The Recreational Trails Program is a very important program that provides funding for outdoor recreational opportunities, including horseback riding and driving. Money and program are currently operated by the Federal Highway Administration and state Transportation departments. See http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/rectrails/

This program is in jeopardy, as the Transportation Secretary’s current reform plan does not support recreational trails. If you care about the trails and greenways that you ride, hike or bike, you should be interested in this issue. RTP funds are available to local, state and federal; land managers for projects that might not otherwise be funded. When the debate begins on Capital Hill in 2009, let your representatives and congressional candidates know that you support recreational trails. And be sure to take the time to learn more.

Linked are letters to elected officials

• The Honorable Harry Reid and The Honorable Mitch McConnell – United States Senate
• The Honorable Nancy Pelosi and  The Honorable John Boehner – Speaker of the House of Representatives  and  U.S. House of Representatives
• The Honorable Barack Obama – President-elect of the United States

Continuance of the RTP is critical for all Americans.. Please pass these on to fellow outdoorsmen and contact your elected officials. Thank you in advance for your attention to this important matter.

Best regards, Cynthia Higgs Equestrian Partners Coordinator Equestrian Land Conservation Resource 4037 Iron Works Parkway, Suite 120 Lexington KY 40511 (859) 455-8383 -Ph (859) 455-8381 -Fxchiggs@elcr.org