We're used to the many hiking and biking trails here in the Tennessee Valley.
     But what about the water?   
     This week the Southeast Water Trails Forum came to the scenic city to talk about improvements.
     WDEF News 12's Mandy Odom is covering the environment.
     Sandy Kurtz says, "We speak for the creek."
     Water enthusiasts gather to talk about how to better protect water trails and how to get more people involved.
     The first Southeastern Water Trails Forum spent the past two days in Chattanooga.
     David Vela with the National Park Service says, "If we lose it, we're done."
     The forum taught development of water trails; including construction, maintenance, and security.
     They also talked about ways to promote and protect them.
     Sandy Kurtz is part of the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway Alliance.
     She reminds people that it's important to keep the waters clean.
     Kurtz says, "Most of the drinking water that citizens get from the Tennessee American Water Company comes from South Chickamauga Creek."
     Kurtz helps with river rescues, picking up lots of trash.
     She hopes more students involved.
     Kurtz says, "I think every child should have a creek in their life, and one that they can get into, one they can be familiar with, just to get wet now and again. And appreciate the wonders of nature and the supportive eco system."
     Vela says, "Putting your feet in the water, getting in a canoe, getting in a raft, throwing a line out, whether you catch a fish or not. Once you're there, you're hooked."
     And lots of people are hooked.
     In just two weekends, the Head of the Hooch Rowing Regatta comes to Chattanooga.
     Steve Genovesi with the Chattanooga Convention & Visitor's Bureau says, "It's now the highest attendance they've ever had. All the hotels are sold out, so it really is a great generator to have some of these events on the water that can really bring the tourists into town as well."
     Forum organizers say making water trails is a win win situation, helping both the economy and the environment.
     In Chattanooga, Mandy Odom, WDEF News 12.
     Everyone is encouraged to get involved.
    
     www.southeastwaterforum.org

     www.enviroedu.net/sccga