Preliminary Planning Framework

Transcription

1 Champlain Valley 1 National Vision Statement Heritage Partnership The CVNHP includes any historic site or community along the linked navigable waterways of Lake Champlain, Lake George, the Champlain Canal, and the Upper Hudson River that contains a physical, cultural, or historical resource representing either of the Partnership s themes: Making of Nations and Corridor of Commerce. The communities and sites within the Vermont and New York counties of Grand Isle, Franklin, Chittenden, Addison, Rutland, Bennington, Clinton, Essex, Warren, Saratoga and Washington are eligible to participate in the CVNHP. The communities and sites in the Brome-Missisquoi, La Vallée-du- Preliminary Planning Framework Richelieu, Rouville, Le Bas-Richelieu, Le Haut-Richelieu regional municipal counties of Quebec are also invited to participate in the. Through the support of Senator James Jeffords, the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Management Act of provided funding to inventory the cultural resources of the Champlain Valley and determine if the region was eligible to be designated as a national heritage area. In, the National Park Service published the Special Resource Study Report of the Champlain Valley Heritage Corridor Project that concluded the region contains resources and represents a theme, Making of Nations that is of outstanding importance in U.S. history. A subsequent study to determine a framework for possible implementation of one or more of the management options identified in the Special Resource Study Report was commissioned by the LCBP through funds appropriated in the 01 Interior Appropriations bill. The Quebec-Labrador Foundation conducted workshops and stakeholder meetings throughout the Champlain and Richelieu valleys. The group prepared a report describing options for the LCBP Steering Committee to consider in formulating its recommendations to the congressional delegation. The 0 QLF report, Developing a Heritage Strategy for the Champlain-Richelieu-Upper Hudson Region, identified three principal roles the CVNHP should undertake: marketing and interpretation, physical infrastructure and coordination. The report also emphasized the need for collaboration among New York, Quebec and Vermont, Spring 0 1

2 Farmers market in summer. Vision Statement (a view from the future) The people of the region continue to value and celebrate the significance of their rich heritage. Historic cities, traditional small towns and picturesque hamlets prosper. Healthy farms and forests are still an important part of community life. Heritage sites thrive. The water and air are clean. We teach and respect the history and traditions of those who have come to live here and are stewards of the place they created. We continue to overcome political borders and nurture a robust economy and strong regional identity through thriving collaboration among individuals, organizations, and businesses. 1

3 1 Introduction About the Preliminary Planning Framework T he release of the Preliminary Planning Framework for the Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership (CVNHP) is a step closer to implementing a unified approach to conserving, interpreting and promoting the historic, natural, cultural and recreational treasures of the region. The contents of the Framework and the public input generated in the spring 0 public workshops will be the foundation for a Draft Plan/ Environmental Assessment, which is scheduled for release in August 0. In addition to the chapters on planning, management and strategic issues within this Framework, the Draft Plan/Environmental Assessment will include an analysis of possible environmental consequences and alternatives for implementation. This document is the result of months of planning, including more than meetings with stakeholder group and the general public last summer and fall. More than 00 people attended these meetings and scores of comments were recorded and incorporated into this document. Please keep in mind that the Preliminary Planning Framework is a work in progress; an interim step in the path to developing a management plan for the CVNHP. This Framework is intended to serve as a focus point for further discussion on planning for the implementation of the CVNHP. Several public workshops on the proposed approaches within this Framework are scheduled in April and May 0. Please visit our website for specific meeting times and learn how you can participate in the process. If you have questions or comments, please contact the Lake Champlain Basin Program at 0--, or via at heritage@lcbp.org.

4 View of Crown Point, NY (foreground) and Addison, VT (background) connected by the Champlain Bridge.

5 1 Table of Contents Planning for the CVNHP Project Location Project Background Purpose and Mission Approach to Managing the CVNHP Guiding Principles Management of the CVNHP Relationship to Opportunities for Action Strategic Goals, Objectives and Actions Cultural and Historical Research Conservation of Heritage Resources Recreation and Accessibility Interpretation and Education Coordination, Communication and Capacity Building Marketing the CVNHP Battle of Plattsburgh Reenactment in Plattsburgh, NY, sponsored by the Battle of Plattsburgh Assocaition. From local historical societies to regional byway organizations, the region is fortunate to have an impressive array of non-profit organizations working in support of heritage tourism. These groups form the foundation for the successful implementation of the CVNHP.

6 Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership F r a n k l i n G r a n d I s l e C o u n t y C l i n t o n C o u n t y C o u n t y C h i t t e n d e n C o u n t y E s s e x C o u n t y A d d i s o n C o u n t y W a r r e n C o u n t y R u t l a n d C o u n t y W a s h i n g t o n C o u n t y B e n n i n g t o n C o u n t y S a r a t o g a C o u n t y Map Courtesy of: Planning for the CVNHP Project Location The CVNHP includes any historic site or community along the linked navigable waterways of Lake Champlain, Lake George, the Champlain Canal, and the Upper Hudson River that contains a physical, cultural, or historical resource representing either of the Partnership s themes: Making of Nations and Corridor of Commerce. The communities and sites within the Vermont and New York counties of Grand Isle, Franklin, Chittenden, Addison, Rutland, Bennington, Clinton, Essex, Warren, Saratoga and Washington are eligible to participate in the CVNHP. The communities and sites within the Brome-Missisquoi, La Vallée-du-Richelieu, Rouville, Pierre-de-Saurel, Le Haut- Richelieu regional municipal counties of Quebec are also invited to participate in the CVNHP. 1

7 1 Project Background Through the support of Senator James Jeffords, the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Management Act of provided funding to inventory the cultural resources of the Champlain Valley and determine if the region was eligible to be designated as a national heritage area. In, the National Park Service published the Special Resource Study Report of the Champlain Valley Heritage Corridor Project that concluded the region contains resources and represents a theme, Making of Nations that is of outstanding importance in U.S. history. A subsequent study to determine a framework for possible implementation of one or more of the management options identified in the Special Resource Study Report was commissioned by the LCBP through funds appropriated in the 01 Interior Appropriations bill. The Quebec- Labrador Foundation conducted workshops and stakeholder meetings throughout the Champlain and Richelieu valleys. The group prepared a report describing options for the LCBP Steering Committee to consider in formulating its recommendations to the congressional delegation. The 0 QLF report, Developing a Heritage Strategy for the Champlain- Richelieu-Upper Hudson Region, identified three principal roles the CVNHP should undertake: marketing and interpretation, physical The 0 QLF report, Developing a Heritage Strategy for the Champlain- Richelieu-Upper Hudson Region, identified three principal roles the CVNHP should undertake: marketing and interpretation, physical infrastructure and coordination. Village Tavern, John Lewis Krimmel,, oil on canvas, courtesy of the Toledo Museum of Art.

