News

Proposed Canopy Trail

March 29th 2024

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. National Arboretum (USNA) has prepared an Environmental Assessment (EA) to analyze the potential impacts associated with the proposed construction and operation of a canopy trail attraction at the USNA in Washington, DC. The purpose of the proposed action is to expand educational and visitor opportunities, as well as generate revenue for the USNA.

This notice announces the availability of the draft EA for public review and comment. The EA was prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 40 CFR Parts 1500–1508, and evaluates the potential impacts of the Build Alternative and No Build Alternative. The proposed Build Alternative consists of constructing three self-guided, aboveground canopy trails that would weave through an existing, forested area of the Arboretum. The trails would consist of a series of ADA-compliant static bridges, as well as suspension bridges, which connect to platforms attached to existing trees.

The draft EA will be open for public review for 30 days, from March 29 through April 28, 2024. The draft EA and supporting documents can be viewed below.

If you wish to comment on the draft EA, you can email or mail comments to Dr. Richard T. Olsen, Director, U.S. National Arboretum, 3501 New York Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002. (202) 245-4539. USNA.comments@usda.gov.

All comments must be received no later than April 28, 2024.

Proposed Canopy Trail Draft Environmental Assessment Documents