Continental Divide National Scenic Trail Completion Act

This bill would speed up finishing the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail so it becomes one unbroken route within 10 years, if funding is provided. It tells the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Interior Department to make this a priority and to work together to get it done . A joint Trail Completion Team must be set up within 1 year to plan, coordinate, and help close gaps in the trail, while talking with Tribes, states, local governments, landowners, land-grant mercedes owners and users, acequias, and others who may be affected .

Within 3 years of forming the team, the government must finish a detailed plan that lists where the trail is still incomplete, how easements from willing sellers could help, and the expected costs to build and improve sections. The agencies should also partner with volunteers and nonprofits to help complete and manage the trail. The bill does not give any new power to take land; it relies on existing law and does not make trail land purchases outrank other land needs .

• Who is affected: Hikers, nearby communities, Tribes, landowners, and public land agencies
• What changes: A federal team coordinates completion; a plan identifies gaps and costs; partnerships with volunteers and nonprofits are encouraged; no new land-taking powers are created
• When: Team within 1 year; plan within 3 years after the team starts; trail completion goal within 10 years of the law taking effect (if funded)