8 The enabling legislation of the CVNHP, the National Heritage Areas Act of 0 (Public Law -), states the new heritage area was established to recognize the importance of the historical, cultural, and recreational resources of the Champlain Valley; to preserve, protect, and interpret those resources; to enhance the tourism economy; and to encourage partnerships among state/provincial and local governments; and non-profit organizations... infrastructure and coordination. The report also emphasized the need for collaboration among New York, Quebec and Vermont, building partnerships and respecting local initiatives, and connecting resources thematically rather than geographically. The enabling legislation of the CVNHP, the National Heritage Areas Act of 0 (Public Law -), states the new heritage area was established to recognize the importance of the historical, cultural, and recreational resources of the Champlain Valley; to preserve, protect, and interpret those resources; to enhance the tourism economy; and to encourage partnerships among state/provincial and local governments; and non-profit organizations in New York, Quebec and Vermont to carry out the purposes of the legislation. The aim of the enabling legislation is to assist the local governments and nongovernmental organizations in preserving, protecting, and interpreting the resources of the CVNHP. From local historical societies to regional byway organizations, the region is fortunate to have an impressive array of non-profit organizations working in support of heritage tourism. These groups form the foundation for the successful implementation of the CVNHP. 1

9 1 Burlington s Waterfront in, courtesy of the University of Vermont Special Collections. Purpose and Mission The LCBP has traditionally focused on the watershed that feeds Lake Champlain. The organization works with partners to improve the water quality of Lake Champlain and its tributaries through many initiatives, including reducing phosphorus runoff to the lake, working to prevent aquatic nuisance species from entering the watershed, and promoting and interpreting our natural and cultural treasures to build both appreciation and improved stewardship of all of the Basin s resources. Most of the CVNHP is located within the Basin, but it also includes Bennington and Saratoga counties outside the basin to the south. The LCBP supported a wide array of heritage and recreation initiatives for several years prior to the NPS special resource study. In 01, LCBP produced the Lake Champlain Wayside Exhibit Manual, a how-to guide for parties interested in utilizing a basin-wide signage system design template. To date, the LCBP has provided design services to groups and organizations for more than exhibits, kiosks and site markers using the Chambly Canal Québec Canada United States New York Vermont Champlain Canal template. In addition, the LCBP has provided more than $1 million in funding to communities and organizations to implement the proposed actions listed in the Recreation & Cultural Heritage chapter of Opportunities for Action: An Evolving Plan for the Lake Champlain Basin In 01, LCBP produced the Lake Champlain Wayside Exhibit Manual, a how-to guide for parties interested in utilizing a basin-wide signage system design template. To date, the LCBP has provided design services to groups and organizations for more than exhibits, kiosks and site markers using the template. Lake Champlain Wayside Exhibit Manual History Nature Culture Recreation

10 (OFA). Over the years, the LCBP has funded grants for heritage and recreation efforts. The LCBP-funded projects range from simple architectural assessments of historic buildings to an underwater archeological survey of the entire lake. The enabling legislation of the CVNHP and the goals, objectives and actions of OFA directs the LCBP to encourage partnerships among governments, organizations and individuals in New York, Quebec and Vermont. Many partnerships are already in place. The LCBP is spearheading planning efforts for the 00th anniversary of Samuel de Champlain s 0 voyage up the Richelieu River to Lake Champlain. Vermonters and New Yorkers are working with their neighbors to the north to implement the goals of OFA, which specifically identifies the Quadricentennial as a tremendous economic and cultural opportunity for the Champlain Valley. Early on, the New York and Vermont Quadricentennial commissions identified OFA as a guiding document for their planning and implementation efforts. The LCBP is also coordinating with partners to the south: the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and the Hudson River National Heritage Area. These NHAs connect and overlap just north of Albany where the Mohawk River flows into the Hudson. This confluence is the hub of three transportation corridors on which extraordinary historical events occurred and social movements began. Lake Champlain flows northward into the Richelieu River, which joins the St. Lawrence River miles (1 kilometers) to the north. This waterway was an important international transportation corridor for Native Americans/First Nations long before European arrival. The subsequent empire-building campaigns of the French and English highlighted the importance of this corridor on a worldwide scale. The various geographic and cultural links among the people, historic sites and communities of the Richelieu River Valley and the CVNHP call for cross-border collaborations that highlight these resources. 1

11 Lake George, Painting by Martin Johnson Heade. The management of the CVNHP will rely heavily on local, regional and international partnerships. The LCBP is reaching out to many partners government officials, community leaders, and the general public to develop an effective management plan for the new NHA. The LCBP completed the initial public outreach for the CVNHP planning process in fall 0. LCBP staff organized and/or participated in public presentations to people in addition to local radio and cable television interviews. The public feedback generated by these meetings and workshops was positive. Many audience members and workshop participants voiced their support for a regional program that reinforces and supports the preservation, protection, and interpretation of the important historical, cultural, natural and recreational resources of the Champlain Valley. The input from these meetings and the language of the enabling legislation form the foundation for the CVNHP Mission Statement: The Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership encourages and facilitates cooperation among the people of Vermont, New York and Quebec to conserve, interpret and support the irreplaceable cultural, recreational and natural resources of the region in order to enrich the lives of those who live and visit here. The Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership encourages and facilitates cooperation among the people of Vermont, New York and Quebec to conserve, interpret and support the irreplaceable cultural, recreational and natural resources of the region in order to enrich the lives of those who live and visit here.

12 Approach to Managing the CVNHP Guiding Principals T he guiding principles for the CVNHP were established early in the development of the CVNHP. The LCBP Steering Committee approved these principals in April 0 and reaffirms them with the publication of this plan. These principals are the foundation upon which the work of the CVNHP is built. Every detail of this plan is consistent with these guiding principles. The CVNHP will: Address needs and priorities identified by communities Weave existing regional and local initiatives together with new resources into a intricate fabric of regional heritage programs Protect and enhance cultural and natural heritage resources Bring new money and resources to support local and regional heritage and recreation projects 1 The Missisquoi River./Courtesy of Dan Moriarty & Northwest Vermont Rail Trail Council.

13 1 Respect local decision-making Provide enhanced coordination without adding another layer of governance and regulation Unify the region through the interpretive themes Making of Nations and Corridor of Commerce. Foster collaboration across borders and with Native Americans and First Nations Management of the CVNHP T he Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) provides management for the CVNHP. The LCBP was established through the Lake Champlain Special Designation Act (Public Law 1-) which was signed into law on November, 0. The organization is a partnership of government agencies, private organizations, local communities, and individuals from New York, Quebec and Vermont to coordinate and support efforts which benefit the Lake Champlain Basin s water quality, fisheries, wetlands, wildlife, recreation, and heritage resources. In addition, the LCBP s Opportunities for Action: An Evolving Plan for the Lake Champlain Basin, (OFA) is named the interim management plan in the enabling legislation (Public Law -) for the CVNHP. Surrender of General Burgoyne, Painting by John Trumbull. The LCBP fulfilled the role of the managing entity for many heritage and recreation programs long before the NPS special resource study. Staff has provided technical assistance, advisement and coordination for several regional initiatives related to heritage and recreation tourism, including the New York and Vermont Quadricentennial commissions. In addition, the LCBP has provided more than $1 million in funding to communities and organizations to implement the proposed actions listed in the Recreation & Cultural Heritage chapter of OFA....the LCBP has provided more than $1 million in funding to communities and organizations to implement the proposed actions listed in the Recreation & Cultural Heritage chapter of OFA.

