Definitions.

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) “Board” means the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund.

(2) “Department” means the Department of Environmental Protection.

(3) “Designation” means the identification and inclusion of specific lands and waterways as part of the statewide system of greenways and trails pursuant to a formal public process, including the specific written consent of the landowner. When the department determines that public access is appropriate for greenways and trails, written authorization must be granted by the landowner to the department permitting public access to all or a specified part of the landowner’s property. The department’s determination shall be noticed pursuant to s. 120.525, and the department shall also notify the landowner by certified mail at least 7 days before any public meeting regarding the intent to designate.

(4) “Greenway” means a linear open space established along either a natural corridor, such as a riverfront, stream valley, or ridgeline, or over land along a railroad right-of-way converted to recreational use, a canal, a scenic road, or other route; any natural or landscaped course for pedestrian or bicycle passage; an open space connector linking parks, nature reserves, cultural features, or historic sites with each other and populated areas; or a local strip or linear park designated as a parkway or greenbelt.

(5) “Office” means the Office of Greenways and Trails within the Department of Environmental Protection.

(6) “Trails” means linear corridors and any adjacent support parcels on land or water providing public access for recreation or authorized alternative modes of transportation.