January/February 2009 What’s Inside: A Bright New Year...... 2 Coming & Going...... 2 Our Native Pathways Meetings The Three Core Elements Series A Success...... 3 Roadside Assistance...... 10 of Byway Sustainability Keeping “Scenic” In Our Scenic Byway: The Frontier Pathways’ Scenic Conservation Planning H Intrinsic Qualities H Visitor Experience Workshop...... 12 Calendar...... 16 he National Scenic Byways come up against the big question: others, the stability of the stool Program is a dynamic, “Now what? How do we keep is compromised. Similarly, a byway T grassroots program, based this going?” that is unbalanced in any of upon the shared vision and efforts these three areas has weaknesses What supports the of partners to protect, preserve, that affect the byway’s stability “sustainability” of byways? promote and enhance the intrinsic or health. qualities and resources of their The sustainability of byways and The development of strong special roads. But what is it that byway organizations around the partnerships and successful makes byways sustainable? What country is critical to long-term planning efforts to support is necessary to support lasting success. Think of a sustainable byways can be measured in efforts of a byway organization? byway as a three-legged stool, direct correlation to a byway Byway groups work hard to with the legs representing organization’s attention to these obtain designation at the State, planning, intrinsic qualities and core elements that are essential Federal lands, Indian tribe, or visitor experience. If any leg of to a byway’s sustainability. national level, often to next the stool is weaker than the Core Elements and the Interim Policy

Published in cooperation Planning, intrinsic qualities with the Federal Highway and visitor experience are the Administration by: Byway core elements that make up the foundation of the National America’s Byways Sustainability Scenic Byways Program. These Resource Center 394 Lake Avenue South three core elements are drawn Suite 600 from the Interim Policy for Duluth, MN 55802 the Program, published in the Federal Register in 1995. The 1-866-974-6403 Interim Policy is the principal www.bywaysresourcecenter.org policy guiding the National Scenic Byways Program, and sets forth the criteria for the designation of roads as National Scenic Byways or All-American Planning Roads based upon their scenic, America’s Byways Resource Center is a division of historic, recreational, cultural, the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission

(ARDC) in partnership with the Federal Highway archaeological and/or natural

e nc ie r e p x E or it s Administration (FHWA). Vi intrinsic qualities, and establishes This material is based upon work supported by the Federal Highway Administration and Arrowhead the 14 points necessary to address Regional Development Commission under In t r i ns c Qu al itie s in a corridor management plan. cooperative agreement No. DTFH61-08-H-00007. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or The policy also emphasizes recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the Author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Federal Highway Administration and/ or Arrowhead Regional Development Commission. The Three Core Elements of Byway Sustainability continues on page 4 A Bright New Year Message from Gary Jensen, Team Leader, National Scenic Byways Program

“Here’s to the bright New Year, and a fond farewell to the old; here’s to the things that are yet to come, and to the memories that we hold.” – Anonymous

t’s hard to believe that another corridor Native People have year has come and gone already. navigated for centuries, 2008 IFortunately, I have a lot of fond grant applications demonstrated memories of the past year, and the strong commitment, have had some new and exciting imagination and organization experiences on America’s Byways®. of the byway community. Whether it was gold mines and We are looking forward to a breathtaking mountains along bright New Year and we have the Gold Belt Tour and Frontier a lot of great opportunities to Pathways in Colorado, a historic come, including: theater along Historic Route 66 in Albuquerque, or the history and The designation of another majesty of the Mississippi River round of All-American Roads and along the Great River Road in Iowa National Scenic Byways. We look and Illinois, my journey with the forward to recognizing the stories And, of course, I am extremely work hard to support the National Scenic Byways Program and significant intrinsic qualities excited about the 2009 National communities that make has been interesting, enlightening of byways that will enhance the Scenic Byways Conference in the Program so successful. and fulfilling. America’s Byways collection. Denver. The backdrop of the Although the challenges of the The past year allowed us to The development of new tools by Colorado Front Range and the reauthorization of the Program review unique and innovative the America’s Byways Resource hard work of our hosts and the lie ahead, I am confident that grant proposals that advance Center that will assist the byway America’s Byways Resource Center the passion and commitment the preservation, protection and community in areas such as should really allow us to elevate of the byway community will promotion of some real American analyzing economic impacts, our expertise. I look forward to the continue, and that there really treasures. From protecting the wayshowing and public awareness. opportunity to finally meet many are great things to come for critical habitat of endangered of you face to face. America’s Byways. H Another year of increased grant species to enhancing cultural funding for fiscal year 2009, up The National Scenic Byways learning opportunities along a to $43.5 million. Program team will continue to

Coming & Going

Moving On, But Not Away… Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, program. I have admired the Bonnie Hundrieser, a former Colorado, Utah, Arizona, vision and dedication of local Byways Specialist with the and New Mexico. Reflecting citizens and partner agencies America’s Byways Resource on her experience at the working together. I’d like to Center, has moved on to a new Resource Center, Bonnie said, say thank you to all who shared position as a Regional Planner “Throughout my work with their special places and stories with the Arrowhead Regional byways, I have continuously with me.” Development Commission in been moved and inspired by For information on Duluth, Minnesota. The move the passion and commitment contacting your Byways allows her to continue working of byway members working Specialist, visit our Contacts with byways located in the together to protect and share page at: bywaysresourcecenter. State’s northeastern region. the places that they care about. org, and click Staff State I’m grateful for the opportunities Previously, Bonnie had worked Assignments below the I have had to get to know so individual staff listing. H with State coordinators and many special people—true, byways in Minnesota, Iowa, grassroots leaders that are the Bonnie Hundrieser Missouri, North Dakota, South energy behind what drives this