14 Biking along the Colchester Causeway in Colchester, VT, courtesy of Local Motion. Some notable projects supported by the LCBP include: LCBP wayside exhibit program: Started in 01, this popular program has provided design and editing services for new interpretive signs in the Champlain Valley. Lake Champlain Bikeways: The LCBP was instrumental in establishing this 1,0-mile network of bicycle routes in the Champlain Valley. In addition to the -mile principal route around the Lake and along the Richelieu River, Bikeways offers several interpretive theme loop guides for cyclists. Many of these are available in French. The Lake Champlain underwater survey: Partially funded by the LCBP, the study explored square miles of lake bottom and documented new shipwrecks. These new-found cultural resources and the many previously-known shipwrecks give Lake Champlain the most extraordinary archaeological collection of historic ships in North America. The survey also has raised public awareness about the Lake s significant history and the threat that zebra mussels hold for these irreplaceable resources. Lake Champlain Underwater Historic Preserve System: The LCBP has provided support to establish new historic preserves and purchase equipment for the safe exploration of some of Lake Champlain s most historically significant shipwrecks. Water Trails: The LCBP has provided assistance to the Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail, which links access sites and camping for paddlers along the shorelines of New York, Quebec and Vermont. Grants have been awarded to establish two interpretive water trails: 1) Explore Shelburne Bay and ) The Narrows. 1

15 1 The success of the LCBP is attributed to the strong partnerships the organization has fostered over the years. The CVNHP is the only NHA with partnership as a descriptor in its title a title the LCBP takes literally. The region has many effective local, regional and state groups that work to highlight and conserve our cultural and natural heritage resources and link them regionally. The intention of this plan is to support the efforts of these organizations through funding, technical support, and coordination among willing partners. Policy and management actions of the CVNHP will be guided by the Lake Champlain Steering Committee with advisement from the Cultural Heritage and Recreation, Citizens, Education and Outreach, and Technical advisory committees. Lake Champlain Steering Committee The Steering Committee serves as forum for information exchange and a mechanism to coordinate state and provincial policies and programs. Created by the Memorandum of Understanding on Environmental Cooperation on the Management of Lake Champlain and adopted by New York, Quebec and Vermont in, it is the only formal, international, tri-party, government-based institution currently focused on Lake Champlain. It meets about four times each year. An Executive Committee subset of the Steering Committee conducts the business of the LCBP between meetings. Membership of the Steering Committee consists of top-level officials representing state and provincial government New York, Quebec and Vermont, local government representatives, the Citizen Advisory Committee chairs, the Technical Advisory Committee chair, Cultural Heritage and Recreation Advisory Committee chair, Education and Outreach Advisory Committee chair, and five federal agency Paddling the Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail, courtesy of Kevin Rose. Created by the Memorandum of Understanding on Environmental Cooperation on the Management of Lake Champlain and adopted by New York, Quebec and Vermont in, it is the only formal, international, tri-party, governmentbased institution currently focused on Lake Champlain.

16 The Cultural Heritage and Recreation Advisory Committee includes the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) chairs, and heritage, recreation, commerce, planning and transportation specialists from the public and private sectors. Crowds disembark from passenger steamers for the Crown Point Tercentennial celebration, 0. representatives. The Steering Committee serves the following roles in guiding implementation of the CVNHP: facilitates communication and coordination among key players; monitors and evaluates progress and produces an annual State of the Lake report; secures and directs funding; updates the CVNHP Management Plan recommendations periodically based on changing environmental conditions, management programs and public input; develops the CVNHP annual budget to ensure implementation; negotiates commitments among agencies and groups; seeks consistency in regulatory programs and standards provides technical and financial assistance to local communities and organizations. Cultural Heritage and Recreation Advisory Committee The Cultural Heritage and Recreation Advisory Committee includes the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) chairs, and heritage, recreation, commerce, planning and transportation specialists from the public and private sectors. The CHRAC will serve as the primary advisory committee for CVNHP-related issues and continue to fulfill the following functions:

17 1 present the Steering Committee with sound information concerning cultural heritage and recreational initiatives to be used in the decisionmaking process; advise the Steering Committee about emerging issues with management implications and the necessary research or actions to address those issues; advise the Steering Committee regarding opportunities for transboundary partnerships and cooperative projects both within the Basin and with adjacent areas outside the Basin; assess the technical merit of LCBP-funded cultural heritage and recreation studies and projects; interpret the results of cultural heritage and recreation programs to help determine success or redirection of projects. Citizens Advisory Committees The Citizens Advisory Committees (CACs) in New York, Quebec, and Vermont were initially created by the Steering Committee. The CACs make recommendations on the condition and management of Lake Champlain to the Steering Committee. The New York CAC has members appointed by the Commissioner of NYSDEC; the Vermont CAC has members appointed by the Governor and the Legislature; and the Quebec CAC has eight members appointed by the Minister of Environment. The CACs serve the following roles in implementing the CVNHP Management Plan: provide a forum for citizens, interest groups and local governments to discuss CVNHP issues; advise the Steering Committee about public concerns regarding the CVNHP; link the Steering Committee to state legislative bodies and local groups; make recommendations to the Steering Committee about CVNHP priorities; encourage agencies to follow through with their commitments to the CVNHP. Fort Ticonderoga.

18 Birch bark canoe construction at Lake Champlain Maritime Museum. Technical Advisory Committee The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) is composed of professionals from academia, management agencies, and other scientific experts. The TAC was appointed by the Steering Committee. The TAC has the following functions with regards to the CVNHP: presents the Steering Committee with technical information on environmental issues to be used for decision-making; advises the Steering Committee about emerging environmental management issues and prepares research or action to address those issues. Education and Outreach Advisory Committee The Education and Outreach Advisory Committee is comprised of professionals from educational institutions in the Basin and with representation from the Citizens Advisory Committees (CACs) and other appropriate sectors. The committee fulfills the following roles: present the Steering Committee with sound education and outreach information to be used in the decision-making process; advise the Steering Committee about potential outreach methods to achieve needed communication with stakeholders regarding emerging public information issues and plan implementation actions; guide and facilitate aspects of implementation projects to inform and involve the public; interpret the results of information and outreach programs to help determine success or redirection of projects. 1

19 1 CVNHP Relationship to Opportunities for Action T he LCBP has maintained a strong commitment to supporting sustainable recreation and cultural heritage programs since its inception. Providing safe access to cultural and natural resources helps build a sense of stewardship among residents and visitors alike. A strong commitment to developing interpretive materials and programs informs and sustains that stewardship ethic. In order to continue this productive approach, the CVNHP plan is a component of OFA. The next rendition of OFA which will include the approved CVNHP Management Plan will be formatted as an integrated online management plan. This format will clearly link the goals and actions in the plan to implementation progress by all partners. This version of the plan is more responsive and accountable to the public that is concerned about the progress of implementation. Information collected can also be used to support an adaptive management process. Using this approach, the online version of the plan goes beyond a PDF file, which is essentially the same as a printed plan. Although an original document signed and endorsed by the LCBP Steering Committee and NPS will be available, existing website technologies (content management system) will be used to integrate the actions with progress implementation updates. Thus, both plan and progress are linked and easily updated, rather than having separate plans and reports. This transparent system will help evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies employed. The integrated online management plan plan for the CVNHP will: enhance coordination among participants of the CVNHP; engage partners in continual evaluation of efforts to achieve the goals of the plan; increase the transparency of operations for partners and the public; provide easy access to accomplishments for evaluation of the CVNHP. The next rendition of OFA which will include the approved CVNHP Management Plan will be formatted as an integrated online management plan. This format will clearly link the goals and actions in the plan to implementation progress by all partners.

