Paddle in Nossan

Nossan has long been an asset for the people who live and work along the river. At the same time, a leader-funded feasibility study shows that many of the stretches that can be paddled today are difficult to find and use for those who lack local knowledge. Therefore, Herrljunga, Vårgårda, Essunga, and Grästorp municipalities want to jointly develop a coherent and quality-assured paddling trail through the area.

The project Paddle in Nossan builds on the work that has been carried out during a comprehensive feasibility study. There, municipalities, associations, landowners, and businesses have together examined the conditions for creating a paddling trail approximately 72 kilometers long through the four municipalities. The feasibility study shows both that the trail is possible to establish and that there is a strong local commitment to the initiative.

Now the project wants to take the next step. The project group will survey the trail under different water conditions, continue the dialogue with landowners, and prepare documentation for necessary permits. In addition, the project will develop a cohesive system for signage and produce maps and informational materials that make the trail easier to use.

Along the paddling trail, signs will show the way, inform about safety, and highlight natural and cultural environments. The project will also map and document launching sites, landing sites, lifting points, and passages so that paddlers can more easily plan their trips. In this way, the project aims to make Nossan more accessible for residents, associations, schools, and visitors.

At the same time, the project wants to create long-term conditions for continued development. Therefore, municipalities, associations, businesses, and landowners will together develop a model for operation, maintenance, and collaboration around the trail. The goal is to create long-term conditions for a paddling trail that can be used and developed for many years to come.

When the project is completed, a coherent, clearly marked, and quality-assured paddling trail will be in place along Nossan. This will make it easier for more people to discover the river and the natural and cultural environments that exist along its course.

Cut from the application

”The purpose of the project is to make Nossan accessible as a quality-assured, safe, and cohesive paddling trail that more people can use – residents, associations, schools, and visitors.”

The board's decision justification

The project has an exemplary collaboration between all three sectors and is assessed to have high implementation capacity and compliance. The project enables new outdoor activities to be offered in Sjuhärad and facilitates new business areas for actors related to the initiative. The project promotes rural development in Sjuhärad.