2 Our Native Pathways Meetings Series A Success uring 2008, the America’s Byways Resource Center Dpartnered with the Bureau of Indian Affairs Reservation Roads program to provide Indian tribe governments with an over- view of the economic and other opportunities available under the National Scenic Byways Program. The Resource Center coordinated with numerous organizations to develop a three-meeting series for Indian tribes titled Our Native Pathways: Byway Opportunities for Indian Tribes. The meetings were held in Portland, Oregon; Nashville Tennessee; and San Diego, California. Our partners in developing and hosting the Naat’sis’aan Scenic Road, Navajo Nation, in Page, Arizona meetings included the Bureau of Nez Perce Tribe Indian Affairs, United South and with a general overview of Oleksa, a renowned expert on Eastern Tribes, Affiliated Tribes the National Scenic Byways cross-cultural communication, Pechanga Tribe of Northwest Indians, National Program. Cindi Ptak, National focusing on the intricacies Pit River Indian Tribe Indian Justice Center-Tribal Scenic Byways Program Manager Indian tribes face when trying Poarch Creek Indians with the Federal Highway to communicate with others Technical Assistance program, Pueblo of Pojoaque Eastern Washington University’s Administration, provided outside one’s culture. participants with details of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Northwest Tribal Technical The Our Native Pathways National Scenic Byways Program, Redwood Valley Rancheria Assistance Program, and Michigan project was a successful first step including the nomination and Salt River Pima-Maricopa Technological University’s Tribal in outreach and networking with designation process as well as Indian Community Technical Assistance Program. Indian tribes. Approximately 30 grant opportunities available to The Resource Center also Indian tribes were represented at Seminole Tribe of Florida Indian tribes. Mark Conley and coordinated with numerous the three meetings, such as: Skokomish Indian Tribe State scenic byway programs, Floyd Thompson (USDA Forest Squaxin Island Indian Tribe Big Pine Paiute Tribe of Federal byway program staff and Service), along with Ed Hall (Bureau of Indian Affairs), Owens Valley Tule River Tribe the America’s Byways Resource Wyandotte Nation Center’s Advisory Committee. discussed the various Federal Bishop Paiute Tribe tribal byway partnership Central Council of Haida Yurok Tribe Each of the Our Native Pathways opportunities for Indian tribes on & Tlingit Indians The Resource Center will meetings provided Indian tribes Indian reservations and Federal Cherokee La Jolla Indian Tribe continue its partnership with lands. The Resource Center’s Colorado River Tribes the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Byways Specialists Kathie Knapp, Confederated Bands of the others to assist Indian tribes in Bonnie Hundrieser, Dennis Yakama Nation accessing information about Adams and Curt Pianalto provided scenic byways. As part of the an overview of the Resource Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Resource Center’s 2009 activities, Center’s many technical and we are working with the Bureau training resources available Coquille Tribe of Indian Affairs to host a number to Indian tribes. Two tribal Creek Nation of additional Our Native Pathways representatives, Pamela Ternes, Dry Creek Rancheria meetings for Indian tribes in Director of the Standing Rock Eastern Band of Cherokee Oklahoma, the Northern Plains Native American Scenic Byway Ely Shohsone and Alaska. Finally, as Indian and Standing Rock Transit Karuk Tribe tribes begin to develop scenic Program-Sitting Bull College, and byway programs and participate Verginia Yazzie, Coordinator of Lone Pine Paiute/Shoshone Reservation in the planning for scenic byways the Navajo Nation Scenic Byway near their reservations, the Program, discussed their byway Makah Indian Nation Resource Center will work toward experiences with their respective Metlakatla Indian Community providing the technical support Indian tribes. The meetings Mewapa Tribe and training necessary to enhance concluded with an interactive Mohawk Nation their efforts. H Navajo Route 64 discussion with Dr. Father Michael Navajo Nation

3 The Three Core Elements of Byway Sustainability continued from page 1

the necessity of byways to visitor experience. Successful support a visitor’s experience Two places to see the Interim Policy online: marketing includes promoting in positive ways. your byway to target audiences. Byway organizations need to gain Each of the three core elements is • National Scenic Byways Online website insight on this broad topic to multi-faceted yet interdependent. http://www.bywaysonline.org/program/ effectively communicate specific Following is an overview of the (lower right margin) messages to their current and essential aspects that each of the potential visitors. three core elements addresses. • Byways Resource Center website Planning http://www.bywaysresourcecenter.org/topics/ Resource Center corridor-management/planning/tools/578/ Corridor Management Specialists: A corridor management plan Helping Byways (CMP) is a written document Intrinsic Qualities and communicate the importance that outlines how a byway of those resources to the Work Toward organization plans to protect, Inventory And Assessment individuals and groups that have promote, enhance and manage Intrinsic qualities arise from a an immediate and future impact Sustainability the intrinsic qualities of its byway. particular combination of on the byways’ character. The America’s Byways Resource A byway’s CMP acts as the guiding resources along a byway that Center works to provide document for all efforts of the together define its character, Visitor Experience designated byways with the byway group and as a key element interest and appeal. A byway Wayshowing training, education and resources in all planning. A corridor organization must be able to Wayfinding is what visitors do, that they need to succeed and management plan is required identify, inventory and assess build sustainable byways. One if pursuing designation as a and wayshowing is what your the intrinsic qualities that are byway or byway organization of the ways in which we do National Scenic Byway or representative of the route. A this is through providing All-American Road. needs to do. Can visitors byway organization must prove the effectively find their way along one-on-one byway assistance. Organization regional or national significance your byway? They will, if you first Byways Specialists from the of the intrinsic qualities for provide a well-planned guidance Resource Center, currently a The National Scenic Byways designation as a National Scenic team of four knowledgeable Program is founded upon the system based upon wayshowing Byway or All-American Road. principles to show the way. Byway staff members, provide tailored grassroots strength of individual and responsive service to the The Byway Story organizations need to plan for byway leaders and their groups. nationally designated byways, Organizing a byway and, further, A byway story is the intentional, how to safely and effectively guide the byway traveler to a positive State byway programs and sustaining a byway organization coordinated message that the Indian tribes across the country. include important planning byway conveys to visitors to help experience with signage, maps elements of: them make connections with the and other means. • envisioning an ordered whole resources and qualities that the Accessibility Together, FHWA program byway promotes. What byway • pulling people together About one out of every five staff and Resource story can be formed from your Americans has a functional • giving the organization Center Byways Specialists inventory of intrinsic qualities impairment that limits daily life structure and order to frame what a visitor could activities and two out of seven work to deliver consistent • seeking united action experience along your route? families are affected by disability. A byway organization must messages about the core Byways need to develop and Compliance with Federal consider how to best interpret accessibility mandates is essential elements of the Program maintain strong, resilient, the resources and provide visitors long-lived organizations made for byways that use National as they communicate with with opportunities to experience Scenic Byways Program grant up of people who are active the special intrinsic qualities and assist byways across proponents for byways. funds, and applying universal and resources that make the design will increase accessibility the country. Funding route unique. for all people touring your Building a solid financial Protection And Promotion route. Byway groups need to Over the past two years, Byways foundation is an important goal The National Scenic Byways consider how travelers of many Specialists have actively increased for all byways, and an important Program is based upon a balanced different abilities will experience their interaction with byway aspect of planning for byway approach of protection and the intrinsic qualities of the customers, State coordinators and organizations. Fundraising success promotion of the intrinsic qualities routes, and incorporate those partner groups. Byways Specialists is directly linked to other success and resources of America’s most considerations into the planning. realize they are most effective in factors: a clear vision, a healthy treasured roads. Byways deliver Marketing solidifying and sustaining strong organization, active partnerships an experience of all the parts and byway relationships when they and sound planning. Byway groups Authentic experiences, event stories in the corridor. Byway planning, marketing plans, frequently communicate and meet need to make and implement organizations need to learn to with clients. Byways Specialists effective, long-term funding collateral materials and itineraries identify the core character of the all play distinctive and vital roles can be found on the road several plans and promote those plans byway, inventory its resources times a month, making those to potential funders. in providing access to your byway