20 Goal: To build on existing knowledge, make new discoveries on the history, culture and special resources of the CVNHP, and make this information accessible to all. Strategic Goals, Objectives and Actions Cultural and Historical Research Provide support to conduct historical and archeological research (where needed) and accelerate the identification, evaluation, protection and interpretation of heritage resources, including ethnographies of the cultures within the CVNHP. The 00th anniversary of Samuel de Champlain s exploration of the region has prompted new research associated with the CVNHP. In 0, archeological surveys of Crown Point State Historic Site unearthed new findings of dwellings associated with French Fort St. Frederick. The Auguste Rodin sculpture La France, which was presented to New York and Vermont for the 0th anniversary of Champlain s 0 exploration and mounted on the Champlain Memorial Lighthouse at Crown Point, has also been researched and carefully restored. The Quadricentennial has been a platform for better understanding of Franco-American and Native American history and culture, lake ecology, and Samuel de Champlain himself. In 0, a partnership led by Vermont Division for Historic Preservation began a project funded by an Institute for Museum and Library Services grant to use a multi-disciplinary approach to look at Lake Champlain and all its peoples from just before Samuel de Champlain s arrival in 0 up to the start of the American Revolution. The project partners included educators in conducting an archeology survey of DAR State Park and the surrounding area. A documentary film, Champlain: The Lake Between, was produced to interpret the findings of the survey and the 1

21 1 history of the Champlain Valley. The LCBP provided funding to create and distribute the Lake Champlain Voyages of Discovery education resource guide to all elementary and secondary schools in the New York and Vermont communities of the Lake Champlain Basin. The guide includes a DVD of the documentary with bonus footage and a CD-Rom with a Classroom Connections guide for the DVD, suggested activities and projects, primary resource material, and other suggested material. Other documentaries, curriculum, museum displays, books and interpretive programs have been developed from existing and new research especially for the Quadricentennial. A lasting legacy of the 00th anniversary will be a better understanding and wider appreciation for the place called Champlain. The CVNHP will continue this work by supporting historical and cultural research and the interpretation of findings of that work. The Partnership will: a) Support historical and archeological research and documentation. b) Support ethnographic research and documentation of the cultures within the CVNHP. c) Utilize new and existing research and documentation to support the evaluation, conservation and interpretation of natural and cultural heritage resources. Possible Key Partners Include: Map of the Richelieu River and Lake Champlain,.

22 Goal: To support the conservation of the historical, archeological, natural and cultural resources of the CVNHP. Manage a Comprehensive Online Heritage Resource Database The LCBP has developed a draft resource database of the organizations and heritage sites within the CVNHP. Databases are useful tools that can be utilized for all areas of study, analysis, evaluation, designation, protection, interpretation, and promotion. Incorporating geographic information system (GIS) technology with the database will increase its usefulness to partners. New York has completed a state-wide GIS database of its cultural and natural heritage resources and Vermont is nearing completion of a similar database. The Partnership will: a) Maintain and update the CVNHP online heritage resource database. b) Assess the compatibility of the New York and Vermont GIS databases. Investigate the availability of similar resources in Quebec. c) Identify, develop and host CVNHP GIS data layers for chosen features. d) Promote the utilization of the resource database and GIS information among partners. Possible Key Partners Include: Conservation of Heritage Resources Develop a Voluntary Stewardship Program to Strengthen Non-regulatory Protection of Cultural and Natural Heritage Resources. The majority of land-based heritage resources within the CVNHP are located on private property. While some regulatory mechanisms protect a small percentage of heritage resources, many organizations, groups, and individuals work to protect heritage resources in informal, voluntary ways. The LCBP Cultural Heritage Technical Assistance Program provided grants of up to 1

23 1 Fisk Quarry, Isle La Motte, VT. $00 to perform stewardship efforts such as archeological assessments, national register nominations, and preservation plans for private properties throughout the basin. More than $,000 was granted from -. Voluntary stewardship programs enhance resource protection through education and technical assistance rather than increased regulation. The Partnership will: a) Inventory existing tax incentives for natural and cultural heritage resource protection on private property and explore the creation of new incentives. b) Increase landowner awareness of non-regulatory protection tools, such as sale of development rights, tax benefits through donating easements, tax credits, barn grants, and other incentive programs. c) Build the stewardship capabilities of nonprofit groups to conserve cultural and natural heritage resources. Possible Key Partners Include: Voluntary stewardship programs enhance resource protection through education and technical assistance rather than increased regulation.

24 While much progress has been made in developing crossborder partnerships prior to the adoption of the CVNHP plan, there remains a lack of comprehensive strategies for protecting cultural and natural heritage resources within the CVNHP. Sailing on Shelburne Bay. Develop and Implement CVNHP-wide Cultural and Natural Heritage Resource Strategies. While much progress has been made in developing cross-border partnerships prior to the adoption of the CVNHP plan, there remains a lack of comprehensive strategies for protecting cultural and natural heritage resources within the CVNHP. The protection of these heritage resources, even within the public domain, is far from comprehensive. The sheer number of stakeholders throughout the CVNHP and the diversity of resources within create challenges for developing and implementing unified management systems and protection strategies. In addition, many heritage resources are privately held and many opt not to participate in any of the management, protective, restorative, or collaborative initiatives made possible through the CVNHP. Voluntary, bi-state management plans for each major category of cultural and natural heritage resources on the interconnected waterways of the CVNHP should focus first on those resources that are particularly threatened. Integrating environmental concerns within these initiatives must be a priority. Efforts by the Partnership to encourage the better management of these resources include: a) Inventory, evaluate and post online the federal, state and local legislation regarding the protection of cultural and natural heritage resources. b) Develop criteria for selecting priority heritage resources and develop consistent strategies for conservation. c) Examine mechanisms for providing technical assistance to landowners, communities, nonprofit organizations, and other resource conservation organizations. Possible Key Partners Include: 1

25 1 Underwater archeologist researching a shipwreck in Lake Champlain. Develop and Implement a Management Strategy for Underwater Cultural Heritage Resources in the CVNHP. The CVNHP contains the best preserved underwater cultural heritage collections in North America. These shipwrecks offer unique opportunities for research, interpretation, heritage tourism, and recreation for current and future generations. However, some of these irreplaceable cultural heritage sites are threatened by overuse by divers, neglect and aquatic invasive species. Zebra mussels, which were discovered in Lake Champlain in and in Lake George in, arrived in the region via the Champlain Canal and are now widespread. According to the report, Zebra Mussels and their Impact on Historic Shipwrecks, these prolific, razor-sharp mollusks can cover historic shipwrecks and artifacts to depths of up to 0 feet. The weight of the mussel colonies can crush wooden shipwrecks. Also, their excrement corrodes the iron fastenings of shipwrecks, causing structures to collapse. Quagga mussels, which have been found in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River, are a similar threat to the underwater artifacts of the CVNHP. However, these mussels are more tolerant of a greater range of temperatures and depths, posing a greater threat to deepwater shipwrecks. Shipwrecks and other underwater archeology sites are invaluable resources and their protection should be highlighted by the CVNHP. The CVNHP contains the best preserved underwater cultural heritage collections in North America. These shipwrecks offer unique opportunities for research, interpretation, heritage tourism, and recreation for current and future generations. However, some of these irreplaceable cultural heritage sites are threatened by overuse by divers, neglect and aquatic invasive species.

26 The canal boats were documented by archaeologists from the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum when the canal was drained during the Superfund cleanup in 0. Courtesy of the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum. Shipwrecks and other underwater archeology sites are invaluable resources and their protection should be highlighted by the CVNHP. The Lake Champlain Underwater Historic Preserve System (LCUHPS) and the Lake George Submerged Heritage Preserve Program (LGHPP) provide access to underwater archeology sites for divers. The Lake Champlain Underwater Historic Preserve System (LCUHPS) and the Lake George Submerged Heritage Preserve Program (LGHPP) provide access to underwater archeology sites for divers. In recent years, tours of shipwrecks using remotely operated vehicles (ROV) in which participants stay dry on board a chartered boat have been provided by private businesses and the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum. Shoreline and web-based interpretation of the wrecks increase public awareness of these resources. These ongoing efforts and expansion of the LCUHPS and LGHPP, including the addition of snorkeling sites, could enhance the connection between the cultural and natural resources and lead to a better understanding of the issues affecting the health of the interconnected waterways of the CVNHP. The Partnership will: a) Continue to survey, document, and evaluate underwater cultural heritage resources. b) Continue to monitor of the impacts of zebra mussels and study the potential impacts of Quagga mussel on shipwrecks. c) Examine the suitability of establishing underwater preserves on the Upper Hudson River, Champlain Canal and Richelieu River. d) Work with the Lake Champlain Aquatic Nuisance Species Rapid Response Team to reduce the risk of Quagga mussel introduction. e) Integrate the results of shipwreck research with other resource studies. f) Make the results of these studies available to the public through a variety of interpretive materials. g) Support a bi-state management approach to the Lake Champlain Underwater Historic Preserve program that includes reasonable public access to appropriate sites as well as enhanced protection, maintenance and operations. Possible Key Partners Include: 1

