There's A New National Water Trail In Indiana

KANKAKEE, Ill. (AP) — A website has been created to encourage exploration of a new national water trail in Indiana and Illinois.

Last week's designation of the 133-mile Kankakee River Water Trail in northwestern Indiana and northeastern Illinois stemmed from efforts of the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association.

In Illinois, The (Kankakee) Daily Journal reports the national designation may lead to boat launches, campgrounds and a portage service around dams at Kankakee and Wilmington. A Boy Scout troop is helping with public service projects along the waterway.

Economic development leaders are hailing the news. Tim Nugent is president of the Economic Alliance of Kankakee County in Illinois. He says the region's leaders must take advantage of the national water trail to promote tourism.