The Three Core Elements of Byway Sustainability continues on page 5 4 The Three Core Elements of Byway Sustainability continued from page 4

Byways Specialist Bonnie Hundrieser facilitating a workshop on Byway Sustainability with the Colorado – Trail of the Ancients byway organization. personalized connections and and Program staff at the Federal several months, focusing on feel that their road displays many providing customized service. Highway Administration work the message of the three core or all of these intrinsic qualities; to infuse the message of the elements of byway sustainability. however, the Program encourages Together, FHWA program staff three core elements into all byway providers to focus on only and Resource Center Byway Core Element #1: of the materials they prepare. the one or two qualities that are Specialists work to deliver Intrinsic Qualities Sustainability of byways through most representative and regionally consistent messages about the committed public support is a an The Interim Policy for the significant for their areas. With the core elements of the Program overarching Program element that National Scenic Byways Program limited time and resources most as they communicate with and encompasses all of these efforts. established six intrinsic qualities byways face in their day-to-day assist byways across the country. as the fundamental building activities, planning efforts are best The services and training offered Take a look at a few ways blocks of a byway’s designation— served when a focus is kept on by the Resource Center support Byways Specialists have delivered archaeological, cultural, historic, those qualities and resources that the three core elements of the high-quality training to the natural, recreational and scenic. are most distinctive for their road. National Scenic Byways Program, byways community over the last Often, passionate byway advocates

The Interim Policy for the National Scenic Byways Program established six intrinsic qualities as the fundamental building blocks of a byway’s designation—archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic.

The Three Core Elements of Byway Sustainability continues on page 6 5 The Three Core Elements of Byway Sustainability continued from page 5

Byways Specialists’ that each volunteer byway group byway leaders and helped them learning how important it is has a minimum level of staff to build an understanding of the to carefully read the policy Service: Iowa’s support, the RC&Ds help to essential Program core elements. definitions and to understand provide insight on networking A special focus of the day was them before beginning an Byways CMP opportunities with partners in on understanding a byway’s assessment of the existing sites Workshop their respective regions. They intrinsic qualities. They began by along a road that represent the also provide planning support asking the group of new byway selected intrinsic quality of their In July 2008, Byways Specialists and advice on grant opportunities participants to carefully read and byway. Participants also came from the Resource Center available that would reinforce the understand definitions of the to appreciate the importance of provided a day of training on mission of the each byway group. intrinsic qualities as stated in the evaluating the qualities evident corridor management planning Participants who attended the Interim Policy. Using small group from the byway roadway and to the statewide Iowa’s Byways workshop were planners from each discussions, participants were then not a larger corridor. Additional planning group. Iowa is addressing of the RC&Ds whose service area asked to evaluate a series of photos emphasis throughout the day was the sustainability of its byways included a designated Iowa byway. representative of byways across not only on the “nuts and bolts” by contracting with the Iowa the country and label each as of what a CMP should include as Byways Specialists Kathie Resource, Conservation, and representing one of the six specified by the Interim Policy, Knapp and Bonnie Hundrieser Development (RC&D) offices, intrinsic qualities. Participants but also considerations of assuring developed a six-hour training which are affiliated with the found value in this exercise by a positive visitor experience. The USDA. Using State funds so course that engaged the RC&D

The Interim Policy for the National Scenic Byways Program establishes planning as a key component in the development of sustainable byways.

Colorado TOTA Byway Leader Susan Thomas considers possible future action items for her byway.

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Resource Center is continuing to work with the Iowa’s Byways program for future trainings. Core Element #2: Planning The Interim Policy for the National Scenic Byways Program establishes planning as a key component in the development of sustainable byways. This is emphasized in the requirement of a corridor management plan for national designation, and also in the planning considerations related to developing strong community support, obtaining funding and supporting the visitor’s experience (i.e., byway signage). Byways Specialists continue to reinforce the message that a byway’s planning documents Trail of the Ancients workshop participants Verginia Yazzie from the Navajo Nation and Jim Dietrich from Colorado brainstorm together should each be unique and on byway sustainability. developed to meet the needs of an individual byway. Planning documents such as CMPs strategic planning efforts, organization. The Copper Country spectrum spanning from should be crafted to fit the specifically in working to engage Trail NSB created lists totaling communication-only to needs and issues and resources or all potential partners and over 100 potential stakeholders full-blown leadership of partnerships that exist at a local stakeholders in a byway’s region. and partners. But all of these the organization level. It is important to remember As part of larger strategic planning potential stakeholders and This can be a very useful tool for that no one is going to judge efforts in each case, Curt led the partners couldn’t possibly be any organization regardless of the quality of a byway’s plan, so Copper Country National Scenic part of the formal organization, its status. In the case of Copper long as it meets local needs. As Byway and the Illinois River of course. This is where the matrix Country, the group members are outlined in the Interim Policy Road National Scenic Byway tool comes in handy, helping reflecting upon their current for the National Scenic Byways through a brainstorming activity the organization to quickly assess: structure, and using the tool to Program, designation as a in which the groups created a long • Whether that stakeholder possibly reorganize. Now, this National Scenic Byway requires list of existing, potential and, in is currently engaged with is not a one-time exercise. This that corridor management some cases, unlikely partners and the organization planning tool creates a long-term plans include information on stakeholders. The brainstormed and ongoing commitment and 14 points outlined in the Interim lists were then clustered into • Whether that stakeholder has effort to engage stakeholders. Policy, with an additional three like groups. values and a vision that mesh points for designation as an with the organization’s Core Element #3: The creation of a clustered list is All-American Road. Visitor Experience just the beginning. By entering • Whether that stakeholder Byways Specialist Curt Pianalto these lists into the organization can mutually benefit The Interim Policy for the has recently engaged two byways matrix tool, an organization can the organization National Scenic Byways Program look at each of these stakeholders establishes a focus on the visitor with an exercise and subsequent • How this stakeholder could and identify how and if they experience, as illustrated by an tool that highlights and enables or should be involved with could be engaged with the emphasis on good wayfinding the possibilities of continued the organization, using a

