The AHC is working to preserve the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program. If Congress does not take action this year this program could no longer be available to recreational riders.
Since its inception the RTP has provided approximately $677 million for thousands of state and local trail projects across the country, including many that benefit equestrians. RTP projects consist of construction, maintenance and restoration of trails and trail related facilities as well as the acquisition of easements or property for trails.
Although each state manages its own program, 30% of RTP funds must be spent on non-motorized projects like equestrian trails, 30% on motorized, and 40% percent on multiuse projects.
“The RTP is one of the few sources for federal funding of trail projects that are not on federal land. The program is a great resource for equestrians to fund projects in their state and local parks,” said AHC Legislative Director Ben Pendergrass.
In the coming months Congress is expected to begin work on the next 5 year highway bill. The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreational trail users is requesting that Congress not only re-authorized the RTP, but also increase funding for the program to $555 million to be spent over the five years of the bill.
The AHC urges recreational riders to contact their members of Congress to voice support for this program. “This is a great program and I hope equestrians will take the time to call or write their Representatives and Senators and let them know this program is important to the horse community,” said AHC President Jay Hickey.
Read more about equestrian land conservation.
Hmmm – with the Obama administration’s new emphasis on funding infrastructure improvements to create jobs, one would think this should be a no-brainer!
we need to save this program
cool. my dads backcounttry horseman club does this as well
There is no way that this group could just end. Years & years of hard work & dedication from small people & hardly anyone knew about it. We cant just let them disappear, we have to save them, thank them for all the hard work they’ve done, without them, we probably wouldnt have half the trails we have now!
I sure hope they continue it.