Harlan, IA (August 12, 2019) – The Shelby County Conservation Board and City of Harlan are interested in improving public access to the West Nishnabotna River in Shelby County. Golden Hills RC&D and Iowa Department of Natural Resources are helping assess the possibility of developing approximately 18 miles of the river as a state water trail from just north of the city of Harlan (Reinig Access) south to the county line, connecting with the existing state water trail in Pottawattamie County.

The meeting will be held on Monday, August 19 at 6:30-p.m. at Nishna Bend Recreation Area (514 Maple Rd, Harlan, IA 51537).

Here are some of the changes that may occur if the river becomes a state water trail:
• Improved access and parking
• Wayfinding signage and interpretive panels, a brochure with a map.
• Greater maintenance and management of the river resource
• More on-water opportunities for interpretive/educational programs.
• Educational campaigns available for safety, river etiquette, and litter control.
• Access to funding and technical assistance for access improvements and interpretive materials (brochures, maps, interpretive panels, etc).
• Hazard mitigation and streambank stability opportunities.
• Broad partnership among public land managers for problem solving.

River recreation has increased significantly in recent years, and this meeting will be a way for river users to learn about Iowa’s water trail program, ask questions, and express concerns. Canoeists, kayakers, inner-tubers, and anyone else who currently uses the West Nishnabotna River for recreational purposes in and around Shelby County are welcome to attend. Questions should be directed to Lance Brisbois, Project Coordinator at Golden Hills RC&D: Lance@goldenhillsrcd.org or 712.482.3029.