New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
The Whaling History Alliance and New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park to announce newly formed SoCo Blueways National Water Trail project
The Whaling History Alliance and New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park announces a press conference to kick-off the newly formed SoCo Blueways National Water Trail at the New Bedford Whaling Museum on Thursday, June 13, at 6pm.
The Whaling History Alliance along with a number of local partners have begun an effort to create a nationally recognized water trail right here in the South Coast. In an effort to gain support for and recognize the many organizations that already actively program our waterways, the Whaling History Alliance is holding an event at the New Bedford Whaling Museum to coincide with June AHA! night, “Portraits of a Port.” The event will include two portions, a partner showcase fair and a brief speaking program. The fair will be held in the Jacobs Gallery between 5 and 7 p.m., and the speaking portion will commence at approximately 6 p.m.
After the speaking portion the Buzzards Bay Coalition will host Richard Wheeler for “Paddling the SouthCoast,” an interactive discussion on Mr. Wheeler’s kayaking adventure around Buzzards Bay. This program will take place at the Buzzard’s Bay Coalition in the learning center at 7 p.m.
The Whaling History Alliance is a non-profit support group of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. The Alliance is embarking on this new venture to create a nationally recognized water trail here in the South Coast region. President of the Whaling History Alliance, City Councilor Joseph Lopes believes,” a SouthCoast water trail will be an unprecedented connection between the region’s nautical history and recreational opportunities for all patrons to enjoy.”
The Alliance is receiving assistance from the National Park Service and the Buzzards Bay Coalition to bring the trail to reality. Charles Tracy from the National Park Service is excited to be supporting the Alliance’s effort, “The National Park Service is thrilled to join with the Whaling History Alliance and other partners in realizing the full recreational potential of SoCo Blueways. Our goal is to create the best possible land and water trail experience for everyone, from the casual walker and novice paddler to the seasoned hiker and expert kayaker.”
Water trails across the country provide participants with a variety of opportunities to enjoy the environment’s natural areas through active and passive recreation. Water trails highlight a community’s waterways including rivers, streams, lakes, and harbors, as well as on-shore trails. In addition to recreation, the SoCo Blueways trail will celebrate our region’s rich maritime heritage. “The waterways of Buzzards Bay and the SouthCoast are rich with ecological and historical treasures. SoCo Blueways will be a catalyst for getting people out and exploring their community both on the water and on land. The Buzzards Bay Coalition is committed to connecting the region’s residents with their local environment and is proud to be a partner in the SoCo Blueways project.” Said Rob Hancock, Vice-President for Education and Public Engagement for the Buzzards Bay Coalition.
For more information on the SoCo Blueways water trail you can visit the website at www.socoblueways.com or visit the Facebook page SoCo Blueways. For more information on how to get involved as a partner or volunteer please contact the Whaling History Alliance by email at wha.nbma@gmail.com
