Recently, we have had some exciting events
for Vermont Trail Trotters.

1. Our first meeting was held at Whitman's Feed Store on June 20th, and included the following speakers:

• Lorraine Thurber gave a brief history of VTT and challenged the public with "where will you ride in 2020?"
• Eric Walker, a Green Mountain National Forest Representative, covered volunteer responsibilities in the maintenance of our newly acquired trail access and our ongoing partnership with GMNF. Please complete the downloadable volunteer paperwork and return by mail if you are interested. Call Lorraine Thurber for more information at (802) 442-8689 or email Lorraine_VTT@yahoo.com.
• Willene Martin, gave a basic trail safety discussion - please see enclosed pamphlet.
• Kelley Rich gave an overview of our upcoming Family Hunter Pace on October 3rd. This will be our first major fund raiser and such an event will directly help our organization grow. We are looking forward to a great turnout. The success of this event will be very dependent on volunteer help to prepare the route planned and the day of the pace as well. If you are planning on riding that is great! If you can lend a hand please sign up by downloading the pdf and mailing back or by calling Kelley Rich at (802) 442-9102 or email Kelley_VTT@yahoo.com.
• Dr. Julie Cornell, DVM, gave an informative and thorough deworming clinic.
• Dennis Dunn spoke about trail conditions and what to expect when riding in Somerset.

2. Our inaugural trail ride in Somerset was held on Sunday, June 21st. The dismal weather made for a less than desirable turnout, but those of us who went had a wet but good time! We have high hopes for upcoming rides. Please visit our Trails page for updates on trail conditions and upcoming rides.

3. We would also like to inform you about a change in our dues policy. Up until now, dues have been paid and recorded throughout the year. Beginning in January 2010, dues for the upcoming calendar year will be collected throughout the month of January. These minimal dues support printing costs, postage, advertising and promotions to spread the news about our grass roots organization. We will be mailing out renewal forms this December. Donations are always welcome and greatly appreciated anytime of the year.

Finally, for those of you who want to plan ahead, our fall meeting, which will take place after the hunter pace, will be held to discuss the creation of VTT club bylaws, election of VTT board members and allocation of funds from the hunter pace for future Trail Trotter projects.

Thank You and Happy Trails!

GM National Forest Trails are Now Open to Equine and Bike Users

RUTLAND, VT (Oct. 17, 2008) - Green Mountain National Forest officials are increasing opportunities for equestrian and mountain bike enthusiasts on some of the existing roads and trails throughout the Forest.

Within the Forest, north of Highway 4 in the towns of Goshen and Ripton, the Forest is designating multiple trails for equestrian use.

"These trails were designed and built for snowmobile, ski and mountain bike use and will easily accommodate horse use and will provide important links between existing trails for loop riding opportunities," said District Ranger Rob Hoelscher.

The following existing trails will be designated and managed for multiple uses including equestrian use:
1. Forest System Trail (FT) 143.12 from FSR 32 to FT 141 (0.1 miles)
2. FT 141 from FT 143.12 to FT 142 (0.2 miles)
3. FT 142 from FT 141 to FSR 67 (2.3 miles)
4. FT 278 from FSR 32 to FT 142 (1.1 miles)
5. FT 257 from FT 142 to FT 143.08 (3.0 miles)
6. FT 143.08 from FT 257 to FSR 32 (1.1 miles)
Downloadable map

Hoelscher also designated forest trail 181, in the town of Ripton, from State Rte 125 to Forest Service Road 92 to include mountain biking as an acceptable use.

In the Forest south of Highway 4, in the towns of Woodford, Glastenbury, Winhall and Stratton, the following existing trails will be designated and managed for multiple uses including equestrian:
1. FH6 Kelly Stand Road to FR320 (9.4 miles)
2. FT 381 from FST 385 to Forest System Road (FR)71 (8 miles)
3. FT385 from FT 382 to FR 71 (5.1 miles)
4. FT 386 from State Route 9 to FT 385 (2 miles)
5. FT 382 from State Route 9 to FT 385 (2 miles)
Downloadable map

Manchester District Ranger Alex Sienkiewicz also designated forest trail 385, or corridor 7, between Highway 11/30 to forest road 30 and forest trail 369, North Backwood Trail, from the Town of Stratton to forest road 341 as a multiple use trail suitable for mountain bike use.

"During the development of the Forest Plan, many members of the public felt that the Forest did not provide enough trail opportunities for mountain biking and horse back riding" said Sienkiewicz who noted that the Forest is working to provide a diverse range of high-quality sustainable recreation opportunities.

The Forest asked for comments from the public in March and received more than 600 responses from groups and individuals interested in new trail designation. Comments were used in making the decision.

No new trails are being constructed and all trails exceed standards for horse and mountain bike use. Trails will be closed to some uses during the wettest times of the year, typically in the Spring.

The Forest will be working on changing trailhead signs to indicate the designation of the new uses and will be partnering with local organizations to assist with maintenance.

For more information please visit the Forest website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/greenmountain/htm/greenmountain/g_home.htm

New Trail Riding Group Formed