Gov. Scott announces nearly $22 million investment in outdoor recreation

As Gov. Phil Scott outlined in his annual Budget Address on Tuesday, outdoor recreation is going to see some major investment in the coming year. “It’s more than $20 million, that’s huge!” said Kelly Ault, executive director of the Vermont Outdoor Business Alliance, which counts as members businesses such as  Orvis, Darn Tough, Burton, Outdoor Gear Exchange and many others. Thanks to federal economic relief for COVID-19, the state saw an unexpected surplus this past year of $210 million. The proposed funds … (read more)

BRISTOL — Growing up in Bristol, Chris Morrissey got into BMX culture — ramps, half pipes — and tinkering with bikes. “We used to order parts from BMX magazines,” Morrissey told the Independent. “And we would get really excited when we saw the UPS truck d … (read more)

VERMONT — “Everyone is just glad to be out and playing golf,” said Derrick Cram, business manager of the Ralph Myhre Golf Course in Middlebury on a sunny afternoon this week. For many it was the first time out this season. And, of course, it was not becau … (read more)

Five p.m. was rolling up on me and I needed to get outside. I’d been sitting at my computer all day, working remotely — preparing remote lectures for my classes, and holding remote office hours. I’ve learned more about Zoom teleconferencing than I ever wa … (read more)

For a good long time it looked as if outdoor recreation — skinning, hiking and camping — would be our savior during COVID-19. This week, things look different. Uphill skiing has been shut down at resorts around the state and popular backcountry destinatio … (read more)

VERMONT — With its four seasons, mountains, rivers, lakes and millions of acres of forests and fields, Vermont is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts locally and beyond. The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation and the Center for Rural St … (read more)