West Virginia Trails, Access, and Stewardship Act

SB 487 creates the West Virginia Trails, Access, and Stewardship Act to establish a coordinated statewide system of non-motorized trails (hiking, biking, equestrian, water trails, and ADA-accessible segments). It forms the West Virginia Trail Authority to set uniform standards for trail development, safety, wildlife protection, and emergency response, while creating a dedicated Trail Maintenance and Stewardship Fund for long-term upkeep. The bill directly affects state agencies, trail users, landowners (by prioritizing voluntary agreements over eminent domain for trail corridors), and communities through economic development opportunities. Key provisions include mandating statewide signage, mapping, flood management protocols, and clarifying that existing whitewater outfitter regulations remain unchanged.