Chesapeake Gateways Experiences Self-Nomination Instructions

Membership is granted to specific programs that meet the defining characteristics listed below. Membership entitles Chesapeake Gateways Experiences certain benefits enumerated through a general agreement.

Defining Characteristics

Experiences enable people to have authentic opportunities no matter their location in the watershed. Examples of eligible experiences include Chesapeake Gateways Storytellers, sailing excursions, water- or land-based tours, historic walking tours, and recreational paddling equipment rental opportunities.

Guided

• For educational and interpretive activities, guides utilizing a structured program development framework such as NPS 21^st Century Interpretive Competencies, the Chesapeake Bay Storytellers training, the TORE (Thematic, Organized, Relevant, & Enjoyable) model, NAI’s Certified Interpretive Guide, or other standard

• For recreational activities, guides follow professional standards to ensure they have the knowledge and skills for the activity provided and to handle emergencies and manage risks

Self-guided

• Activities include sufficient orientation to prepare visitors for the activity offered

Both

• Begins and predominately occurs within the Chesapeake Bay watershed

• Primary purpose of the experience is interpretation, education, and/or recreation centered on Chesapeake Gateways themes and resources (see below)

• Open to the public through regularly scheduled daily or weekly hours throughout the visitor season

• Activities developed and provided at the highest safety and responsible recreation standards

• Have sufficient visitor information to support a www.nps.gov/Chesapeake listing

Any organization may complete the Chesapeake Gateways Experiences Self-Nomination Questionnaire to be considered for inclusion in the Chesapeake Gateways Network. One Questionnaire should be completed for each experience. A word version of the questionnaire can be downloaded by clicking here, however, please keep in mind all nominations must be submitted via the Microsoft Form link above.

Questions

For additional information or clarification, please reach out to our Communications and Visitor Experience Branch, by email. Thank you for your interest in and partnership with Chesapeake Gateways.