There is created the Francis Marion Trail Commission for the purpose of establishing a heritage and tourism trail to be designated as the Francis Marion Trail. The commission is authorized to solicit and raise funds for the trail from public or private sources, and, in coordination with the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, to designate the location and route of the trail to be included in the department’s State Trail System. The commission is empowered and directed to raise private funds, to solicit and receive private and public grants, and to receive gifts to carry out the purpose for which the commission is created. If necessary for proper funding to establish the trail, the commission may recommend an appropriation for the trail. The Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism shall provide the necessary staff and assistance to the commission. After the trail is established, the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism must maintain the trail as part of the State Trail System; however, the commission shall continue to raise public and private funds to assist in maintaining the trail.