The Interim Policy for the National Scenic Byways Program establishes a focus on the visitor experience, as illustrated by an emphasis on good wayfinding signage, attention to visitor accessibility and strategic marketing that helps visitors know what to plan for and expect.

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signage, attention to visitor as travelers on an unfamiliar road accessibility and strategic is a useful way of helping folks see This is an example of a layperson’s summary of what is needed marketing that helps visitors traveler needs. It is also useful to for a successful byway experience. know what to plan for and expect. examine the policy statements Byways are designated not only to about planning by asking Successful byway travel translates to: help protect the special character what is missing to fully engage H I know exactly where to start and where I’m going and resources of a particular area, the traveler. to end, but also to promote and share Leaders of the Flaming those resources with others who H I never make a wrong turn, Gorge-Uintas Scenic Byway in may come to visit. Utah recognized their byway H I never go too short or too far and I always go the As part of the Byways Specialists’ needed a new plan for how visitors right way, toolbox of teaching tools, group found their way along the byway. H I always know what I’m looking at and participation techniques help Leaders wanted to conduct a byway providers understand holistic planning activity along H I understand where I am in the big picture. visitors’ needs. Byways Specialists both the Utah and Wyoming are impartial observers; they often portions of the byway. They sought recognize that individuals working information from the Resource elements, as shown in the group of byway leaders understood on byways are so familiar with Center about the concepts behind example above. the needs of visitors, they could begin charting the elements of them that it is difficult to look Effective Wayshowing, a topic A useful tool to get byway leaders their plan and complete the at the byway from the point of Byways Specialists advocate to thinking like a traveler is to do process in the coming months. view of a new traveler, one who is byways. Dennis Adams met a small group exercise. Byways unfamiliar with the byway story, with 15 or so of the byway leaders Specialists ask small groups to Other byway groups can the road or the resources that are in September to review the recall a trip experience not on contact Curt Pianalto at available along the road. Byways concepts and help them organize their byway. What was the [email protected] or Dennis Specialists assume a principle a planning project. experience like? The groups are Adams at [email protected] responsibility to use techniques The first important step in asked to list experiences that for a copy of “Wayshowing for that help the volunteers and planning for the needs of a visitor contributed to a good trip and Byways: A Guidance System,” leaders of byways look at their is to know what a visitor must equally important, the experiences which is available as a PDF routes with new eyes. Often, have for a successful byway that created bad trip memories. document. It explains in detail asking training session participants experience. Think of the The results from Flaming Gorge the concepts and tools that are to look at their own experiences layperson’s summary of these follow on the next page. Once this available to help byways or

The Trail of the Ancients meeting in Cortez, CO hosted TOTA representatives from the Navajo Nation, Utah and New Mexico.

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States address the needs of byway core elements. Your byway was Resource Center and the National training, or for information on visitors in a holistic manner. designated because of its special Scenic Byways Program staff at the how to contact your Byway intrinsic qualities, the promise of Federal Highway Administration Specialist: bywaysonline.org and Working Together To Build a memorable and unique visitor are here to support you in your bywaysresourcecenter.org. H Better Byways experience, and well-thought quest to build the most sustainable Working toward the sustainability planning to protect and promote byway you can. Visit our websites of your byway requires a balanced your slice of America’s special for information on grants, approach of addressing the three roads. The America’s Byways nominations, education and

Think Like a Traveler This is an example from the Flaming Gorge-Uintas Scenic Byway small group exercise.

Good Trip Bad Trip

Viewing wildlife Rough road Wide variety of available activities Congestion - traffic and/or not safe Accessibility Bad directions and travel information

Safe experience Lost Information: weather, facilities, costs, directions Car problems Visitor use limited (not over-run) Bad company

Fun in car Lack of visitor use limits Good food Unsafe conditions Opportunities unexpected Too expensive - tourist trap

Learn something Structures in disrepair Natural wonders Easy to get lost Relaxing experience Bad customer service Adventure fun Not authentic Seeing rare wildlife

Scenic view Stressful Informative signage Not meet expectations Clean, well-maintained facilities Not enough information Poor customer service

Resource - scenery, wildlife, people Poor road conditions Quality activities - recreational opportunities, not crowded Poorly maintained toilets Lodging - amenities, food

Water/ponds Getting lost Scenic beauty (eye of the beholder) Poor facilities and/or customer service Good road Not up to expectations - too built up, promoted better than it is, poor fishing

Learn something new (education) Getting lost Convenient and easy to identify resources High expectation, low reality Easy to pre-plan information Companion (who you are traveling with)