27 1 Recreation and Accessibility to Resources Support initiatives that promote sustainable recreational activities that feature the natural, cultural, and historical resources in the CVNHP. Recreation and heritage tourism efforts that utilize natural, cultural, and historical resources within the CVNHP must be promoted in an ecologically sustainable manner. The LCBP has supported the work of many partners to create regional, multijurisdictional programs the Lake Champlain Birding Trail, the Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail, the Lake Champlain Underwater Preserve System, Lake Champlain Bikeways, Island Line Trail and Northern Forest Canoe Trail that achieve this overall goal. Emphasis should be placed on supporting these existing programs, while also remaining open to supporting new opportunities. Efforts that are underway, or should be addressed by the Partnership include the following: a) Develop and/or improve natural and cultural heritage interpretative trails using wayside exhibits and other informative media. b) Continue to support regional, multi-jurisdictional programs that promote accessible and sustainable use of resources. c) Continue to develop and maintain the Lake Champlain Underwater Historic Preserve System and the Lake George Submerged Heritage Preserve Program and investigate the creation of a similar system in the Upper Hudson and Richelieu rivers. d) Examine the feasibility of establishing a national historic water trail that connects the resources of the CVNHP, Hudson River National Heritage Area (HRNHA) and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor (ECNHA), similar to the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail. e) Support efforts to link communities by safe, non-motorized transportation routes. f) Develop a comprehensive guide to all types of public access opportunities on the interconnected waterways of the CVNHP, including winter access sites. Goal: To provide sustainable and accessible recreational opportunities for everyone within the CVNHP. Black-capped chickadee, courtesy of Donna Dewhurst, USFWS

28 Public access sites within the CVNHP accommodate both aquatic and terrestrial recreational activities where residents and visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings and cultural resources. LCBP boat launch steward program. g) Encourage the expansion of facilities and services along the interconnected waterways, such as restaurants, lodging, and equipment rentals, in a manner that minimizes impacts on recreational, cultural, natural, and historic resources and that features environmental sustainability. Possible Key Partners Include: Increase and improve public access opportunities to the interconnected waterways of the CVNHP for diverse recreational activities. Public access sites within the CVNHP accommodate both aquatic and terrestrial recreational activities where residents and visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings and cultural resources. Types of public access include boat launch areas, shoreline parks, marinas, beaches, campgrounds, scenic overlooks, fishing piers, and shoreline trails. The objectives concerning public access within the CVNHP are expanding and enhancing these opportunities in a manner that minimizes congestion, user conflicts, and impacts to the natural environment. Problems associated with public access can be caused by conflicts between the various user types. Options for avoiding such conflicts include designing and organizing sites to meet a variety of needs and separating different users by establishing designated use areas. It is also important to provide opportunities for low-income individuals and those with disabilities to take advantage of public access facilities. 1

29 1 Canoeing on the Missisquoi River. At the state level, New York and Vermont will work cooperatively to develop and improve public access opportunities along the interconnected waterways of the CVNHP, particularly in underserved areas. This will include: locating potential sites (on a willing seller basis) for future access (both boating and non-boating); determining priority for potential access sites based on results of recreation studies in progress and municipal priorities; exploring options for funding; and considering public-private partnerships to secure new access through cooperative agreements, conservation easements, and land trusts. The Partnership will assist the states in providing public access in the CVNHP by the following: a) Update and analyze resource inventories to identify gaps in public accessibility along the interconnected waterways of the CVNHP. b) Develop an online CVNHP public access guide. c) Facilitate regional partnerships to manage public access improvements. Possible Key Partners Include: The objectives concerning public access within the CVNHP are expanding and enhancing these opportunities in a manner that minimizes congestion, user conflicts, and impacts to the natural environment.

30 lake champlain bikeways northwest dairyland northwest dairyland six loops of the lake champlain bikeways network in franklin county, vermont franklin county, vermont Bicycling guide produced by Lake Champlain Bikeways distributed through the non-motorized tourism clearinghouse. Support a public information program that emphasizes recreational ethics, public safety, sustainable use and stewardship of cultural and natural resources. With support from the LCBP over the past several years, Lake Champlain Bikeways and the Lake Champlain Birding Trail provide free information to potential visitors to the region. In addition to requested mailings, these groups provide personalized information via telephone; develop brochures, pamphlets and maps; and maintain customer databases. In 0, the LCBP funded the creation of a clearinghouse to distribute information upon request for nonmotorized recreation and heritage tourism activities, such as walking, bicycling, bird watching, paddling and scuba diving. Local Motion s online Trail Finder, which provides free, comprehensive information on trails in Chittenden County, includes user comments, trailhead directions and downloadable maps. The LCBP is supporting the work to determine the feasibility of expanding the Trail Finder beyond Chittenden County to other communities around the lake. An expansion would strengthen linkages to other trails, state and local parks, cultural and natural heritage sites, and to other population centers. In order to support a public information program that emphasizes recreational ethics, public safety, sustainable use and stewardship of resources, the Partnership will: a) Support tourism information centers, marketing organizations and the Nonmotorized Tourism Clearinghouse to coordinate and disseminate information on opportunities for year-round use of recreational, natural, cultural, and historic resources of the CVNHP. b) Continue to support the Non-motorized Tourism Clearinghouse and encourage the inclusion of additional materials for distribution. c) Support the use of new information technology to provide quality information on heritage and recreation resources. 1

31 1 Possible Key Partners Include: Interpretation and Education Connect, Promote and Improve Cultural and Natural Heritage Sites through Interpretation. The LCBP has fostered stewardship of Lake Champlain and its surrounding resources by supporting high-quality interpretation for public education on the environmental issues, history and culture of the Champlain Valley. In 00, a group of planners, tourism representatives, historians, and natural/cultural resource managers determined a need for unified standards and guidelines for interpretive signs in the Champlain region. In response to this need, a group of stakeholders convened to develop an outdoor wayside exhibit template for use by organizations and municipalities: the Lake Champlain Wayside Exhibit Manual. Since its publication, the LCBP has provided free design services to communities and organizations using the template identified in the manual, and provided translation services for bilingual wayside exhibits. This successful program has generated more than new wayside exhibits in the Lake Champlain Basin. The LCBP has provided support for other successful interpretive projects, including dozens of cycling guides and water trails, scores of interpretive talks and tours, and hundreds of interpretive signs. The LCBP also supports utilizing new media for interpretation. In 0, the LCBP partnered with the Lake Champlain Byway Council, Big Heavy Goal: To have a well-informed public that values the unique heritage of the CVNHP. 0 map of New Netherland.

