This Commonwealth has an abundance of natural

resources that are enjoyed by residents and visitors alike with

86,000 miles of rivers and streams; and

WHEREAS, Pennsylvania is a recognized leader in the

development of water trails with an active Statewide water

trails effort and more than 20 water trails developed or under

development totaling nearly 2,000 river miles; and

WHEREAS, Several of this Commonwealth's water trails have

gained national attention with National Recreation Trail

designation; and

WHEREAS, Tourism, including outdoor tourism, is the second

largest industry in Pennsylvania, generating $5.1 billion in

payroll and jobs for this Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission are partners in

these efforts along with other public and private entities to

develop water trails in Pennsylvania; and

WHEREAS, Several studies have demonstrated the significant

economic importance to local communities of land-based

recreational trails; and

WHEREAS, This Commonwealth should have a full appreciation of

the economic value of water trails on its communities to help

target future investments; therefore be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate direct the Legislative Budget and

Finance Committee to study the economic impact of recreational

water trails on local communities in this Commonwealth; and be

it further

RESOLVED, That the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee

report its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly

within a year of the passage of this resolution.