In a recent meeting held on October 6, 2025, the Hooksett Conservation Commission and Planning Board engaged in a significant discussion regarding the potential use of local trails for horseback riding. The conversation highlighted various concerns about the implications of allowing horses on trails, particularly regarding parking, waste management, and environmental impacts.
Commission members expressed apprehension about the logistics of accommodating horse riders, especially the need for adequate parking for horse trailers. One member pointed out that the current facilities at locations like Pond, Pacific Riverwalk Trail, and Pinnacle Park are not equipped to handle the influx of horse riders and their vehicles. The issue of waste management was also raised, with concerns about the potential for horse manure to exacerbate existing problems with dog waste on the trails. This raised questions about the overall cleanliness and usability of the trails for all visitors.
The discussion also touched on comparisons with other regions, where separate equestrian trails exist alongside biking and walking paths. This model was suggested as a possible solution to mitigate conflicts between different user groups. However, members noted that more information is needed before making a decision.
Ultimately, the board voted to classify horseback riding as a not-allowed use on the trails for the time being, while remaining open to revisiting the issue in the future. They emphasized the importance of gathering further insights from local organizations, such as Bear Paw Regional Greenways, to better understand how similar situations have been managed elsewhere.
In addition to the horseback riding discussion, the meeting included updates on a dredge and fill permit application for a property on Hackett Hill. The board acknowledged the need to review the application and provide comments within the state’s designated timeframe.
The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, but not before members expressed their commitment to further investigate the horseback riding proposal and its implications for the community. As Hooksett continues to navigate the balance between recreational use and environmental stewardship, these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of local trails.