32 Ferry Audio 0. FM Vermont Music! Lake Champlain History! Listen in your car, or borrow a headset, which are available in the gift shop. It s free! Rackcard describing the Lake Champlain ferry audio interpretation program. A limited-range FM radio is used to broadcast short interpretive messages focusing on the rich cultural and natural history of the lake and the environmental challenges it faces. aboard The Adirondack America s oldest ferry World Foundation, Inc., and the Lake Champlain Transportation Company to develop an audio interpretation program for the thousands of visitors and residents that cross the broadest section of Lake Champlain aboard the ferry Adirondack every year. A limited-range FM radio is used to broadcast short interpretive messages focusing on the rich cultural and natural history of the lake and the environmental challenges it faces. These educational programs are interspersed with original music ranging from folk to contemporary from the Champlain Valley. New web-based and multi-media approaches to interpretation are becoming available and utilized within the CVNHP. While MP technology that provides downloadable interpretive programming exists as a useful tool, new smart phone technology offers the opportunity for providing mobile, multi-media interpretation. In order to support existing interpretive techniques and technology that connects, promotes and improves heritage sites within the CVNHP and encourages new technologies, the Partnership will: a) Continue to provide design services for interpretive materials b) Establish a unified, broadly applicable design template for all interpretive materials sponsored by the CVNHP c) Develop and maintain an online interpretive toolkit for the CVNHP d) Support pilot projects that utilize emerging interpretive technologies e) Provide general technical support for interpretation projects f) Support professional development for interpreters Possible Key Partners Include: 1

33 1 Support the use of Interpretive Themes to Link Resources within the CVNHP. The linked navigable waterways of the CVNHP served as a strategic water highway for armed forces, commerce and communication for centuries. The enabling legislation identifies The Making of Nations and Corridors of Commerce the key interpretive themes of the CVNHP. Generally speaking, this plan endorses the Making of Nations theme to represent the cultural aspects of the CVNHP (e.g. military history, traditional farm life, an emerging nation in the early th century, modern civics, etc.) and the Corridor of Commerce theme to represent economic aspects (e.g. landscape change, modern agricultural markets, etc.). The CVNHP interpretive themes provide an overarching context within which the linkages between the cultural and natural resources of the region are appreciated. They are structured broadly to encourage participation by a wide spectrum sites and programs. Collective, thematic linkages among the various resource sites and programs will strengthen a CVNHP sense of place among visitors and residents. Maps, brochures, guides and signage that have a unified design will support this objective. New interpretive content supported by the CVNHP will highlight interpretive connections among related resources. CVNHP Interpretive Themes and Sub-themes Making of Nations Native Histories and Cultures: Algonquin and Iroquois Tribes, Language, Traditions, History A New World: New France, New Netherlands, New England/ New York Corridor of Conflict: Military Campaigns and National Defense Nations Under Construction: A Young America/Quebec/ Canada A Patchwork of People: Various Ethnic Groups and Indigenous Peoples, Arts and Literature, and Religion Conservation Movement: State Parks, Adirondack Park, Green Mountain National Forest, Farm Bureaus, Watershed Associations, Land Trusts Governments at Work (Modern Day): Vermont Town Meetings, NYS County Government and Home Rule, First Nations/Native American Tribes, Quebec perspectives, Property Rights Corridor of Commerce The Natural World: Geology, Water Systems, Flora and Fauna Early Trade: Fur, Weapons, Timber and Potash Agriculture and Resource Extraction: Farming, Quarries, Iron Ore Mining, Forges/Furnaces Canal Era: Politics and Engineering, Boom Years, Decline A Changing Landscape: Forestry, Merino Wool, Dairy Industry Transportation Revolution: Stagecoaches, Steamboats, Railroads, and the Automobile Tourism: Great Camps, Hotels, Amusement Parks, Modern Recreation Modern Markets: Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry, Farmers Markets, Localvore Movement

34 Monument dedication at Isle La Motte, 0. The Partnership will: a) Work with partners to identify site/program interpretive themes and subthemes. b) Support initiatives that highlight the interpretive relationships among stakeholder sites and programs, while supporting the individual character of those sites. Possible Key Partners Include: Promote Cultural Exchanges and International Scholarship Programs. The 0 Quadricentennial of Lake Champlain has encouraged cross-border academic and cultural exchange programs. Academic research in both the Province of Quebec and in France has given New Yorkers and Vermonters a better understanding of the region s history and ethnic heritage. The LCBP encourages transboundary education programs between Canadian and U.S. colleges and universities, secondary and elementary schools. Cultural exchanges between New York, Vermont, Quebec and France that build amity among nations and focus on the shared heritage of the CVNHP should be encouraged. The Partnership will: a) Support research and scholarship focusing on cross-border relationships of New York, Quebec, Vermont, and other nations and cultures that relate to the Making of Nations or Corridor of Commerce interpretive themes. b) Encourage youth cultural/education exchanges. 1

35 1 Replica canal schooner Lois McClure in at Quebec City Quadricentennial, July 0. Possible Key Partners Include: Produce Coordinated Education Programs for Students. The LCBP was a founding member of the Champlain Basin Education Initiative (CBEI), a consortium of environmental education groups throughout the Lake Champlain Basin. The CBEI holds Lake Champlain Basin teaching workshops for K- educators, education majors, and interested citizens. The workshops feature diverse and exciting presentations by local experts on topics such as current events, water quality, fish and wildlife, cultural and natural heritage, and field explorations/monitoring. Since, more than 0 educators have participated in CBEI workshops and forums. The Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Sites, Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation Hudson River Estuary Program, and Hudson River Valley Institute at Marist College recently created the Teaching the Hudson The Roosevelt- Vanderbilt National Historic Sites, Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation Hudson River Estuary Program, and Hudson River Valley Institute at Marist College recently created the Teaching the Hudson Valley website for educators.

36 Samuel de Champlain. Henry Hudson. Valley website for educators. The site provides free lesson plans and activities, maps of more than 0 heritage sites and has an events calendar. In addition to the counties within the HRVNHA, Saratoga, Washington and Warren counties all within the CVNHP are also served by the website. The LCMM developed a multi-disciplinary curriculum for New York and Vermont schools to join in the celebration and emphasize instruction about the history and environment of the lake region specifically for the Quadricentennial. The curriculum, which ranges in topics from geology and habitat to the Native American homeland and European exploration, is available online and can be used beyond 0. The cultural heritage and natural history of the CVNHP are intertwined and this relationship should be an enduring feature of the interpretive themes. To ensure coordination with existing education and outreach organizations continues and new approaches to heritage education are promoted, the CVNHP will support the following: a) Continue to conduct teacher training workshops. b) Develop a comprehensive CVNHP Resource Guide for educators to use in developing teaching units focused on the natural and cultural heritage of the region. c) Use the Internet and other media to share CVNHP data with students and teachers. d) Promote the Teaching the Hudson Valley website and determine if a similar service is needed for the CVNHP. e) Work with state education departments to integrate CVNHP education into classrooms. f) Provide opportunities for teachers and students to participate in CVNHPrelated field trips and restoration projects. g) Provide CVNHP-related presentations to schools. 1

37 1 h) Evaluate the success of education initiatives. i) Provide bus transportation grants to improve school access to heritage sites and events within the CVNHP. Possible Key Partners Include: Coordination, Communication and Capacity Building Foster professional development among CVNHP Stakeholders. The work of the scores of local, regional and state-wide groups that focus on the conservation, enhancement and interpretation of the resources of the CVNHP is the foundation for success. Many of these groups rely on volunteers and have small budgets that limit professional development. The LCBP has provided professional development grants for watershed associations for many years. The mini-grant program provides professional development funds of (up to $00 annually) for the staff and volunteers of qualified watershed organizations in the Lake Champlain Basin to cover expenses such as travel, meals, registration and accommodations at meetings, conferences, workshops, and other venues designed to enhance the organizations capacity to operate. The Essex County (NY) Historical Society combined efforts with the Champlain Valley Heritage Network and Lakes to Locks Passage to secure a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Studies (IMLS) in 0 to fund cultural heritage assistance and training in Goal: To serve as a conduit for information, build professional capacity among stakeholders, and foster strong working relationships among the partners of the CVNHP. Algonquin Couple, th century watercolor. Courtesy of the City of Montreal Records Management & Archives, Montreal, Canada.

