CT OHV Recreation Workshop

[jmylie]

CT OHV Recreation Workshop

There was a 4 day workshop on OHV Recreation hosted by NOHVCC and the CT DEP.

I was able to attend 3 days (Wed, Thu & Fri). This was a great opportunity, as both state and federal departments had representatives on hand. Even MA sent 2 representatives to the workshop. In addition, the motor bike clubs were well represented. Noticeably absent were ATV clubs.

In summary, there is hope for the future, if we, the 4X4 community, get involved. Thomaston Dam in CT has had “legal” motor bike trails for over 30 years. NETRA (New England Trail Riders Assoc) regularly receives federal money to maintain and expand their trail system. We, the 4X4 community, have not received any money because we were not organized and have not applied.

What is available from the RTP (Recreational Trails Program):

CT – FY 2007 - $915,000

MA – FY 2007 - $1,227,000

NH – FY 2007 - $951,000

NY – FY 2007 - $1,800,000

NJ – FY 2007 - $1,200,000

VT – FY 207 - $881,000

That’s a lot of money on the table. As long as the land will be open to the public for recreation, we can apply. We can use the funds to purchase land, build or maintain trails and for education and safety.

The state of CT has made it known that they want to help. The state can not do it alone. It is up to us to get involved and carry the ball. They will support us but they will not do it for us. They are willing to apply for limited state funds to purchase property. We need to find the property, make sure it is suitable for our needs and do the miles of paperwork required. Not easy but not impossible.

The workshop included many success stories, from small “urban” parks to large multi use recreation areas. A group in TX, similar to COALT, went from an idea to 1800 acres for recreational trails in less than 2 years.

If you want Paragon (or 1 or 2 places) to be your only choice to wheel legally, ignore this. If you want quality wheeling closer to home, get involved, support COALT. We could have several OHV areas in New England. This would offer us choices, variety and insure we have a place to wheel in our backyard.


Joe Mylie