The Appomattox River and those that enjoy one of the key recreational resources in our region got some great news last month.The Cameron Foundation announced that it is awarding a $100,000 grant to Friends of the Lower Appomattox River or FOLAR to help the group develop a master plan that will help link and enhance the parks along the Appomattox River.The project will generate two detailed and interconnected regional planning documents – one to guide completion of linear park and trail development, and the other to guide development of branding and interpretive signage along the Lower Appomattox River. FOLAR already has secured other commitments to begin implementation of trail improvements once the master plans have been finalized.The grant will be a major boost to enhance the trails along the Appomattox River and increase access to the river.FOLAR Chair K. “FOLAR and communities along the river will work with a consultant team to develop engineering, planning, transportation, trail design, branding, and signage design to prepare the plans.Improving the recreational opportunities along the Appomattox River makes sense on a variety of levels, including health, recreation and economic development. Also, a multi-use trail brings increased awareness of the river while improving water quality, increasing habitat for native species, and protecting areas of historical, cultural and ecological significance.This push to improve the trail system along the Appomattox River will be a major benefit to the health of the communities along the river and the quality of life to all who live in the region.