An attempt to boost the economy of the North Country by drawing tourists to a 1,000-mile network of ATV trails is getting a boost itself as the federal government is providing about $152,000.
“This is a tremendous shot in the arm for the 'Ride the Wilds' marketing program,” said Harry Brown, the president of New Hampshire Off Highway Vehicle Association.
The three-year grant comes from a United States Department of Agriculture program to help economic development in rural areas, said Cathy Conway, an official for the Northern Community Investment Corporation which worked to secure the money.
Ride the Wilds, which is a volunteer effort, will now be trying to figure out how to promote the trail network in other states and help local businesses take advantage of the increase in tourism, said Brown.
The grant covers three years.