38 The Essex County (NY) Historical Society combined efforts with the Champlain Valley Heritage Network and Lakes to Locks Passage to secure a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Studies (IMLS) in 0 to fund cultural heritage assistance and training in museum best practices. museum best practices. The three-year program consists of a series of professional training workshops, roundtables, and mentoring to build sustainability and capacity for the operation of non-profit organizations, community museums and interpretive centers within the CVNHP. The LCBP Watershed Association Professional Development Mini-grant program and the capacity building work of the Essex County Historical Society are successful models for the CVNHP to emulate. The Partnership will: a) Provide a mini-grant program for professional development of heritage and recreation stakeholders. b) Sponsor training for conservation, education, interpretation, marketing, administration and other topics as needed. Possible Key Partners Include: 1 Round Church, Richmond, VT.

39 1 Encourage cooperation and enhance communication among partners within the CVNHP. The CVNHP is fortunate to have an array of local, regional, state-wide, and cross boundary organizations that carry out the collective work identified in this plan. The scope of these partner organizations range from small town historical societies to the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor (ECNHA), which overlaps the CVNHP to the south. The CVNHP has three state scenic byways in Vermont, seven state scenic byways and two national scenic byways in New York one of these, Lakes to Locks Passage, has All American Road designation. These byways are regional designations committed to providing visitors and residents with high-quality experiences as they travel along the corridors. Lakes to Locks Passage is informed by county-based stakeholder groups such as the Champlain Valley Heritage Network of Essex County and the Historic Saratoga-Washington on the Hudson Partnership. The initiative of these groups provides excellent direction and a more localized emphasis on heritage initiatives. Individual organizations have made tremendous impacts on research, interpretation, and marketing the region. Whether the emphasis is on agriculture or archeology, folk-art or fine arts, the American Revolution or Quebec history, local and regional groups must be encouraged to continue to perform their specific functions in order for the CVNHP to thrive. It is essential for these organizations and stakeholder groups to have the opportunity to communicate effectively among themselves and to coordinate their efforts to maximize impact. The CVNHP will support the following steps to attain this goal: a) Convene periodic meetings of organizations and regional stakeholder groups within CVNHP. b) Provide translation services for meetings among partners from the U.S. and Quebec as needed. Great Blue Heron, courtesy of Gary Kramer, USFWS

40 Goal: To coordinate efforts among partners to promote the CVNHP as a world class destination for heritage travelers. The LCBP Resource Room within the ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center at the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain received more than 0,000 visitors in its first five years. c) Develop an enhanced website that includes a calendar of events, topic forums and other tools. d) Publish a biannual newsletter highlighting best practices among CVNHP partners, funding opportunities, updates, etc. e) Support the establishment, or continuing success, of regional stakeholder groups. f) Communicate regularly with adjoining national heritage areas. Possible Key Partners Include: Marketing the CVNHP Develop and maintain a consistent regional brand related to the interpretive themes of the CVNHP. There are many positive marketing efforts underway within the CVNHP, including widespread use of the LCBP wayside exhibit template, free guides and brochures, and interpretive centers that provide information to visitors. The LCBP Resource Room within the ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center at the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain received more than 0,000 visitors in its first five years. Many of these people are interested in places to visit in the Champlain Valley. With the historical sites, natural areas, and cultural attractions, it is very easy for visitors to have high-quality experiences within the CVNHP, but no single entity serves the entire region for visitor information and interpretation. A coordinated effort that links the various visitor centers and interpretive sites within the CVNHP could greatly benefit stakeholders, residents and guests. Designing a process to encourage voluntary inclusion of these sites will be integral in developing a regional brand for the CVNHP. However, this brand should not overshadow the efforts of local, regional or state/provincial entities. The partnership approach to 1 0

41 1 On July, 0, over 00 people gathered on Isle La Motte for the closing events of the week-long Tercentenary Celebration of the discovery of Lake Champlain. Courtesy of Saint Michael s College Archives. management and implementation should be the core of the brand and marketing materials developed by the CVNHP. A multi-step approach to developing a brand that best illustrates the themes and regions of the CVNHP will be undertaken over the next three years. The Partnership will: a) Develop a template and design manual for maps, brochures, guides and interpretive signs for the CVNHP that is based on the LCBP Wayside Exhibit design and provide free design services to organizations willing to use the templates. b) Inventory existing local, regional and state/provincial marketing efforts. c) Convene a group of stakeholders to determine approaches to branding/ marketing the CVNHP. d) Develop a marketing plan for the CVNHP. Utilize the CVNHP website to promote the region. The CVNHP website was created in 0 to announce grant opportunities, promote upcoming heritage events/programs, and inform the public on the CVNHP management plan planning process. The site is located on the LCBP website. The internet has become the primary source of tourism information for individuals researching travel destinations. The Partnership will: A coordinated effort that links the various visitor centers and interpretive sites within the CVNHP could greatly benefit stakeholders, residents and guests. Designing a process to encourage voluntary inclusion of these sites will be integral in developing a regional brand for the CVNHP. 1

