Washington Water Trails Association

Mission

Through advocacy, education, and stewardship, Washington Water Trails Association protects and promotes public access to Washington waterways, shorelines, and marine trails for human-powered watercraft.

Description

Washington Water Trails Association (WWTA) was founded in 1990 to establish, develop, and protect public shoreline access and water trails in Washington state for non-motorized boating, and other outdoor recreation and social uses. WWTA welcomes members, organizations, as well as business and general support.

Because only about 20 percent of the state's Puget Sound waterfront property is publicly owned, WWTA collaborates with others to secure access sites for human- and wind-powered watercraft launch, landing, day and/or overnight visits. Shoreline access sites are also used for birdwatching, scuba diving, fishing, hunting, surfing and windsurfing, and for walking, picnicking, and other uses. WWTA's advocacy is vital because the region's population is growing which increases the demand for public access.

The Cascadia Marine Trail (saltwater) and the Lakes-To-Locks Water Trail (freshwater) have won national and international awards. WWTA also works with public agencies and organizations to establish and steward water trails on the Columbia River, the Nisqually, Willapa Bay and in Snohomish County.

WWTA recognizes the importance of balancing public shoreline access with ecological integrity, and actively promotes conservation and Leave No Trace outdoor activities.