The Longleaf Trace is governed by the Pearl & Leaf Rivers Rails to Trails Recreational District Board of Directors as provided for by the Mississippi State Legislature, Section 55-25-1 et. seq, Mississippi code of 1972 as annotated, which created authority for rails to trails recreational districts. The “District” is governed by a Board of Directors, one each from each of its seven entities, which includes the Counties of Forrest, Jefferson Davis, and Lamar, and the municipalities of Bassfield, Hattiesburg, Prentiss, and Sumrall. The stated mission of the “District” is to create economic benefits while providing multiple recreational opportunities and an improved quality of life for its citizens and the State of Mississippi.

The Pearl & Leaf Rivers Rails-to-Trails Recreational District is principally funded by a one-fourth (¼) mill tax on all properties of its member political subdivisions.  Additional funding through grants from the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, & Parks and Federal Transportation Alternative Program, donations, adoptions, sponsorships, bike rentals, and the sale of logo items.