Maine's trails are a critical component of the outdoor recreation industry, contributing $3.3 billion to the state's economy in 2022. Trails also support physical and mental health, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote environmental stewardship. However, many trails are in need of maintenance due to increased use and damage from severe weather events. The Maine Trails Coalition and other organizations support the Maine Trails Bond, which would authorize $30 million over four years for trail design, development, and maintenance. Over 520 organizations, businesses, and towns have urged lawmakers to approve the bond, which will be on the November ballot. Passing the bond will help make Maine a national leader in trails and improve the state's overall quality of life [8a4435c9].
The Maine Trails Coalition is a group of organizations and individuals dedicated to promoting and improving trails in Maine. They advocate for increased funding and support for trail design, development, and maintenance [8a4435c9].
U.S. Sen. Maggie Hassan held a discussion with leaders on the role of outdoor recreation in New Hampshire's economy. Outdoor recreation contributes over $3 billion annually and provides 31,000 jobs in the state. The discussion took place at AMC Camp Dodge Trails Center in Gorham, with six panelists in attendance. The panelists included Nate Harvey and Meghan Moody Schwartz from Great Glen, Janel Lawton from the N.H. Office of Outdoor Recreation, Tyler Ray from Granite Outdoor Alliance, Chris Thayer from Appalachian Mountain Club, and Stanley Carte from the White Mountain National Forest [99d17049] [3d9b58e6].
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable's latest report, 'Recreation Funding in America: Current Results and Future Insights,' highlights the challenges and opportunities for the outdoor recreation economy. The report raises the question of how to collectively fund a sustainable and quality outdoors experience. The future of outdoor recreation funding in America is at risk [d0181074].