Representatives of the Watermen’s Museum at Yorktown are spearheading an effort to have the York River designated as a scenic and historic river which might have a significant impact on area businesses.

Michael Steen, the museum’s director of education, said that he is making a pitch to each of the five counties directly on the York that would benefit from a special state designation. The river, if so designated, would be specially marked on maps and social media that could enhance marketing opportunities for eco-tourism, he said.

Kayakers, canoeists and boaters might be attracted to a river designation, Steen said, as would birders, hikers and others who enjoy land uses. The proposal is called the York River Stewardship Project.

During February and March, Steen plans to speak to county officials in Gloucester, York, James City, King and Queen and New Kent counties. If the support of these counties is there, Steen said, a formal request for the scenic and historic river ...