Program shares cost of OHV trails

Trail development groups have until March 7 to apply for the next round of funding assistance available under the Off-highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund.

Trail projects can receive up to 50 per cent of a project's total cost, usually up to $50,000, from the infrastructure fund, which is financed by off-highway vehicle owners and administered by the Off-highway Vehicle Ministerial Advisory Committee.

Each year when off-highway vehicle owners register vehicles, they contribute $40 toward the fund. Only those owners who contribute to the fund are permitted to use the trails.

"By investing in the infrastructure fund, owners are investing in the future acceptance and sustainability of the sport," said Laurie Cranton, chair of the Off-highway Vehicle Ministerial Advisory Committee.

"We have already forwarded $809,837 under this program to multi-use, snowmobile and off-highway trail groups since May of 2007. As groups become more familiar with the process, we are looking forward to receiving even more applications, and an expanded number of trails for use."

To be eligible for cost-shared funding, projects must meet certain conditions, like avoiding vulnerable areas and contributing to environmental protection, making the most of existing infrastructure, and encouraging shared use.

More information and the application for the Off-highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund Trails Program can be found on the website at www.gov.ns.ca .