GREAT SHASTA RAIL TRAIL
BRIEFING PAPER
June 2011
I. Background
The McCloud Railway Company (originally known as McCloud River Railroad Company) spans over 80 miles through the forested mountains of northern California. The right-of-way links the towns of Burney and McCloud, and played a significant role in the history of both towns and the surrounding area going back to the 1800’s. In 2005, McCloud Railway Company (MCR) petitioned the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to abandon the right-of-way, initiating a new and exciting chapter in the corridor’s history. Concerned citizens and organizations from surrounding communities formed a collaborative partnership in 2009 (the “Core Team”), in order to acquire the entire right-of-way and convert it to a public recreation trail.
To protect the right-of-way and acquire the property intact, the Core Team used a tool called “railbanking” that was created by the National Trails System Act. Railbanking allows MCR to sell the intact right-of-way, with approval by the STB. Under railbanking, the right-of-way will be converted to a public recreation trail unless it is re-activated for future railroad use, subject to review and approval by the STB. Acting as the lead organization for the Core Team, Save Burney Falls was approved by the STB as an ‘interim trail user’ in 2009. In May 2010, MCR signed a formal Letter of Intent pledging to negotiate a purchase price and sell the right-of-way to the Core Team, who will convert the property to the Great Shasta Rail Trail (GSRT). A Purchase and Sale Agreement between MCR and Shasta Land Trust, another member group of the Core Team, was signed in August, 2011.
II. Acquisition Process
The Core Team and MCR used a certified appraisal to determine the value of the right-of-way and MCR generously agreed to a purchase price well below this appraised value. The Core Team is completing necessary due diligence tasks and received an Environmental Site Assessment from VESTRA Resources in February 2011. Shasta Land Trust will purchase the right-of-way from MCR and donate the property to the USDA Forest Service or other public agency or qualified non-profit, who will manage the trail with the assistance of active volunteer trail coalitions.
These acquisition steps, and the plan for accomplishing them, are laid out in more detail in the Core Team’s draft feasibility study, capital campaign plan, action plan, project budget, and communication plan. The National Park Service and Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is assisting in development of a Trail Concept Plan in 2011, with input from all interested stakeholders.
III. Benefits of the Great Shasta Rail Trail
Converting the right-of-way to a public recreation trial will provide numerous benefits to the rural communities of Burney and McCloud, including tourism and recreation-related commerce, increasing neighboring property values, and attracting new businesses. Additional opportunities for outdoor exercise and recreation provided by the GSRT will improve the quality of life and offer health benefits for residents and tourists alike. The GSRT will also connect with the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, recreation facilities on adjacent national forest land, and provide a link between Burney, McCloud, and McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park.
The GSRT passes through miles of expansive timber lands and features innumerable scenic amenities. It offers gentle grades for diverse users, providing year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation. With impressive views of Burney Mountain and Mt. Shasta along the trail, the majestic natural beauty of far northern California will be accessible to residents and visitors as they enjoy the outdoors on this historic rail corridor.
IV. Core Team Participants
McCloud Local First Network
McCloud Railway Company
McCloud Trail Association
Save Burney Falls
Shasta Land Trust
Volcanic Legacy Community Partnership
V. Support Groups
Bureau of Land Management
California Department of Parks and Recreation (McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park)
California Department of Transportation, District 2
National Park Service, (Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program)
Numerous individuals and private supporters
Pacific Crest Trail Association
Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC)
Shasta College, GIS Department (through National Science Foundation grant)
USDA, Forest Service, Lassen National Forest
USDA, Forest Service, Shasta-Trinity National Forest
VI. Grant Funders
Burney Chamber of Commerce Donor Fund of the Shasta Regional Community Foundation
McConnell Fund of the Shasta Regional Community Foundation (2010 and 2011)
National Park Service, (Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program)
Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC)
Shasta College, GIS Department (through National Science Foundation grant)
Shasta County Public Health Department