Dignitaries Gather To Discuss Impact Of Garrett Trails

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 11, 2008

Garrett Trails recently celebrated the importance of recreational trails to the economic development and health/wellness of the county and its residents, as well as announcing the launch of a private nonprofit organization to continue the building of a network of trails.
Some of the dignitaries in attendance included Senator George Edwards; Commissioner Ernie Gregg; Robin Summerfield, a representative from Senator Ben Cardin’s office; Rodney Glotfelty, health officer; Duane Yoder, president of Garrett County Community Action, and Charlie Ross, president of the Chamber of Commerce. Senator Edwards spoke about the economic impact that the Allegheny Highlands Trail has had on small businesses near its route in Allegany County, while Mike Dreisbach, owner of Savage River Lodge, told a specific story about a couple who stayed at their lodge recently while biking the trail and who said they spent $10,000 on their trip.

Commissioner Gregg spoke about his long-term support for a network of trails in the county, the advisors from local and state agencies that the commissioners recently appointed to advise Garrett Trails, and the importance of trails
to local residents. Glotfelty concurred with Gregg, noting that access to inexpensive recreation for county residents was an important part of the Health Department’s Strategic Plan. Tom Carr, member of the Board of Education, picked up the theme of trails and local families, calling trails, "nature’s gymnasium" and encouraging all to use trails for physical activity.

Steve Green, president of Garrett Trails and co-owner of High Mountain Sports, wrapped up the program and thanked the many long time supporters and advocates who were in attendance. He also welcomed the newer volunteers to the recently launched Garrett Trails.

Garrett Trails is a private nonprofit organization that seeks to "develop a well-used network of outstanding quality trails that provide access to Garrett County’s historic, municipal, and environmental treasures and that link to trails outside the county."

The new organization is the evolution of a long-term Commissioner Task Force – The Recreational Trails Task Force – and Chamber of Commerce Committee. The new organization structure is intended to support the expansion of the private resources and volunteers working on trails in the county.

"Nothing that we do in the county will have as positive an impact on as many people for as little money as supporting the development of a network of trails,” noted Green, in an attempt to make the case for more trails and a more connected trail system. "Having recreational trails throughout the county has an economic development impact … and a health impact."

Garrett Trails is an example of public/private partnership and of "the synergy that can be created through passionate people," noted Paige Teegarden, a consultant assisting Garrett Trails. The organization has an advisory committee made up of representatives from many state and local agencies, including DNR, Garrett Roads, local and state planning departments, State Highway Administration, the Health Department, and Economic Development.

Local businesses are engaged with Garrett Trails through the fundraiser, the Taste of Garrett, and local hikers, bikers, skiers, and other business owners are involved as board members or members of the organization’s three committees – Trail Development, Mapping & Public Awareness, and Resource Development.

"Garrett Trails is as interdependent and connected as the network of trails we
seek to create," stated Tee-garden. "With the support of so many in the county we will succeed in creating a trail system the rival of any in the country."

Those seeking more information about Garrett Trails or who wish to volunteer should contact Tee-garden at GarrettTrails@-gmail.com.


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