9 Roadside Assistance Strategic Planning: Fear Not, Help Is Here! By Kathie Knapp, Byways Specialist

oes the term “strategic Inclusive—it asks for input Throughout the workshop, planning” strike fear from everyone; all stakeholders active participation is necessary Dinto your heart? Do are included. from everyone. How do you you imagine being trapped for gather all of this information? Responsive to environmental days in a conference room Ideas and input are generated forces—it considers internal while your brain is drained dry? using the entire group and small or external factors that may What exactly does America’s groups. Here’s a quick overview be driving or influencing Byways Resource Center of the process used in Sections the organization. mean by “strategic planning”? 1-3 (below). Here are some answers and Strategic planning occurs Context or overview. helpful resources for your effectively in a workshop Discuss where the Practical byway organization. environment, which involves Vision / Underlying byway leaders, stakeholders and The basis of strategic planning Contradictions / Strategic group members in brainstorming Roadside is your byway’s vision. A byway Directions fit into the to generate data, clustering vision is extremely powerful complete Plan. Assistance the data to look at the new and motivating. But no is a regular column designed relationships that are formed Brainstorm. The group members to provide working tools that byway matter how carefully and naming what will be generate ideas, as concisely groups can use to solve problems crafted, its worth is accomplished and when, as possible, of what they want and be more effective. questionable if it’s just sitting Send topic ideas to discerning the consensus of to see in the future. All ideas in the corridor management [email protected]. the group. are acceptable, ranging from plan (CMP). When byways lose conservative to innovative, and touch with their visions, they Preparation for the workshop placed on cards. For example, tend to stall or drift aimlessly. includes gathering input if someone writes “better That’s where strategic planning from byway leaders and the communication,” a clearer idea comes in. It empowers byway coordinator to define a set may be “develop a group e-mail leaders and members to evaluate of Pre-Questions. These system.” It is important that the the following questions: Pre-Questions are then sent time frame be far enough into the to all possible participants to What do we want to see in place future for people to imagine that determine the group’s hopes, Our Byways Specialists in three to five years as a result something really can change. needs and wants and relevant are here to assist you. of our actions? background information. Cluster. The idea cards from Find the Resource Center What is blocking us from the brainstorming are clustered contact for your State on the The workshop begins with moving toward our vision? together to show similar actions, Resource Center website at everyone sharing their answers which helps to illuminate an www.bywaysresourcecenter.org/ What innovative, substantial to the Pre-Questions and idea. For example, “training” about/people/States. Call us actions will deal with the determining the day’s may be used in three or four toll-free at 866-974-6403, or contact underlying contradictions and desired goals. your Byways Specialist directly: move us toward our vision?

Dennis Adams What will our specific, [email protected] measurable accomplishments be for the first year and beyond? Kathie Knapp The questions above address [email protected] the heart of strategic planning.

Curt Pianalto Strategic planning is: [email protected] Comprehensive—it focuses on current reality. Intentional—it is derived from Byway members’ choices. Future-oriented—it asks for relevant timelines and Byways Specialist Kathie Knapp facilitates a strategic planning workshop for Coulee Corridor milestones. Scenic Byway.

10 Sustainability Directions, Future Planning, or, for the Zen group, Future Visioning? Whatever you decide to call it, your America’s Byways Resource Center Byways Specialists can facilitate a workshop tailored to the needs of your byway group. Just give us a call. And, perhaps most important, we won’t desert you after the initial workshop. We’re prepared to present follow-up implementation. No need to reinvent the wheel for new members or to bring everyone up to speed. We use the information developed at Payette River Scenic Byway members participate in a strategic planning workshop. the original workshop to help you sustain momentum, create ideas, yet the intent of each may in images and attitudes and seeking and discovering patterns alternative scenarios for dealing be different. When combined in the structures and patterns of action that fit together in with unknowns, develop new with other cards, three or four people create and from which new ways. short-range actions plans in new categories may result. they operate. Contradictions SECTION 4. response to being stuck and/or are unquestioned assumptions, help the group change or drop Name. The group decides what IMPLEMENTATION mindsets, beliefs and practices the cluster of ideas indicates as parts of the plan that are no that oppose the vision. They “What will our specific, a focus or accomplishment. longer appropriate. Of course, are not problems; problems can measurable accomplishments we’ll be there to help your group Result. Describe a plan of action be fixed. Contradictions are be for the first year?” celebrate your victories, too. for a promising future that group existing realities and may be Effective implementation of Developing a future-oriented members have created together. either internal or external factors this plan depends on timelines, strategic plan could determine that block the way forward. SECTION 1. priorities and task assignments. how or whether a byway PRACTICAL VISION SECTION 3. The actions developed in the succeeds. It promotes the STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS previous section will be placed “What do we want to see in place sustainability of the byway on a timeline and prioritized in three to five years as a result of “What innovative, substantial and the organization. It directs by the group. Can they be our actions?” actions will deal with the underlying the countless things that can implemented within this time contradictions and move us toward be done into innovative yet Pieces of the Practical Vision period? Who will be responsible our vision?” practical courses of action already exist with each group for the implementation? or programs that serve as a member and these pieces Successful organizations are Are the accomplishments framework to help a byway motivate and inform their driven by their vision. In pursuit measurable? Completion of group steer its efforts toward actions. This workshop gives of this vision, byway groups focus this section is meant to instill the vision. everyone the opportunity to on scenarios that will break ownership, commitment and share their hopes, dreams and through roadblocks and at the accountability within the The above procedure was aspirations for the future of the same time, create new courses members of the byway group. based on a workshop organization and the byway. of action and new directions. developed by ICA Technology Now What? Your Byways Everyone has a piece of the of Participation “Participatory Strategic directions are broad Specialists Can Help puzzle—the vision. When all Strategic Planning, Focusing directions that impact the of the pieces are fitted together, Your group has a practical Collective Power for Change.” future by: they build a concrete picture to vision, you’ve addressed many Copyright The Institute of guide the group into the future. • Using existing strengths of the roadblocks preventing Cultural Affairs, 1991-2005. and opportunities within you from reaching that vision, For more information, SECTION 2. an organization you’ve developed strategic please contact ICA at UNDERLYING directions to move the byway www.ica-usa.org or call CONTRADICTIONS • Overcoming perceptions, forward and you even have Marilyn Oyler at 602-468-0605. beliefs, assumptions and Used with permission. “What is blocking us from moving habits, as well as outmoded priorities and a timeline. toward our vision?” patterns, structures and If your byway group recoils in Contradictions are blocks and policies, that slow or stop horror at the term “strategic barriers that prevent a group the process planning”, what type of from realizing its vision. They Developing strategic directions workshop will encourage full are like boulders in the path to is about discovery. The group participation? Try calling it the future. They can be found starts where it is and moves something different. How in historic and societal trends, through a process of revelation, about Action Planning, Byway

