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Committee Hears HB 127, Proposal to Extend OHRV Season on Connecticut River Headwaters
Summary
The committee considered HB 127, which would extend through Columbus Day two short trail segments — about 10.5 miles in total — on the Connecticut River Headwaters so OHRVs can link Pittsburg and neighboring towns to the broader regional trail network.
The House Resources, Recreation and Development Committee heard testimony on HB 127, which would keep two sections (about 10.5 miles total) of OHRV trail on the Connecticut River Headwaters open through Columbus Day instead of closing them on Sept. 30.
Representative (prime sponsor) told the committee the request is intended to align a short headwaters segment with neighboring private trail systems and the broader regional convention that most North Country trails close on Columbus Day. “All we’re asking is just keep it open that next 8 to 13 days,” the sponsor told the committee, saying the change would allow riders to traverse from destination towns such as Pittsburg to Berlin and support linked businesses.
Why it matters: testimony centered on economics, landowner rights and the management obligations that accompany conserved public land. Supporters argued the extension provides measurable tourism revenues to rural businesses and lodging; DNCR and other custodial agencies urged any seasonal change follow the conservation‑easement and citizen‑advisory review set out for the headwaters property.
Economic claims and local…
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