TOPEKA ? Gov. Sam Brownback will lead state officials and outdoor enthusiasts in a float trip along a stretch of the Kansas River.

Thursday morning’s canoe and kayak excursion is part of the administration’s effort to tout the recreational and economic value of the 173-mile river.

About 100 people were expected to participate, starting in the northeast Kansas town of Wamego and ending about 10 miles downstream at Belvue.

The Kansas River was designated in July 2012 as a National River Trail by the U.S. Department of Interior, one of about a dozen nationwide.

Brownback has been active as governor in events that encourage outdoor recreation throughout Kansas.