The National Park Service – Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program or NPS-RTCA Projects

Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program (NPS-RTCA) supports locally-led conservation and outdoor recreation projects across the United States. NPS-RTCA assists communities and public land managers in developing or restoring parks, conservation areas, rivers, and wildlife habitats, as well as creating outdoor recreation opportunities and programs that engage future generations in the outdoors.
The Great Pinery Heritage Waterway has several active programs with the NPS-RTCA team.

Project 1

Water accessible primitive camping

This consists of the development of over 20 dispersed water edge camping sites that are accessible by paddle craft along the trail’s length. NPS-RTCA has spearheaded the effort with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Bureau of Land Management, and private landowners in the development of campsites.

Project 2

The River Academy

A program designed to engage youth, families, and seniors in outdoor recreation, river ecology and environmental stewardship. The NPS-RTCA team supports our local efforts in working with schools, the Boys & Girls Club, YMCA, The Landing (Senior Center), and Scouting Organizations in connecting the trail to educate and the support of river conservation. Local partners include the Wausau Whitewater Corporation, Wausau and Marathon County Parks along with local foundations.

Know Before You Go

Please review these important safety reminders before getting on the water.

Safe & Smart

Check the weather and water temperature before going paddling.

Wear a Lifejacket

Don’t be a statistic.

Know Your Limits

There are old paddlers and bold paddlers, but no old bold paddlers! Know your skill level.

Don’t Drink and Paddle

Water and booze don’t mix.

Have the Right Gear

Footwear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, trail map, water, snacks, water tight bag for personal items and your cell phone, bilge pump, and first aid kit.

File a Float Plan

Communicate to family and friends your put-in and take-out, and when you are paddling.

Water Levels & Obstacles

Be aware of water levels, rapids, and dams before you get into the water.

In Case of Emergency Call 911

Remember your mile markers and landmarks.

Have a Map or App

Take a map or download an app to know where you are at on the water.

No Glass on the Wisconsin River

It is illegal to have glass on the Wisconsin River. If you are caught, the DNR will fine you up to $749.