TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas officials say a second state waterway deserves a federal designation that is aimed at encouraging recreation.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks said in a news release Thursday that it wants the Great Bend to Oklahoma border stretch of the Arkansas River added to the National Water Trails system. The Kansas River received the designation in 2012. It encourages state, local and federal governments to work together to increase water recreation, promote tourism and help local economies.

Department Secretary Robin Jennison said in a written statement that the designation would “help draw tourists.” He said the Kansas and Arkansas river “offer some really great opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy parts of the state that are often overlooked.”