The Appalachian Trail Centennial Act establishes a framework for managing national historic and scenic trails through partnerships between federal agencies, nonprofits, volunteer organizations, and state and tribal governments, with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy designated as the primary operational partner for the Appalachian Trail. Designated Operational Partners gain authority to develop land protection priorities, report violations, and influence comprehensive trail plans, while federal agencies are required to streamline volunteer participation, cooperative agreements (up to 20 years), and fee collection across jurisdictions. The bill makes trails eligible for federal funding across multiple agencies and mandates economic impact assessments and visitor capacity planning by individual trail segments. The Secretaries of Interior and Agriculture must study and report on trail development, management, and economic impacts while consulting with local communities and tribal nations. Funding is authorized through fiscal year 2031 for trail planning, partnership development, land acquisition, and facility construction.
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