The benefits of water trails are many to water enthusiasts, and many Virginia localities recognize that ecotourism benefits their economy, so water trails (sometimes called blueways) are a natural fit for economic development. In Virginia, the growth in kayaking and water-based sports continues to create a demand for destination water trails. Valued for recreation, economic and tourism opportunities, and education, Virginia’s water trails most often are locally or regionally managed.
The necessary components for a successful water trail are public access points at suitable distances, adequate parking at those access areas and rest stops with sanitation facilities. Longer trips may require canoe-in campsites, drinking water, food and other supplies. Water planners need to be sensitive to property owners' concerns by minimizing opportunities for trespassing on private lands. The needs of paddlers and boaters should be addressed at appropriate intervals along a water trail before producing maps or advertising it.
There's more to water access than getting a boat in the water. It also comprises fishing from piers and banks. Virginians are fortunate in having access to the ocean, the Chesapeake Bay, lakes, rivers and streams. Much of Virginia's shoreline, however, is privately owned. This means that meeting growing demands on water resources, as indicated in the Virginia Outdoors Plan, requires partnerships between private and public landowners. DCR recreational planning staff helps foster those partnerships by working with local governments, nonprofits and regional planning district commissions. It requires coordination to create water access sites and develop water trails.