42 N Lake Champlain s Water Trails/Pistes navigables du lac Champlain Chambly Canal Québec Canada United States New York Vermont You Are Here Swanton Champlain Canal Discover the diverse landscapes and communities of the Northeast by water. The Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail The Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail invites paddling adventures by linking overnight and day-use locations along Lake Champlain s shorelines and islands. The Trail system includes a wide range of sites from secluded, primitive camping to campgrounds with public facilities. The Northern Forest Canoe Trail The Northern Forest Canoe Trail is a 0-mile recreational water trail based on traditional Native American travel routes in the region. The Trail has sections suitable for beginners, experts, canoeists, and kayakers for day trips, overnights, or longer adventures. Help Build the Trail Systems The Lake Champlain Committee (LCC) is a nonprofit, membership-based organization dedicated to protecting Lake Champlain s environmental and recreational resources for this and future generations. LCC is the home organization for the Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail and publishes an annual Trail guidebook available to members. The Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Inc. (NFCT) is a nonprofit, membershipbased organization working with local volunteers to manage the route as a living reminder and celebration of the heritage of the Northern Forest. A Recreational Corridor - A recreational corridor for human-powered craft with day use and overnight opportunities at primitive campsites, state parks, and quiet villages. Un corridor récréatif - Une voie récréative pour les embarcations à propulsion humaine offrant des possibilités d excusions d un jour ou de séjours comprenant une nuitée dans des campings primitifs, des parcs nationaux et des villages paisibles. Bi-lingual wayside exhibit installed at Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge. On the evening of May,, three weeks after the first shots of the American Revolution were fired at Lexington and Concord, 0 Green Mountain Boys assembled in a ravine near Hand s Cove. Under the command of Ethan Allen, they intended to seize the strategic outpost of Fort Ticonderoga and its valuable store of heavy cannon essential to the rebel American goal of forcing the British army to evacuate Boston. At the last minute, Benedict Arnold arrived with a competing claim to leadership of the planned attack. Following a heated dispute, the two leaders reached a compromise, agreeing to share joint command. The Green Mountain Boys could find only a scow and a large rowboat to move the men across the lake from Hand s Cove to the Fort; only men had managed to cross before daybreak threatened to reveal the surprise attack. Rather than wait any longer, the two commanders decided to press on. Fifty British regulars garrisoned dilapidated Fort Ticonderoga. The rebels quickly overcame the single sentry who challenged their approach. The Green Mountain Boys swarmed into the Fort, seizing the Gibraltar of the North without firing a shot. When Ethan Allen confronted the Fort s commandant, Captain William Delaplace, Allen was asked by whose authority he had entered his Majesty s Fort. Allen later claimed to have replied: In the name of the Great Jehovah and the Continental Congress. Losque Ethan Allen a confronté le commandant du Fort, le capitaine William Delaplace, ce dernier demanda à Allen par quelle autorité il était entré dans le fort de sa Majesté. Allen a prétendu, par après, avoir répondu : En le nom du Grand Jéhovah et du Congrès Continental. Ethan Allen s route,. L itinéraire d'ethan Allen en. A 0-mile Historic Waterway The lakes and rivers of the NFCT connect deep forests, working farmlands, and village centers. Once the highways and routes of communication, these waterways are being rediscovered by paddlers. Une voie navigable historique de km Les lacs et les rivières de la forêt du Nord relient de denses boisés, des exploitations agricoles et de jolis villages. Autoroutes et voies de communication d autrefois, ces voies navigables sont aujourd hui redécouvertes par les pagayeurs. a) Develop an enhanced website that promotes the region as a whole while encouraging users to visit existing stakeholder websites for more detailed information. b) Encourage the development of new website technologies for use on the CVNHP and stakeholder websites. Experience Lake Champlain - Take a few weeks or a lifetime to explore the wonders of Lake Champlain s cedar-lined cliffs, hidden bays, sandy beaches, and open water. Photo courtesy of Kira Winslow. Faites l expérience du lac Champlain - Prenez quelques semaines ou pourquoi pas toute une vie pour explorer les merveilles que vous réservent les falaises couvertes de cèdres, les petites baies secrètes, les plages sablonneuses et les eaux navigables du lac Champlain. Photo : courtoisie de Kira Winslow. Fort Ticonderoga and nearby Mount Independence became the strategic cockpit of rebellion during the first years of the Revolution. After repelling a British advance in, the Americans retreated in July before the overwhelming forces of General John Burgoyne, who eventually met defeat at Saratoga, New York. Le fort Ticonderoga et le mont Indépendence sont devenus des points stratégiques de la rébellion pendant les premières années de la Révolution. Après avoir Américains ont retraité en juillet devant les forces accablantes du Général John Burgoyne, qui ont par la suite rencontré la défaite à Saratoga, New York. Experience the Northern Forest Paddling the entire NFCT takes - weeks and requires flatwater and white-water strokes, lining, poling, and portaging. Photo courtesy of Rob Center. Faites l expérience de la forêt du Nord - Pour pagayer sur toute la longueur de la piste de la forêt du Nord, il faut compter de à semaines. L excursion exige de savoir ramer en eaux calmes et en eaux vives, et de maîtriser la cordelle, la poussée et le portage. Photo : courtoisie de Rob Center. General Burgoyne s army included 00 German troops under the command of Major General Frederick von Riedesel. On July -,, these forces advanced southward on the east (Vermont) side of Lake Champlain. They hauled a battery of four six-pounder artillery pieces manned by troops from Hesse-Hanau. L'armée du Général Burgoyne comptait 00 soldats allemands sous le commandement du Général Frederick von Riedesel. Entre les et juillet,, ces troupes se déplacent vers le sud du côté est (Vermont) du lac Champlain. Elles transportaient une batterie de quatre canons de boulets de six livres équipés pilotés par la troupe de Hesse-Hanau. Découvrez les divers paysages et villages du Nord-est par la voie des eaux. America s First Victory /1ère victoire américaine Chambly Canal Québec Canada United States New York Vermont You Are Here Shoreham Champlain Canal Lake Champlain Bikeways, Inc. Bi-lingual wayside exhibit installed in Shoreham, VT. Images courtesy of Fort Ticonderoga Museum. Les images sont une courtoisie du musée du Fort Ticonderoga. La piste des pagayeurs du lac Champlain La piste des pagayeurs du lac Champlain invite à des aventures prenant la forme d excursions d un jour de séjours comprenant une nuitée dans des établissements situés le long des berges du lac Champlain et sur certaines îles du lac. Le réseau de pistes comprend une vaste gamme de sites depuis les campings les plus sauvages aux terrains aménagés offrant tous les services publics. La piste de canoë de la forêt du Nord La piste de canoë de la forêt du Nord est une piste navigable récréative longue de presque 00 km retraçant les routes qu empruntaient traditionnellement les autochtones d Amérique dans la région. La piste comporte des parcours convenant autant aux canoéistes débutants qu aux experts, ainsi qu aux kayakistes. Tous peuvent y faire des excursions d un jour, d un jour et d une nuitée, ou encore plus longues. Soutenez les réseaux de pistes navigables Le Comité du lac Champlain (CLC) est un organisme sans but lucratif avec membres, dédié à la protection des ressources écologiques et récréatives du lac Champlain pour les générations présentes et futures. Le CLC est organisme à l origine de la poste des pagayeurs du lac Champlain et il publie un guide annuel des pistes à l intention des membres. La piste de canoë de la forêt du Nord inc. (PCFN) est un groupe de pression sans but lucratif collaborant avec les bénévoles locaux à la gestion de la route en tant que rappel vivant du patrimoine de la forêt du nord et qu hommage vibrant à cette ressource. Dans la soirée du mai, trois semaines après le début de ce qui deviendra la Révolution Américaine, 0 Green Mountain Boys, rassemblés dans un ravin près de Hand s Cove sont attaqués. Ils établirent, sous le commandement de Ethan Allan, de prendre l avant poste du Fort Ticonderoga et leur réserve de canons lourds essentiels aux objectifs rebelles américains de forcer l'armée britannique à évacuer Boston. À la dernière minute, Benedict Arnold est arrivé avec une réclamation de concurrence à la conduite de l'attaque prévue. Suivant de âpres discussions, les deux hommes parvinrent à un compromis, soit un commandement commun. Les Green Mountain Boys n avaient qu un chaland et une grande chaloupe pour déplacer les hommes sur le lac séparant Hand s Cove du Fort. Au lever du jour, seulement hommes étaient parvenus sur l autre rive menaçant ainsi l'attaque surprise. Plutôt qu'attendre plus longtemps, les deux commandants décident de passer à l action. Cinquante militaires britanniques cantonnés au Fort Ticonderoga ont abandonnés le Fort. Les rebelles ont rapidement surmonté l unique sentinelle à les défier. Les Green Mountain Boys envahissent le Fort, saisissant le Gibraltar of the North, sans qu aucun coup de feu soit tiré. Support the development of bilingual materials, interpretation and services. The LCBP has provided support for the translation of many English documents. Dozens of wayside exhibits, several Lake Champlain Bikeways interpretive guides, and the entire OFA document have been translated into French. The LCBPsponsored trip of the replica canal schooner, Lois McClure, featured an English/French souvenir booklet and a bi-lingual National Park Service interpretive ranger. Efforts to overcome language issues are productive in that they encourage French-speaking travelers to visit the region, that they help build a stewardship ethic among the Frenchspeaking residents of the CVNHP, and create a shared sense-of-place among Francophone visitors from the Richelieu Valley. The Partnership will: a) Support bi-lingual interpretation of resources within the CVNHP. b) Support teaching French to stakeholder staff, including service industry staff. 1

43 1 This was the passageway, and here were fought the battles contended for two centuries, and as we may now say, never to recur. --President William Howard Taft The American Fleet at Missisquoi Bay during the War of, approximately miles north of Burlington. Tyler s Farm, Missisquoi Bay Near Highgate from Vermont: An Illustrated History. Courtesy of the Shelburne Museum.

44 Notes

45 Notes

46 Lake Champlain Basin Program West Shore Rd. Grand Isle, VT 0 0..,