11 Keeping “Scenic” in our Scenic Byway: The Frontier Pathways’ Scenic Conservation Workshop Editor’s Note: America’s Byways yways strive for a balance more. This article provides an town, historic Silver Cliff. The Resource Center is funding a of preservation and overview of the four primary steps other arm follows a 52-mile series of six Scenic Conservation Bpromotion: they work to of scenic conservation planning, segment between Colorado City protect the special resources and highlighting the Frontier Pathways and its junction with SH 96. Workshops for byways, delivered scenic vistas unique to the byway, workshop learning experience as The Scenic Conservation by Scenic America. The Resource while they work to promote shared by Bill Zwick, a Frontier Workshop provided valuable Center awarded the workshops to positive economic impact through Pathways Board Member and local training to assist the Frontier byways through a nomination and tourism. As part of the National lead organizer for the workshop. Pathways Byway in pursuing Scenic Byways Program, each interview process. The workshop for “Welcome to the Frontier!” its corridor management plan’s nationally designated byway must Frontier Pathways National Scenic purpose and vision related define its goals and strategies to The Frontier Pathways National to fostering economic and Byway was held on September protect, preserve, promote and Scenic and Historic Byway enjoys community development, while 29-30, 2008 in Pueblo, Colorado. enhance the byway through a diverse cultures, ecosystems, addressing and protecting scenic, Two prior workshops, one for the corridor management plan. scenic and natural resources historic, recreational and natural Mohawk Towpath National Scenic and economic development Across the nation, increasing opportunities along its route. It resources that attract visitors to Byway in New York and another development pressure is prompting was established as a Colorado State the area. The workshop was also a for the Turquoise Trail National many byways to ask, “How do we Byway in 1994 and designated as valuable way of reinforcing Scenic Byway in New Mexico, protect the visual integrity of our a National Scenic Byway in 1998. partnerships, building board were held in 2007. road corridor? How do we keep Located in south central Colorado membership and re-establishing the ‘scenic’ in our scenic byway? just off Interstate 25, the byway a common interest in the How can we use our corridor follows a 103-mile route in two corridor’s resource enhancement management plan to address segments like a sideways Y. One and protection. these concerns?” arm includes the 51-mile segment The workshop training focused The Frontier Pathways Scenic of Colorado State Highway 96 on the State Highway 96 segment Conservation Workshop between the City of Pueblo and stretching west from historic considered these questions and Westcliffe and its companion Pueblo’s urban core to the rural

Frontier Pathways scenic conservation workshop participants pose together at “All Aboard Westcliffe.”

Keeping “Scenic” in our Scenic Byway: The Frontier Pathways’ Scenic Conservation Workshop continues on page 13 12 Keeping “Scenic” in our Scenic Byway: The Frontier Pathways’ Scenic Conservation Workshop continued from page 12 ranching towns of Westcliffe and Silver Cliff. This segment offered opportunities to consider urban What is Scenic Conservation? redevelopment and gateway enhancement issues in Pueblo Scenic conservation is… and rural town issues in Westcliffe. … a process for preserving or enhancing the visual quality of a particular place, be it a community, Protecting and enhancing the roadway, corridor or landscape. byway’s grand vista of the Wet Mountain Valley and the …a process for addressing the planning, design and management of those elements in the built and 14,000-foot peaks of the Sangre natural environment that have an influence on the visual character or aesthetic appeal of a place. de Cristo Mountain Range also In the case of a scenic byway, it encompasses attention to the roadway itself as well as those visible ranked as important issues for the portions of the viewshed corridor. workshop. In addition, the land between Pueblo and Westcliffe …the development of strategies to help preserve the context of the intrinsic qualities and resources presented many other scenic along the byway, such as scenery, historic resources and community character. conservation issues related to open space/open lands, ranchlands, and forest management, as well as workshop meetings and also practices for development • The Westcliffe and Silver Cliff concerns about increasing the during the formal two-day of interpretive pullouts and town representatives of the quality of the visitor experience. training workshop. preservation of historical chamber of commerce and All campground sites. Aboard Westcliffe were present • The City of Pueblo and County Step One: to discuss concerns especially of Pueblo planning and GIS • Lake Pueblo State Park has Engage Partners related to preserving the grand staffs gave valued assistance the largest attendance of any This step of scenic conservation vista of ranching in the Wet by providing the inventory Colorado State Park and is planning addresses the questions, Mountain Valley and the Sangre data collection and viewshed willing to participate in the “Who has shared concerns or De Cristo Mountain Range and mapping for the 52-mile critical issues of visitor interests in the visual integrity of our enhancing their town’s main segment. The staff planners experience and conservation byway? How can we work together streets and gateways. to identify areas of agreement and brought a professional planning of State Park lands. The State disagreement, and opportunities to perspective to the project. Park plans to develop a future expansion master plan. work together?” Engaging partners • The San Isabel Land Protection is continual throughout the scenic Trust and the Palmer Land • Destination Pueblo is a conservation process. Trust have direct interest in consortium of various tourism The Frontier Pathways Byway’s the byway. The folks from the groups in the Pueblo area scenic beauty and varied resources land protection trusts added a and is a valuable partner have helped to establish a base of real-life understanding of the in reinforcing the byway’s key public and private agencies, successes and disappointments tourism component. that can occur in the effort of entities, citizens and property • A byway board member and protecting the land and critical Byway member Bill Zwick, representing owners as stakeholders in the Colorado City Architectural viewsheds through conservation the City of Pueblo, participates in a scenic byway corridor. The byway is truly Review Commission member conservation mapping exercise. easements and/or acquisition. an instrument to pull these diverse represented Colorado City, groups together for consensus on • Scenic Colorado, a State partner expressing particular interest Step Two: critical issues. organization, contributed in development guidelines that Inventory and Bill Zwick introduced the partners information about how to may be established through Map the Byway’s invited to the two-day Scenic protect visual qualities, future conservation planning Visual Quality Conservation Training Workshop, primarily through monitoring studies. Although Colorado and controlling billboard blight City anchors the other segment This step of scenic conservation and explained a bit about their planning helps byway groups and shared interest in the byways: on the byway. of the byway, which was not selected for the workshop, the stakeholders to see their byway • USDA National Forest Service • Colorado State Byways city participated and gained through a fresh set of eyes, assessing participants shared recreational Coordinator Sally Pearce insights on how to continue “the good, the bad, and the ugly,” and archaeological expertise in worked closely with the byway scenic conservation planning documenting what things add to providing landscape architecture organization in the pre-planning in its segment. or detract from the visual quality of the byway. As part of the workshop, “As someone who has dealt with tourism for 30 years off and on, it was great participants took a half-day to see city and county planners, highway department, landscapers, Chamber of bus trip of the byway to practice observing the byway’s visual Commerce and land trust folks all in the same room to hear about the area from quality using observation sheets their perspective.” and discussing issues of concern. – Paulette Stuart, Destination Colorado Association Chairman and Scenic Conservation Workshop participant The field trip session helped the participants concentrate on the

