Kayakers enjoy birdwatching, scenic views and tranquility at Rodman Slough Regional Park, located on the Nice-Lucerne Cutoff. Courtesy photo.

LAKE COUNTY – Imagine, a series of trails encircling the perimeter of Clear Lake – both land and water-based – highlighting Lake County’s outstanding natural beauty, culture and history.

This dream took another step forward recently when the Lake County Board of Supervisors approved an agreement with Alta Planning to develop the Konocti Regional Trails (KRT) Master Plan. Alta Planning is a nationwide consulting firm specializing in developing trail master plans, greenways, multi-use hiking and community pathways.

For the past year, a stakeholder’s group under the direction of Kim Clymire, Director of Lake County’s Department of Public Services, has been developing the concept of the Konocti Regional Trails system in conjunction with a technical assistance grant from the National Park Service, River Trails and Conservation Assistance (NPS RTCA) program.

The land-based trails would provide hikers with scenic views of Clear Lake, Mt. Konocti, vineyards, low-lying valleys, small communities and distant wilderness areas. Wherever possible, plans are to use low-impact existing trails, utility easements, fire roads or fire breaks located on public lands, or on private lands of voluntary property owners; eminent domain is not a consideration.

The water “trails” would permit recreational kayakers and canoers to experience the same views, vistas and educational opportunities, but from a reverse perspective while fishing, bird watching or enjoying Lake County’s clean air.

Through the use of signage, the trails could provide educational opportunities and highlight geological, cultural and historical information, as well as promote economic development and agri/eco-tourism.

Over the next year, Alta Planning will compile existing and proposed trail information into the county GIS mapping database, work with community volunteers to assess proposed trails segments, develop a signage plan and design guidelines, and ultimately compile a proposed master trails and implementation plan.

This summer and fall, three community outreach meetings will be organized by Alta Planning and Lake County’s Community Development Department. The intent is to encourage and incorporate public comments, suggestions and feedback in the master plan development. Outdoor enthusiasts will also be given the opportunity to volunteer in trail development, reconnaissance and building. The first meeting is scheduled for June 18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Board of Supervisors chambers at the Lake County Courthouse in Lakeport, 255 N. Forbes St.

For more information, contact county project manager Rebecca Dierssen, Lake County Department of Public Services at 707-262-4293, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Links to all current trails/maps in Lake County is available at www.KonoctiTrails.com .

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oh jeeze!
written by smurf, May 29, 2009

how much did THIS boondoggle cost? We REALLY needed to hire an out-of-county consultant-AGAIN? This could have been done in-house, hell, Chuck and Holly did the ENTIRE water trail program THEMSELVES (it's excellent, BTW). The concept is good though, really should have been done a long time ago, with some thought and work this will be a fantastic assest when finished, for both locals and tourists.

Imagine
written by a guest, May 29, 2009

imagine that Lake County could become beeter with us at the helm. Imagine my arse.

Have to concur with Phil on
written by Donna Christopher, May 29, 2009

this one, Chuck and Holly have done an extreme amount of work all on there own time & dime to create a reason to come to Lake County and leave your tourists dollars here. And with our roads crumbling and no duckets in the road repair coffers - those trails may come in might handy! We may all be back to one Horse power before too long.

It is a good thing there
written by a guest, May 29, 2009

is no budget shortfall in the county.

We are fortunate to have extra cash to throw around.

FYI... this is about securing outside funding...
written by drushing01, May 29, 2009

Holly helped write the above article and chuck & holly participated on the consultant selection board. Sorry to spend the outside money, but this was a necessary step. local folks (volunteer) and local expertise was figured into the bid to lower the cost. We did as much as we possibly could locally and this step is needed to finish and secure outside funds.

Thanks for the additional info DR, nice to have
written by Donna Christopher, May 29, 2009

a supe that is paying attention to what the peeps are grumbling about. Quite refreshing!