Project Description

With funding from the Wildlife Conservation and Restoration Act Program, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation has launched a project to develop a trail throughout Western Oklahoma for people to visit special places where they can see the many species of wildlife that visit or inhabit the region. More than 800 species of wildlife can be found in Oklahoma throughout the year and the Great Plains Trail of Oklahoma will provide a guide to viewing many of these species.

Local wildlife enthusiasts are being recruited to contribute site nominations, historical and current species sightings and the names of local tour guides. Local chambers of commerce and businesses are being recruited to provide advertising, funding and support services. Local government is being encouraged to protect open space, support legislation to enhance ecotourism and provide toilets, drinking water, parking and access to desirable sites. What role would YOU like to play?

Individuals, birding clubs, tourism businesses and other interested parties are invited to nominate potentially desirable sites in their area. Conservation clubs, chambers of commerce, local business owners, town governments and others also are invited to adopt selected sites of their choosing, contribute funds and offer support services.

You or your organization can be a part of this effort to connect communities, conservation and commerce in Oklahoma. Please email Melynda Hickman of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (mhickman@odwc.state.ok.us) or Mary Jeanne Packer of Fermata (mjpacker@fermatainc.com) for more details.

Timeline

22 August 2002 – Conduct prelinimary stakeholder meeting in Woodward

September 2002 – Begin receiving site nominations

23-27 September 2002 – Stakeholder meetings held throughout western Oklahoma

Great Plains Trail of Oklahoma Site Selection Criteria

• Abundance, diversity or richness of wildlife species and other natural attractions
• Visitation will not negatively impact the natural or cultural resources of a site
• Public has safe access to the site
• Access may be arranged through public ownership or willing private owners
• Visitor amenities and support services are present, planned or nearby
• Site has local partners or sponsors to help with management and maintenance
• Tourism infrastructure (dining, lodging, etc.) nearby
• Geographic distribution/dispersal

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