Students in Dawson County may be able to add a whole new dimension to their learning experience if government leaders are able to secure grant dollars available through the state.

The Georgia Recreational Trail Grant would fund a wetlands trail from Rock Creek Park to the Etowah River, which would include observation decks for nature enthusiasts and outdoor classrooms.

The Dawson County Board of Commissioners voted 4-0, Nov. 18 to apply for the grant. School leaders have also voiced support.

Keith Porter, school superintendent, said the grant would be “educationally beneficial to students.”

Park and recreation director Lisa Henson said the trails could be used for “hiking, walking, jogging or for educational-type trips through the wetlands, where people could learn about the habitat.”

Along with the Dawson County School System, Etowah Water and Sewer Authority has signed on in support of the project, which is currently being called the Etowah Wetlands Trail.

Henson said the project would cost about $200,000, but 80 percent would be paid for with federal dollars. The rest of the project would be funded through in-kind contributions from the community.

Henson said the parks and recreation department won’t know until April if Dawson County gets approval for the grant.

“It would be a nice addition to our parks system,” she said.