AHA Enews

The American Horse Council (AHC), in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreation trail users is requesting that Congress re-authorize the Recreation Trail Program (RTP) and increase funding for the program.

The RTP, which was last re-authorized in 2005 funds projects consisting 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.

It is important to remember that the RTP is one of the few sources for federal funding of trail projects that are not on federal land available to equestrians. The program has been a great resource for equestrians to fund projects in their state and local parks.

The AHC urges AHA and its members to contact Congress and voice support for this program. Let Congress know this program is important to the horse community. Contact Representatives and Senators with the same message. Grassroots support for this program is very important. For more information, including a sample letter, click here.


Federal Recreation Trail Program About to Expire, Help to Re-Authorize The American Horse Council (AHC), in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreation trail users is requesting that Congress re-authorize the Recreation Trail Program (RTP) and increase funding for the program. The RTP, which was last re-authorized in 2005 funds projects consisting 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. It is important to remember that the RTP is one of the few sources for federal funding of trail projects that are not on federal land available to equestrians. The program has been a great resource for equestrians to fund projects in their state and local parks. The AHC urges AHA and its members to contact Congress and voice support for this program. Let Congress know this program is important to the horse community. Contact Representatives and Senators with the same message. Grassroots support for this program is very important. For more information, including a sample letter, click here.


May 18, 2009