Keeping “Scenic” in our Scenic Byway: The Frontier Pathways’ Scenic Conservation Workshop continues on page 14 13 Keeping “Scenic” in our Scenic Byway: The Frontier Pathways’ Scenic Conservation Workshop continued from page 13 visual character of the byway’s or mitigation. selected segment with a “new set of eyes.” Step Three: Identify and Eight stops along the way, Prioritize Scenic determined in advance during Issues the workshop’s planning phase, presented locations where the This step of scenic conservation potential scenic issues and planning helps a byway group and character were likely to be a stakeholders to identify areas of concern for future protection. concern and to develop agreement These stops included: on areas that may need action to remedy the problem facing the visual 1) Downtown Pueblo Urban character of the byway. Core corridor Using GIS basemaps on Day 2 of 2) Thatcher Avenue the scenic conservation workshop, (characterized as a “hodge participants broke into three podge of different land use” groups and were asked to identify on the fringe of the City the visual character of the and County) landscape, as well as values and The Frontier Pathways scenic conservation mobile workshop allowed participants to inventory 3) Historic Goodnight Barn issues observed from the bus and discuss issues on-site along the byway. 4) Lake Pueblo State Park tour on the previous day. to the byway’s character included: • restore Goodnight Barn 5) Open lands west of Lake Pueblo Some of the landscape character descriptions that were generated • historic district and river bottom area of 6) Hardscabble Canyon included: the State Park Wildlife pullout • urban tree canopy • protect the Wet Mountain • undeveloped • art district 7) McKenzie Junction Valley (junction with SH165 segment • western landscape with • proximity to attractions opportunities to retain character • restore old buildings and of the byway) • diverse people • diverse ecosystems landscape in rural areas 8) Bear Basin Ranch conservation • stunning mountain views easement and Sangre de Cristo • very diverse urban to very rural In another part of the exercise, Viewpoint to natural landscapes • high level of integrity the group was asked to write a • transition from prairies to future newspaper or magazine Participants received a map and • wildlife and working ranches headline that would reflect a visual quality observation sheets mountains In the “Issues” section of this significant visual character to document how the byway • big sky views activity, participants concentrated improvement. Some of the character changes along the route on elements they thought • recreation headlines: Visual Clutter Removed and the “likes and dislikes” at each contributed to or detracted from from the Byway; City of Pueblo stop. Specifically, the visual quality • an Old West “feel” the byway’s character, and any and Frontier Pathway Awarded observation sheets asked what opportunities for enhancement, Some elements that participants Streetscape of the Year for 4th elements contributed to the restoration or mitigation they felt detracted from the byway’s Street Corridor; Congratulations byway’s character; elements that thought could be applied. character included: to Frontier Pathways for Completing detracted from the byway’s • urban blight Its Last Conservation Easement Some features and areas that character; and any opportunities Totaling $100 Million; and, for enhancement, restoration participants felt contributed most • lack of continuity in visual character Digital Billboards Outlawed in Pueblo County. • overgrazing of open range lands • cell towers Step Four: Develop Scenic • fences Conservation • junk areas Strategies Participants cited opportunities This step of scenic conservation that they felt existed for planning helps a byway group and enhancement, restoration stakeholders to begin to develop or mitigation, such as: strategies that best address issues, • protect 30,000 acres of open planning for “next steps” and land that could be developed opportunities to implement them. into another community like The last session of Day 2 of the Pueblo West Scenic Conservation Workshop • develop guidelines for the focused on Action Planning. byway through the urban Participants selected up to all eight areas of Pueblo scenic issue categories identified The Frontier Pathways scenic conservation mobile workshop allowed participants to inventory and discuss issues on-site along the byway.

