Section 51.70. Purpose.

 

(1)  The purpose of this subchapter is to encourage and provide for the establishment of a balanced system of state trails, for use by equestrians, bicyclists, cross-country skiers or hikers as provided in s. 23.175 , Stats. Increasing demand for trail-based recreation, and promoting the preservation of public access to, travel within, and enjoyment and appreciation of the outdoor resources, will be provided by establishing state trails which are:

(a) Near urban areas or near or within scenic, historic and culturally significant areas,

(b) Likely to receive significant use, and

(c) Of more than local significance.

(2)  The department may designate state trails that meet the purposes of s. 23.175 , Stats., as a part of the state trail system. The department may provide for or assist in the acquisition of state trails by nonprofit conservation organizations, and enter into agreements with nonprofit conservation organizations or governmental units for their development, administration and management.

Cr. Register, October, 1990, No. 418 , eff. 11-1-90; correction in (1) (intro.) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 12., Stats., Register, June, 1994, No. 462 ; emerg. am. (2), eff. 9-1-00; CR 00-135 : am. (2), Register July 2001, No. 547 eff. 8-1-01; CR 10-127 : am. (2) Register February 2012 No. 674 , eff. 3-1-12.