Keeping “Scenic” in our Scenic Byway: The Frontier Pathways’ Scenic Conservation Workshop continues on page 15 14 Keeping “Scenic” in our Scenic Byway: The Frontier Pathways’ Scenic Conservation Workshop continued from page 14 in the Conserving Our Treasured Places guide or specific issue(s) areas along the byway for Hear About The Workshop Firsthand in-depth study. To better communicate the workshop’s impact, here are some comments Out of the three work groups that collected from participants: day, Group Two’s presentation was selected for this article to share an Christopher G. Markuson, GIS Manager, County of Pueblo: “I learned a mountain of invaluable information example of the work performed. from the workshop. Brad and Bonnie were fantastic, and they brought a tremendous amount of insight to our Group Two chose to focus on two Byway. We now have a great relationship with area land trusts, and have a common understanding or priority areas areas of the byway segment: the that we should work together to address. Without this workshop, we would still be operating blindly, unaware of urban gateway out of downtown each other’s priorities. Furthermore, our group has a different perspective about our Byway, and now [has] distinct Pueblo referred to as Central regions where we will work with our local government agencies, non-profit and other resources to address scenic Pueblo and the Wet Mountain improvement and scenic conservation issues. A heartfelt thank you to both Scenic America and America’s Byways Valley and Wetmore area. The Resource Center!” issues brought up included signage, utilities and cell towers, the Tim Williams, Senior Planner – City of Pueblo: “Before attending this workshop, I didn’t have a sense of how design of the built environment, a scenic byway could be incorporated into an aging, urban environment like Pueblo’s downtown. Taking the bus and vegetation. tour was extremely helpful. It included local experts who articulated the vibrant history of the byway and the Scenic The group members suggested America staff who engaged us to consider the corridor from a new perspective. The Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway various strategies for addressing is a spectacular local treasure. Our trip took us through five major eco-regions, including nearly every classic Western both geographic areas of focus, vista from wide-open prairies, to ranching and agricultural valleys, slot canyons, high mountain passes and rugged, such as incentives, regulations, rural ranching towns that are deeply connected to their rich cultural past. We returned from this trip passionate management objectives and about our experience and filled with creative ideas of how we might protect and improve the visual quality of our voluntary measures. Specific scenic byway. The workshop was also a great opportunity to network with potential partners and improve our future recommended actions included: successes in the reverent preservation of and conscious improvements to this invaluable, shared resource.” • Develop design guidelines for urban and rural development Pam Coons, Director of Custer County Merchants and Chamber of Commerce: “I thought it was an exciting • Develop sign ordinances in opportunity to collaborate with a knowledgeable group of people to determine a way to improve the byway and, in urban and rural areas that particular, to clean up and enhance the gateway into Silver Cliff/Westcliffe.” address height, size, number, style and location Ken Clark, Pueblo County Historical Society: “I gained a lot from the two-day session. The introduction before • Design roadway for pedestrian going on the trip was very informative. [Hearing] the comments on the trip by various members was really an asset. and bicycles and evaluate vehicle The comments about the dam and future plans were enlightening. My favorite moment was seeing the view at the traffic patterns for alternatives end of Hwy. 96, the Wet Mountain Valley and mountain range, beautiful... the entire program was well planned and very well presented. Thank you for the invitation.” • Maintain the 80-acre minimum lot size and encourage ranching Josh Tenneson, Palmer Land Trust: “Thanks again for incorporating Palmer Land Trust into the Scenic and agricultural use Conservation Workshop. I learned a great deal from the experience and look forward to working with you in • Discourage dense residential the future. My favorite aspect of the workshop was simply teaching myself, with the help of Brad and other development on the Wet participants, how to view the byway in a different capacity than I had before. With my new set of lenses I learned Mountain Valley floor how to visualize physical spaces with less clutter—especially in urban areas. It was insightful to see how the byway • Use GIS techniques to help with can make a constructive difference within urban zones by coming up with potential ways to reduce such visual cellular tower placement as well clutter. For example, I never thought about how much of a difference it makes to the eye to place utility lines as opportunities to minimize beneath the ground.” visual impacts through stealth technology and co-location Paulette Stuart, Destination Pueblo Association Chairman: “Instead of hearing about tearing down all The partners identified billboards we talked of better interpretive signage and pullouts for photo opportunities. The two days were a great collaborative planning and start and now we need to get things moving in Pueblo to highlight this Scenic Byway’s beginning and get folks off funding for these actions and plans to a GREAT start here in Pueblo by sprucing up 4th Street, Lincoln and Thatcher and have many more combined to address these issues by including meetings until this happens.” them in the corridor management plan, city and county ordinances, and the urban renewal plan. Center and Brad Cownover new and continuing relationships America’s Byways Resource Center Clear And Understandable from Scenic America to assist with the participants involved and Scenic America will continue Scenic Conservation Strategies and facilitate the Frontier Pathways with this workshop. The board to provide insights to the Scenic Scenic Conservation Workshop. of directors’ priority goal for the Conservation Workshop process. According to Bill Zwick, the The training for scenic byway is to update the corridor For more information, visit Frontier Pathways group was very conservation planning was management plan and initiate bywaysresourcecenter.org. H fortunate to have this opportunity clear and understandable. scenic conservation planning for to have Bonnie Hundrieser from The byway will be developing the entire byway. the America’s Byways Resource

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2009 APRIL JULY OCTOBER April 22-24 July 8-10 October 11–16 MARCH 2009 California Trails and It’s Tourism Time NCAI 66th Annual Convention March 2-6 Greenways Conference Phoenix, Arizona Palm Springs, California Rethinking Protected Areas in a Changing Fish Camp, California AZ Governor’s Conference on Tourism National Congress of American Indians World: 2009 Biennial Conference on Parks, California State Parks; Recreational From more information, please visit: For more information, please visit: Protected Areas, and Cultural Sites Trails Conference Foundation www.aztourismconference.com/ www.ncai.org/Conferences_Events.7.0.html Portland, Oregon For more information, please visit: George Wright Society www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=24151 July 9-12 October 13-17, 2009 For more information, please visit: Southeastern Equestrian Trails Conference National Preservation Conference www.georgewright.org/gws2009.html Gainesville, Florida Nashville, Tennessee MAY Southeastern Distance Riders Association National Trust for Historic Preservation March 7-11 For more information, please visit: For more information, call: (202) 588-6092 May 16-20 PA Recreation and Park Society 62nd www.southeasternequestriantrails.com or email: [email protected] Miami International Pow Wow Annual Conference Travel Industry Association Hershey, Pennsylvania July 27–30 Miami, Florida For more information, please visit: The 27th Annual National LTAP/TTAP For more information, please visit: www.prps.org Conference: Building Bridges in the Iron City www.tia.org/powwow/ Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania General_Information.html March 24-26 PennDOT LTAP/Region 3 LTAP Centers Change of National OHV Program Managers Workshop For more information, please visit: Houston, Texas JUNE www.dot7.state.pa.us/LTAP/Public/ Address? National Off Highway Vehicle RegistrationInfo.aspx Just e-mail your name and new Conservation Council June 15-18 address to [email protected] For more information, please contact: NCAI Mid Year Conference Tom Metsa at (303) 791-1954 x132 Niagara Falls, New York AUGUST to receive Vistas at your or [email protected] National Congress of American Indians August 23-26 new location. For more information, please visit: 2009 National Scenic Byways March 26-29 www.ncai.org/Conferences_Events.7.0.html Conference: Elevate Your Expertise National OHV Conservation Council Denver, Colorado Annual Conference June 18-28 America’s Byways Resource Center Houston, Texas SHARE THE NEWS The Gettysburg Festival: Celebrating America For more information, please visit: National Off Highway Vehicle Gettysburg, Pennsylvania www.bywaysresourcecenter.org Conservation Council For more information, please visit: Contact Vistas Editor: For more information, please contact: www.gettysburgfestival.org Leah Kohlts Ann Vance at (800) 348-6487 or [email protected] Direct: 218-625-3301 [email protected]

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